- 1 Tim 6:17
17 Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.
Things to avoid: Arrogance & Migration of hope – Things to pursue: putting hope in God (Don’t trust in riches, but in Him who richly provides)
- 1 Tim 6:18
18 Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. 19 By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.
BE GENEROUS…but what does that mean?
“3P” Giving = Priority – Percentage – Progressive
- Mark 12:41-44
41 Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. 42 Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins.
43 Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. 44 For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.
PRE-DECIDE – HOW MUCH and to WHO
DO GOOD in the organizations that you GIVE TO – This is about YOUR heart
- 2 Corinthians 9:7
7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”
If you’ve been giving the same percentage for most of your life, consider raising it. Life is not stagnant. It’s progressive in nature. And your giving should be progressive too.
Planning is the key to managing the side effects of wealth.