This topic is adapted from the PursueGOD Video YouTube channel.
Money can either be something that adds value to our lives or it can wreak havoc on us.. Paula shares some practical advice on how we should view our money so that it works for us, not against us.
[Related: How to Become a Successful Money Manager]
Video Highlights:
- Paula highlights some common reasons people use who don’t give charitably. The first is “I don’t have any.” Many people just don’t feel like they have anything extra to give away. The second is “I give of my time instead.” This person is willing to sacrifice time in serving but doesn’t view money that same way. The third is “Does the amount I can give really make a difference?” In other words, does the church or organization really need their little gift?
- For Paula, she doesn’t view the money she earns as her money. It all comes from God so she is really just a manager of his money. This changes her view on how she spends it. Since God has been so generous to her, she wants to be generous also.
- There are three principles to consider when you think about money, specifically your charitable giving. You should make your giving a regular thing so it becomes a habit. You should give proportionately to your own earnings. It’s not about comparing yourself to someone else’s ability, it’s about giving an amount that works in your budget. You should be sacrificial in your giving. You should choose to give an amount that stretches you just enough that it feels like a sacrifice.
In Matthew 6:21, Jesus explains that our view of money shapes how we live and how we live shows what we really care about. Instead of viewing money as the means to acquiring our toys and fun, we should remember that it’s really God’s money and we should be mindful of how we spend it.
[Related: How Should Christians Spend Money on Entertainment and Leisure?]
Discussion Questions:
- Watch the video together or invite someone to summarize the topic.
- What is your initial reaction to this video? Do you disagree with any of it? What jumped out at you?
- In your opinion, why is money a complicated issue for many people? Describe your view on money.
- Share a time someone has been generous to you. How did that impact you? Share a time you’ve been generous toward someone else. How did that impact you?
- Of the three excuses, with which one do you most identify? Explain.
- How does it change your perspective if you view your money as God’s money?
- Review the three principles for giving. How does each one challenge you? Which is or will be hardest for you? Explain.
- Read Matthew 6:21. Put this verse into your own words. Based on your current spending habits, what does it say about what you treasure most? How can you make some adjustments to your current budget to make room for charitable giving?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
