GPS-Soggy Bread

26 / Sunday Read Eccl 11:1 (NKJV) / Jn 6:1-13 / Matt 18:3 / Eccl 3:1

Overview: Can you dare to be generous, even when it seems like all you’ll get in return is soggy bread? Find out why getting soaked on an investment can actually work.

27 / Mon – Contrasting stories  |  Read Luke 12:15-21

In 1902, a group of 500 people contributed $5 each to a fund that would support one another during difficult times. They viewed money as a tool, not a goal. Their motto: live generously. That group exists to this day with thousands of members. They still view money as a goal. Their motto has not changed. What a contrast to many attitudes today. This man foolishly focused on indulging himself. He didn’t live long enough to enjoy his wealth. Even sadder, he never experienced the joy of sharing with others. How can you live generously in your everyday life?

28 / Tue – More is not always better  |  Read 1 Timothy 6:5-10

One of the lies we all buy into is that more will make us happier. And sometimes it does. For about 15 minutes. According to this verse, how does it work in God’s kingdom? Have you experienced this yourself? In what areas are you the most content with what God has given you? Where do you feel restless and want more? What might the Lord be saying to you? Are there steps you could take to resolve this discontentment? If you don’t know how, ask the Holy Spirit to show you.

29 / Wed – Just the delivery person  |  Read Matthew 6:1-4 / 2 Corinthians 9:8

Some Christians are generous with their time, skills, or resources and never think about being repaid. Others give while looking for what they’ll get in return. Who do you think is the happiest? God is the one who keeps track and continues to pour out His blessings on those who share what they have been given. These folks never worry about running out because they know God’s supply is endless. How is the Lord using you to bless others?

30 / Thu – Reflecting the Son  |  Read Romans 8:29 (New Living Translation)

Have you ever thought of yourself as a walking billboard for Jesus? That is what you are. When you show generosity or kindness or love without reservation, it points to Him. If you are complimented, you can give credit where credit is due. Does this idea of reflecting Jesus make you uncomfortable because you know how flawed you are? Being open will only make your story more credible. It gives hope to others, and God gets the glory. Do you need help becoming more like Jesus? Just ask.

31 / Fri – Your attitude matters  |  Read 2 Corinthians 9:7

When you ask a child to share their cookie with you and they do so grudgingly, how does that make you feel? So it is with the Lord. You didn’t need that cookie, and God doesn’t need your money. He just knows how blessed you’ll be in your giving and wants you to experience that joy. God does not want anything – your money or your service or anything else – unless you can give it cheerfully. Only give what you can do with joy. You get to decide. What a gracious God!

NOV 01 / Sat – Previous history  |  Read Matthew 25:21

When a person lives generously in a consistent manner, God sees them as trustworthy. Then He can send even greater blessings, knowing that they will be passed along to those in need. It is a countercultural idea, but when others see cheerful givers in action, it can encourage them to follow suit. Maybe you are a person who already lives generously. Are there new ways God may be calling you to give? If so, be brave and see what God will do.