Our culture is full of financial questions and solutions! As one of the wealthiest societies in history, everyone wants to know what to do with their money. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 answers those questions. It’s God's financial plan for the wealthy. These verses instruct us on how to live a life that reflects the heart of the wealthiest One of all - God. What does He do with His wealth? He gives.

What does it mean to be blessed? Is it when circumstances go well? Is it when we have an abundance? In 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, the Apostle Paul explains the many blessings God has built into the act of generosity. Jesus' words ring true: "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). As we think about giving, we should give as those who the Giver has blessed.

As we budget for the new year, we assure ourselves that we will be more careful this year. Giving is difficult! We know we are supposed to be generous people, but we don't always feel generous! But God, The Giver, is the source of all generosity. As Paul encourages the Corinthians to be generous, he emphasizes the generous grace of God, so they can learn giving that is compelled by the giver.