How much?

1 Timothy 6:10-11 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

Most western worlders don’t like to talk about their finances but it never ceases to amaze me how open Israelis are about them. It’s commonplace to ask someone how much they make or how much they paid for their house or car. People do it all the time, even total strangers! So I’m gonna jump on the band wagon and be bold because the subject has been on my heart lately.

New York City’s Mayor David N. Dinkins, when urged by Manhattan officials to buy some property thought to be an “extraordinary opportunity for the city,” said: “If they’re selling elephants two for a quarter, that’s a great bargain. But only if you have a quarter–and only if you need elephants.”

How many of us are guilty of spending unwisely – and not allowing the Lord to reign over our spending habits? While God doesn’t condemn the possession of goods and money, He does speak against hoarding, coveting, selfishness, stealing, dishonesty, and even mismanagement of finances.

I believe the Lord wants to pour out a financial blessing upon us today. But have we shown Him that we are trustworthy to use it in a manner pleasing to Him?

Let’s put our finances and spending before the Lord today and ask Him to be Lord over them all. God has great plans for us ahead if we will only lay ourselves down!