“If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously.”
Romans 12:7-8
The story of the widow’s offering in Mark 12 provides a wonderful example of trusting God with the material things He’s given us. In Jesus’ time, widows were particularly vulnerable and likely did not have resources to tap into or a safety net to fall back on. By giving everything she had, the widow fully trusted God. Jesus pointed out to His disciples—and to us—the beauty of giving out of our poverty rather than out of our wealth.
Whenever we feel like our time, finances, and abilities are limited, we tend to hold on tightly to what we do have. But trusting God can help us break from this pattern and mindset.
In The Treasure Principle (2001), Randy Alcorn addresses validating hoarding in tough times: “God says, ‘Trust me in this [giving to God beyond our abilities] and watch me provide’ (see Malachi 3:10). By not telling people about giving, we rob them of the joy of seeing His provision.” This applies not only to trusting in God in our perceived financial limitations, but also in our limitations of time and ability.
Whenever we feel like our time, finances, and abilities are limited, we tend to hold on tightly to what we do have. But trusting God can help us break from this pattern and mindset.
In The Treasure Principle (2001), Randy Alcorn addresses validating hoarding in tough times: “God says, ‘Trust me in this [giving to God beyond our abilities] and watch me provide’ (see Malachi 3:10). By not telling people about giving, we rob them of the joy of seeing His provision.” This applies not only to trusting in God in our perceived financial limitations, but also in our limitations of time and ability.
Scripture Focus
Mark 12:41-44
Insight
Even when our money, time, and abilities are limited, we can entrust what we have to God to bring Him glory.
Bible In A Year
- 2 Samuel 17-18
- Psalm 144
- 1 Thessalonians 5
