They gathered us into a small conference room, the weight of surfacing rumors hovered as a thick cloud. Layoffs. While the news sunk like an anchor to the bottom of my stomach, I had an unknown peace of mind. A young single mom – with hope.
Only six months earlier, I had given my life to Christ. Filled with the joy of a prison cell swung wide open, I knew if He could free me from that bottomless pit, He could do anything. And so, I chose to tithe on the little pension and unemployment I received. One jobless month turned to six, but my faith in His ability didn’t waiver.
Bills rolled in for less than expected. Money left anonymously in my mailbox. Sales on groceries were better than I remembered. God moved heaven and earth to show me that not only was He my deliverer but also my provider.
So why do I share this story with you? Because, while I currently face some of the same financial hardships today, my views and fears have, at times, been very different.
Lack of trust has reared its ugly head as medical and household bills add up and work slows down. Peace drifts in the sea of unknowns, as God seems to close doors on avenues I see as ways out. Much further along in my walk, one would think things would be different.
So far removed from that story of His faithfulness and with so much more to lose, I struggle to trust.
And yet, I think back on that time and remember the deep peace of unwavering trust. I recall the strength I gained every time I put my small tithe into the passing offering plate, and I wonder why I now have moments of complete weakness. And it struck me I have become dependent upon money. I have fallen in love with what it can buy, where it can take me, and the peace of security it provides. A dependency not meant for money, but rather God.
Of the 2000 plus teachings and parables on money and wealth in the Bible, the story of the poor old widow and the rich young ruler stands stories above the rest. Two stories on complete opposite ends of the spectrum with clashing lifestyles and opposing views.
Dressed in the soiled rags of yesterday, she approaches the box. Reaching into her satchel, she takes two small coins and tosses them into the treasury. The tiny ping sounded very different than the thuds of previous offerings. Poor in clothing but rich in faith, she gave all she had.
Truly I tell you, this poor widow has given by far the largest offering today. All these others made offerings they’ll never miss; she gave extravagantly what she couldn’t afford – she gave her all!” (Mark 12:41-44 MSG)
While many around gave for outward applause, she gave from an inward adoration. Choosing to seek His kingdom first, she found it better to give than receive. With a heart set on Him and open hands, she sacrificially gave God her very little – her all. Security for her next meal didn’t reside in the two small coins but rather a big God who never failed to provide for her needs. God was her treasure, and she trusted Him.
Her humble sacrifice didn’t go unnoticed. The One who gave up His riches to become poor for us saw her selfless act and lifted her up before others. He saw her surrender, and, He sees yours. He sees the security of a corporate job you left to raise children up in the ways of the Lord. The demotion you took required fewer hours and travel. He knows the times you’ve given of yourself until you had nothing left to give. Even when no one else noticed, He did.
This was his last chance. Dressed in fine clothes, he ran to Him, falling on his knees. “What must I do to inherit eternal life? I’ve kept all the commands. I love my neighbor. I don’t steal or lie. I’ve always honored my parents. From a boy, I’ve kept them all!”
Jesus’ eyes melt with compassion, and a soft smile spreads across his face as He asks for the one thing never addressed – the first and greatest command – to love God and have no other idol. “One thing you lack,” He said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” The man’s once exciting face drooped with sadness as he turned away to leave. Certainly, he couldn’t depart with his vast wealth. (Mark 10:21-22)
Secure in his self-sufficient identity, his money robed him with the finer things of life but robbed him of eternal things. Money was his treasure, a shelter, providing everything he needed or desired. Unable to release his earthly fortune, he ran to Christ only to turn away, unsatisfied with His answer. The deceitfulness of wealth choked the Word of life. With a heart trusting in the idol of his income, he walked away from an eternal inheritance for earthly riches that would fade. Before we can give of ourselves, we must first receive from God.
Do you relate to one story more than the other? Honestly, I can see myself in both. I’ve made bold decisions to store up treasures in heaven, holding the things of this world loosely. On the other hand, I’ve also run to God only to be dissatisfied with the answer, choosing to keep the reins of my desires tight. And I can’t help but wonder how many blessings I’ve forfeited because of misplaced trust in the treasure rather than the Treasurer.
Grab the free “At The Crossroads” workbook as we dive into “Heavenly Finances – Gaining A Heavenly Perspective On Earthly Resources.”
I have found myself at times thinking, “How would I respond if my husband lost his job?” Or, honestly, even thinking if he got a job he loved more but paid less. And I find myself feeling worried when I think about it. It was truly humbling to read this, because it reminded me I need to give this to God again and again, knowing He will provide what we need, no matter the circumstance! Even if that doesn’t look like what the world thinks we need. Thanks for sharing this truth!
You are so welcome, Emily! I can’t say I haven’t thought about my husband losing his job either. I try to remind myself that if I seek first His kingdom and lean not on my understanding but His, He’ll do the rest. Sometimes it’s easier than others. When I do, I see Him move mountains only the Mountain Mover can!
Esther,
I too am going through a deeper level of trust in the area of finances than I ever have before. Choosing to trust Him daily and walk confidently ahead is what’s keeping me sane 🙂 So not easy. Thanks for your encouragement. Paying for breakthrough and provision in abundance to do His work.
Much love,
~Sherry Stahl
xoxo
Oh, Sherry, thank you so much!!! It’s really not easy – AT ALL – but I know there is a deeper lesson He’s wanting to teach and a wider life of victory over fear in both of our lives!! Hugs to you as you travel confidently ahead, eyes fixed on Him!!
This is such an important topic that few people write on, Esther, so I’m glad you are! I know how scary it can be when those medical bills roll in. May the Lord provide!
Thank you so much, Betsy!!! It’s a scary topic but He does always provide! Blessings!!
Am I missing the link to the workbook? Your materials are always so awesome
Hi Esther, is this workbook still available please?
Hi Diana! I’ve added you to the email list, so you should receive an email shortly with all of the information you need to access the freebies. It might end up in your spam folder just in case you don’t see it. Hope you enjoy!!