Faithful in Every Area: Live with Open Hands
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Scripture
Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.”
Mark 12:42-44 NKJV
Thoughts for the Day
When finances are difficult, generosity can seem like something we should postpone. We may think, “When I have more, then I will give.”
Jesus showed us something very different through the poor widow. Others gave from their abundance, but she gave sacrificially. Jesus noticed not simply the amount she gave but the heart behind her gift.
Generosity is not reserved for wealthy people.
Giving changes our relationship with money because it reminds us that money is a resource entrusted to us, not something that should control us. God is a giver, and as His character develops within us, generosity becomes part of who we are.
Giving also moves our attention away from ourselves. Financial struggles can cause our world to become very small. We think constantly about what we need, what we owe, and what we do not have. Generosity reminds us that God can still use us to bless someone else.
That does not mean ignoring responsibilities or giving recklessly. Biblical stewardship includes wisdom. But wise stewardship and generosity belong together.
Financial freedom is about more than having enough for ourselves. God wants us to become people who can contribute, serve, and bless others. As He provides and we become stronger financially, our capacity to give can grow as well.
An open hand is able to give—and it is also able to receive what God chooses to place in it.
Consider This . . .
Has financial pressure caused you to hold tightly to everything you have? Consider whether fear has begun controlling your attitude toward generosity. Giving does not have to begin with a large amount. It begins with a willing heart. Ask God how He wants generosity to be expressed through your life. It may involve giving financially, helping someone with a practical need, sharing something you own, or using your time and abilities to serve another person. Then consider a bigger question: What is the purpose of financial freedom for you? Is it simply to have more, or could God be leading you toward greater freedom so you can become more generous and useful in His kingdom? Ask Him to develop a heart that manages wisely, saves responsibly, and still lives with open hands.
Prayer
Lord, everything I have ultimately comes from You. Keep fear and selfishness from controlling my heart. Teach me to manage wisely and give generously. Use what You have entrusted to me to bless others and advance Your purposes.
In Jesus’ name…
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