There is a reason that the word “self” is found in the word “selfish.” You see, when we are selfish, we are solely focused on ourselves. Selfishness leads us to think that the world truly revolves around us and our needs. When we are selfish, our finances reflect that selfishness. Selfishness leads us to use our finances to build up our own shaky kingdoms. A far, far better way of living is stewarding the Kingdom of God, which will last forever.
During His ministry on earth, Jesus encouraged His followers and the crowds who listened to Him not to build up earthly treasures, as He told a parable in Luke 12. This parable was taught in response to a request someone in the crowd asked Jesus while He was teaching one day. We studied this interaction in our Bible study yesterday. A man called out to Jesus and said, “Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father’s estate with me” (verse 13). Instead of granting his request, Jesus issued a warning: “Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own” (verse 15). Next, Jesus told a parable. This parable was about a rich farmer whose farm “produced fine crops” (verse 16). His crop was so bountiful that he decided to “tear down [his] barns and build bigger ones” (verse 18). He said to himself, “Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods” (verse 18). His plan was to “take it easy” and retire (verse 19). Here is where the story gets interesting and convicting. Jesus said that “God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’” (verse 20). This man could have used his wealth to build the kingdom of God, but instead, he was building up his own little, shaky kingdom. After finishing his story, Jesus summarized the message behind His story: “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God” (verse 21). Far greater than seeking riches and the things that money can buy is to have a rich relationship with God and to steward our resources to build the kingdom of God, which is eternal and unshakable.
Whose kingdom are you seeking to build today: the kingdom of God or your own? Only God’s kingdom will last forever. Stewarding our finances well to build God’s kingdom will always be the wise choice. As the missionary Jim Elliot said, “He is no fool who gives what we cannot keep to gain what we cannot lose.”
How can you steward your finances to build the kingdom of God? If you do not have a regular practice of tithing, maybe you can make tithing a regular habit in your life. Maybe you can purchase items and donate them to Community Connect, one of our incredible ministries that seeks to bring needed food, clothing, and personal care items to Albuquerque neighborhoods. Whatever it looks like for you, take a step toward stewarding your finances in such a way that you build the kingdom of God.
Prayer Prompt: Use this prompt to guide you as you pray.
16 Then he told them a story: “A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. 17 He said to himself, ‘What should I do? I don’t have room for all my crops.’ 18 Then he said, ‘I know! I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. 19 And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!”’
20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’
21 “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.”
Teaching about Money and Possessions
22 Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. 23 For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. 24 Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! 25 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? 26 And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?
27 “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 28 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?
29 “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. 30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. 31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.
32 “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.
33 “Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it. 34 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
