FINDING JOY WITH "LESS"...
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24
READING: MATTHEW 6:1-4
MORNING
Start the morning with prayer, “God, show me how you would have me take a step to be more generous with my time, speech, talent, or money.” Journal any thoughts that come to you as you listen.
EVENING
Read Matthew 6:1-4
Being generous is something we all say we want to do. Yet, how often do we find ourselves being generous? When did you last take time out of your day to help someone, without expecting a reward or gain for yourself? When did you last give your money freely to someone who needed it with zero expectation that it would return to you?
This is the idea that Jesus is calling His disciples to in Matthew 6. When you give, help, or provide generously to those in need you do so with no expectation of accolade or praise. This is in direct conflict with our culture today just as it was to those Jesus was speaking to. We are taught that we have to “earn our keep” or “flaunt our accomplishments” to get ahead. With Jesus, it’s not about getting ahead. It is about caring deeply for those around you so that they too might know the goodness of the Father.
Being generous is something we all say we want to do. Yet, how often do we find ourselves being generous? When did you last take time out of your day to help someone, without expecting a reward or gain for yourself? When did you last give your money freely to someone who needed it with zero expectation that it would return to you?
This is the idea that Jesus is calling His disciples to in Matthew 6. When you give, help, or provide generously to those in need you do so with no expectation of accolade or praise. This is in direct conflict with our culture today just as it was to those Jesus was speaking to. We are taught that we have to “earn our keep” or “flaunt our accomplishments” to get ahead. With Jesus, it’s not about getting ahead. It is about caring deeply for those around you so that they too might know the goodness of the Father.
REFLECTION
Take a few moments to pray, honestly reflect, and journal on the following questions:
- How do I really define "generosity"? What does it mean to have joy with less?
- What’s shaping my view of what generosity is—society, social media, past experiences, or something else?
- Have I been successful in achieving what I perceive to be a joyful giver?
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