King Jesus and the Queen City

Generous living is essential to living an abundant life in Christ. Jesus speaks directly about generosity in Matthew 6:1-4. He gives us freedom to practice our righteousness, but asks that we do our best to be invisible so that His name is made famous instead of our own. Living this way is not a suggestion. Jesus assumes that we will give when He begins verse 2 with the word, WHEN.

The word picture that Jesus uses to teach us about living generously is that of the theater. He describes the Pharisees as hypocrites, or actors on a stage. The Pharisees cared more about being noticed and “looking the part” than they did about actually giving their lives away to those in need.

Too many times we live our lives like we are on stage looking for the applause of man. We wear masks that cover up our insecurities about what others will think of us. If we are in true community, we live open and free in Christ, working out our salvation. We must be careful not to look to man’s approval, although it often is more tangible and immediate than that of God’s. Remember, man’s approval is temporary. We must remember to live for God’s glory!

The way we give generously is through God’s grace. We must remember that ALL we have is from God. We need to strive to keep our eyes fixed on Him, and receive blessings from Him that we can pass on to others. If you give out of guilt, it will wear out quickly! Remember, our salvation is a result of God’s generosity. We were (and are) so needy without Christ.

Ephesians 2:4-6 challenges us to show mercy. Mercy moves us to make a difference. When we give generously, we have the opportunity to trust and God has the opportunity to show off!

Questions to discuss as a family today

1. Would others describe you as generous? Why?

2. How are you currently living generously to bring glory to God?

3. Are you being obedient to give God the tithe? If not, what steps will you take to get that area of your life in order?  

Prayer

Praise God for His mercy and generosity towards you. Thank Him for being merciful and sending Jesus to give salvation. Be specific as you thank Him for the blessings in your life, and let Him know that you know that all you have comes from Him. Confess where you wear a mask and look for man’s approval over God’s, and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you areas that you might not see that you wear a mask. Be open with God about your finances, and ask Him to grow your faith in the tithe. Commit to God how you will be faithful with your finances. Thank Him for providing for you.