+DEV+ Priorities

Date: May 7, 2012 10:55 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Priorities

Priorities

"Then the word of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai: 'Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?'"  (Haggai 1:3-4)
Scripture Focus: Haggai 1:1-15

In what areas do you cut back when money is tight? Dining out? Movies? Vacations? While some financial obligations like rent or mortgage payments are fixed, we may reduce other expenses and spending to ensure that we make ends meet.

The work of the Lord does not stop during economic slumps. More people turn to the church for help with food, bills, or counseling when times are tough. Yet, giving to the church is often one of the first items to drop from the family budget.

After the Persians allowed the Israelites to return to their land, the people were more concerned with building their own homes than with rebuilding the temple. God rebuked their priorities and challenged them to put Him first.

We, too, may allow the economy, to affect our giving to build Christ's kingdom. When we fail to trust God's care, we cheat ourselves out of seeing Him meet our needs as only He can. Since our greatest need has already been met in Jesus, we can trust Him to see us through.

Insight: How does your financial situation affect your giving? Give God what is His, then rest in his care as you work for his kingdom.