Sunday, October 15, 2023

Today, I encourage you to pause and consider how God is inviting you to live out the weekend message in the coming days.

To begin, take a few moments to sit quietly before God. Set aside any distractions, close your eyes, and take a few slow, deep breaths. With each exhalation, give him your worries and concerns and let his peace wash over you.

Next, take some time to read the verses below and explore the questions that follow. You can do this on your own or with others.

Matthew 6:33
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

Malachi 3:10
“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!”

What do you think God may be trying to teach you about trusting him and honoring him with your finances?

What worries or fears do you have about giving to God first instead of spending or saving?

Finally, consider recording your responses in a journal, whether digital or hardcopy. It's a great way to be able to look back on the adventure God has you on.

Prayer:
Dear Father, thank you for loving me so much that you gave your son for me even when I didn’t deserve it. Help me to trust you with my whole heart and prioritize you as Lord of my life, living confidently that you will provide for me as you do for the lilies in the field. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

Matthew 6:33

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

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Discussion Questions:

Icebreaker: What story of the Bible would seem scary if you were the main character in it?

Why is it so easy, even as a Christ-follower, to operate from a scarcity mindset (a fear of not having enough)?

Read Matthew 6:25-33. What do you learn about God from this passage?

What do you find most scary/challenging about using your money in the order of give, save, spend?

What is one thing you can do this week to trust God with your finances?

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut.