"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment," (I Timothy 6:17 NIV).
God Owns it All!
We look at our financial situation with a standard of living in mind to make us happy. We pursue financial goals using biblical principles. We tithe, give, stick to a budget, and stay out of debt so that we can enjoy an affluent lifestyle. When we struggle financially, we are surprised and, often, angry.
God has a different perspective, being more concerned about our character than our comfort. He is forming Christ in us. In His eyes, everything belongs to Him and He can do as He chooses. We belong to Him, our money belongs to Him, and our stuff belongs to Him. His heart is to use these things for His glory.
God's heart is also to bless us! He gives us things to richly enjoy, lavishing us with good gifts! He has the freedom to do what is best in our lives, without asking our permission. Our family's standard of living has remained consistent throughout our married life while our income has varied greatly. When there is more month at the end of the money, the Lord provides supernaturally.
God Wants it All!
Extravagant living begins with surrender. Acknowledge that everything you are and everything you own is His. He doesn’t not want competition in your heart. Fully surrender to His Lordship!
Extravagant living is not what we have, but what is in our hearts. A surrendered heart bubbles with joy.
God is More than Faithful!
God Owns it All!
We look at our financial situation with a standard of living in mind to make us happy. We pursue financial goals using biblical principles. We tithe, give, stick to a budget, and stay out of debt so that we can enjoy an affluent lifestyle. When we struggle financially, we are surprised and, often, angry.
God has a different perspective, being more concerned about our character than our comfort. He is forming Christ in us. In His eyes, everything belongs to Him and He can do as He chooses. We belong to Him, our money belongs to Him, and our stuff belongs to Him. His heart is to use these things for His glory.
God's heart is also to bless us! He gives us things to richly enjoy, lavishing us with good gifts! He has the freedom to do what is best in our lives, without asking our permission. Our family's standard of living has remained consistent throughout our married life while our income has varied greatly. When there is more month at the end of the money, the Lord provides supernaturally.
God Wants it All!
Extravagant living begins with surrender. Acknowledge that everything you are and everything you own is His. He doesn’t not want competition in your heart. Fully surrender to His Lordship!
Extravagant living is not what we have, but what is in our hearts. A surrendered heart bubbles with joy.
God is More than Faithful!
God only promises to provide food and clothing, encouraging us to be content with that provision. But, after 32 years of reading the Bible and walking with Jesus, I know His ways. He is lavish in His provisions! He gives us the desires of our hearts. We don't have to be afraid that He will short-change us. He delights to bless.
Don't be surprised when Christ remembers little things: favorite colors, personal style, neat floor plans, wishes, hopes, dreams. God is a doting father who loves to give us good things. he will not give us things that will be a snare for our souls.
Open your eyes to see His blessings! Thank Him over and over for what He has given. Don't focus on what you don't have, focus on what He has given.
Let God Speak through Provision and Lack of Provision!
If we really believe that God owns us, our money, and all our stuff, then He should call the shots. He should say yes or no to our financial decisions, goals, and dreams. Can we let God say, "No"? Or do we pursue our agenda without hesitation, not really caring what God's will is.
It is my experience that most Christians ask God about His will only when they don't really know what they want. If we really want something, we will rationalize that it must be God's will. How often do we ask God, "What is it you want me to do? Buy? Pursue?"
Since the Lord makes His feelings about debt clear in Scripture, I allow God to say, yes by providing for something I ask Him to have or do. He can close the doors in other ways too. Many times our Heavenly Father provides things for free. Don't forget to ask first before you buy something.
Next week, we will talk about living extravagantly by sticking to the plan, trusting God, and living the adventure. Until then, live extravagantly for His glory!
Merey (Meredith Ludwig Curtis
Don't be surprised when Christ remembers little things: favorite colors, personal style, neat floor plans, wishes, hopes, dreams. God is a doting father who loves to give us good things. he will not give us things that will be a snare for our souls.
Open your eyes to see His blessings! Thank Him over and over for what He has given. Don't focus on what you don't have, focus on what He has given.
Let God Speak through Provision and Lack of Provision!
If we really believe that God owns us, our money, and all our stuff, then He should call the shots. He should say yes or no to our financial decisions, goals, and dreams. Can we let God say, "No"? Or do we pursue our agenda without hesitation, not really caring what God's will is.
It is my experience that most Christians ask God about His will only when they don't really know what they want. If we really want something, we will rationalize that it must be God's will. How often do we ask God, "What is it you want me to do? Buy? Pursue?"
Since the Lord makes His feelings about debt clear in Scripture, I allow God to say, yes by providing for something I ask Him to have or do. He can close the doors in other ways too. Many times our Heavenly Father provides things for free. Don't forget to ask first before you buy something.
Next week, we will talk about living extravagantly by sticking to the plan, trusting God, and living the adventure. Until then, live extravagantly for His glory!
Merey (Meredith Ludwig Curtis
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