Costs Something

Southeast Christian Church

Jan 20, 2023

Jesus defines more, not by the sum, but by the sacrifice. The sacrifice is what demonstrates love and commitment. You've probably heard the saying: Sacrifice is giving up something you love for something you love more. God owns everything, and he multiplies your sacrifice in ways that are supernatural and beyond our understanding.

James 5:1-3 warns those who have a mindset of storing up money and treasures while here on earth: “Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire.” Scripture turns what culture says upside down and says that while you need to save, you need to take care of your family, and you need to be good stewards of what God has entrusted you, don't let your unused resources testify against you on the day of judgment. God entrusted you to impact this world for the Gospel and to prepare the world for the return of Jesus with some of his resources.

Another way to think about this is that sacrifice is giving up something now for what you will gain later. And that's why Jesus says it's beautiful. Jesus knows that what the widow does through the generosity she expresses is building up for herself treasures in Heaven that she will enjoy later. That's why Jesus celebrates her offering, because he knows the rate of return and what she does now will be rewarded in eternity. This simple woman with a simple act of obedience is held up by Jesus as an example of what generosity looks like for the disciples and the rest of the crowd.

Out of gratitude for his grace in your life, you are called to be faithful with what he's entrusted to you. When we all do that together as believers, it is incredible how God blesses it and the impact that we're able to have. Be faithful, be grateful, and be an intentional giver.

Reflection/Discussion Question: Will the money and resources that God has entrusted to you testify for or against you on judgment day?

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