Week 21: May 25
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CORE 52 - Chapter 21: "Money"
In Chapter 21 of CORE 52, titled "Money," Mark Moore examines the biblical perspective on money and wealth. He discusses the complex relationship people have with money and the often negative impact that a love for wealth can have on one’s spiritual life. Moore draws on the teachings of Jesus and the wisdom found throughout Scripture to offer guidance on how to handle money in a way that honors God.
Moore begins by emphasizing that money itself is not evil, but the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10). Jesus often warned about the dangers of materialism, stating that it is impossible to serve both God and money (Matthew 6:24). Moore explains that money should be seen as a tool for God’s purposes, not as an end in itself. Wealth is temporary, and our true treasures are found in the kingdom of God.
The chapter also addresses the importance of generosity, illustrating how giving can be an act of faith and obedience that reflects God’s love and care for others. Moore points out that when we use money to serve others and advance God’s kingdom, we are investing in eternal treasures. He encourages believers to be good stewards of their finances, living with an eternal perspective rather than focusing on accumulating wealth for personal gain.
Ultimately, Moore challenges readers to evaluate their priorities and ask whether their use of money reflects their commitment to God’s purposes. By aligning financial decisions with biblical principles, believers can live a life that honors God and serves others, contributing to the expansion of His kingdom.
Application:
Reflect on your relationship with money. Are there areas where you need to adjust your priorities or shift your mindset? Consider how you can use your resources to advance God’s kingdom and serve others.
Cultivate a spirit of generosity by making intentional decisions to give to those in need, support the work of the church, and be a blessing to others with your resources.
Five Daily Spiritual Challenges:
Day 1: Reflect on Your Relationship with Money Spend time today reflecting on your attitude toward money. Read 1 Timothy 6:6-10 and Matthew 6:19-24. Are you serving money, or is money serving God’s purposes in your life? Ask God to help you evaluate your relationship with wealth and adjust your priorities accordingly.
Day 2: Seek Contentment In a culture that values accumulation, Jesus calls us to be content with what we have (Hebrews 13:5). Reflect on the areas of your life where you may be discontent or always striving for more. Spend time in prayer, asking God to give you a heart of contentment and gratitude for what He has provided.
Day 3: Practice Generosity Reflect on the biblical call to generosity (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Consider how you can practice generosity in your own life. Look for an opportunity to bless someone in need, whether financially or through acts of service, and do so with a joyful heart, trusting God to provide.
Day 4: Be a Wise Steward Jesus teaches that we are stewards of the resources He gives us (Luke 16:10-13). Take time today to reflect on how you manage your finances. Are you budgeting wisely, saving responsibly, and using your resources to honor God? Ask for wisdom in making financial decisions that align with His will.
Day 5: Invest in Eternal Treasures Jesus reminds us to store up treasures in heaven, not on earth (Matthew 6:19-21). Reflect on how you can invest in things that have eternal value—whether through supporting the church, helping those in need, or investing in relationships that will last for eternity. Consider what steps you can take today to invest in God’s kingdom.
Daily Thought-Provoking Questions:
Day 1: How does your relationship with money align with your faith in God? Are there areas where your use of money reflects an unhealthy attachment or a desire for more than you truly need?
Day 2: What areas of your life reflect discontentment or a desire for more? How can you cultivate a spirit of contentment and gratitude, trusting that God will provide for your needs?
Day 3: How can you practice generosity today? Is there someone you can bless or serve with your resources, and how can you do so with a joyful and obedient heart?
Day 4: Are you being a wise steward of the financial resources God has entrusted to you? What changes can you make to manage your money more effectively and honor God in your financial decisions?
Day 5: In what ways can you invest in eternal treasures rather than temporary wealth? How can you prioritize kingdom work and use your resources to make an eternal impact?
Chapter 21 of CORE 52 challenges believers to examine their relationship with money and to view wealth as a tool for advancing God’s kingdom. It calls readers to prioritize generosity, wise stewardship, and eternal investments over material accumulation, helping them align their financial practices with biblical principles. By doing so, believers can live a life that honors God and contributes to the expansion of His kingdom.