Battling Materialism

Crown’s founder, Larry Burkett, wisely said, “Most of what God gives you in life is not for you.”  .

One of the greatest threats to our walk with God is the trap of materialism. We have to work at not being lured away from Him and spending our money on our own desires. Why? Because affluence tends to blind us to the needs of others.

Giving is a material expression of our spiritual obedience to Christ. It’s our way of acknowledging that God is the owner and provider of all we have, and that we are stewards.

Jesus said, It’s more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)

Why? Giving requires an emotional sacrifice of forfeiting ownership. It propels us into a freedom found in exercising faith, by believing God will use our gift and supply our need. This is when we willingly become cheerful givers.

When we begin to think like managers instead of owners, we enjoy and are grateful for all God provides. We recognize that we are blessed to be a blessing. So, with pure motives, we steward as God directs.

If you desire to give, then you need to budget for it and become disciplined. Pray like the Psalmist, Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain! (Psalm 119:36)

If you’re married, pray together, and, with united hearts, give as God convicts you – starting with your church. It’s an opportunity for you to trust Him more than ever while keeping your lives free from the love of money.

The Apostle Paul wrote that, Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.  And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. (2 Cor 9:7-8)

One of the biggest areas of financial stress is about retirement. There are many questions, and lot’s of confusion about the topic, and what the Bible says about it. For a generous donation of any amount this month, you can receive access to interviews with two of the leading experts on how to plan and enjoy your retirement. Just visit crown.org/retirement