Beautiful Word Devotional #170

You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness.

1 Thessalonians 2:5

Many people struggle with the church because of the issue of money. Based on various experiences, some people perceive that churches are all about separating you from your paycheck.

Take note, though, of what Paul said here. First, he and his fellow workers didn’t flatter people in order to compel them to donate to a cause or meet a need. And when talking about the church’s financial needs, Paul also didn’t say one thing and mean another. He was authentic in his concern for the church; his motive was never greed.

Serving God is impossible when we serve money. Jesus made this clear. So Paul made sure his ministry was above reproach. How about you? Are you handling the money God has entrusted to you in a way that pleases and honors him? Are you generous? Do you see money as a tool or something to grab onto? How wonderful that Paul is an example of how to view and deal with money.

Lord, I want to be free from greed. I want to be free to be generous, amen.