Better Words, Better Actions: PraiseLive's 30 Day DevotionalSample

I remember as a member of my youth group in Pennsylvania, we were given the assignment of collecting money for a nonprofit organization that helped vulnerable children around the world.  We went door-to-door in this suburban Philadelphia neighborhood, asking people if they could make a donation.  Any amount would do.   My group was assigned two areas - an upper middle class and a more impoverished neighborhood.   To my surprise, about one-fourth of the people in the upper-middle-class neighborhood made a donation, but in the more impoverished area - almost every house we went to gave something! 

In this true-life story, Jesus observes rich people giving small amounts.  Was it a public display of giving so they would look kind to others?  Whereas this sweet woman gave what seemed to be a smaller amount, but Jesus knowing her financial situation knew it was a generous gift.   

The more we have riches, the more they can have us.  For some, the greed of having more never stops.  What is enough?  We may say true joy is found in giving, but do we practice that?

I don’t know about the inside of the homes in that suburban Philadelphia neighborhood, but I can tell you God’s promises are true for everyone.  He promises when we give, we have joy.   I think the more impoverished homes in this neighborhood were rich with joy! When we give, we acknowledge God is our source, and He owns it all.  We are stewards of whatever we possess, and when we give, we live our life to the fullest.  

Reflection Question: 

What holds me back from giving?  Is there a need I should be giving to?

Praise + Prayer: 

God, I thank you that you own it all.  I know I can trust you for everything, including my finances.  Forgive me for holding on to them too tightly.  I open up my hands and say, Lord, work through me,  In Jesus' name.  Amen. 

Action Idea:

Ask God to put on your heart a ministry or person in need, and then, before you talk yourself out of it, make a gift - anonymously - and see what God does!