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Thursday, October 25th (Day Eleven)

Read:
Matthew 6:25-34

"Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life."

Reflect:
For many people, this is a familiar Scripture passage. In fact, our family has at least three different versions of musical groups singing it. However, there is one important word that is easy to skip over, but if you do, you do it to your detriment. That word is "therefore."

The rule of thumb in interpreting the Bible is "whenever you see a 'therefore' you have to ask what the 'therefore' is there for." The "therefore" is there for the purpose of reminding us to trust in the true Master and not the false master of money. In other words, if you put your trust in God, and he rules over you, you will be free from the anxiety that comes from worshiping money and constantly wondering when it is going to disappoint you.

Freedom from anxiety through faith in Christ leads you to freedom not to be tied to earthly possessions. You can give generously because you do not have to worry about tomorrow. God is in control of tomorrow, and he is a kind and consistent master.

Apply:

1. Do you tend to be anxious about money and possessions? What does that suggest about whom you may be serving as master?
2. What practical steps can you take to be less anxious and, as a result, more generous?

Pray:

1. That the Lord would free you from financial anxiety through trust in him.
2. That, as a church, we would express our freedom through radical generosity.