K E YQ U O T E S
• “Our influence, our reputation, everything, even life itself, it's all a gift from God.”
• “Do we see that money can become a servant of God in and of itself, that it can be a tool for bringing about transformation of the kingdom?”
S C R I P T U R E
• Luke 16: 1-14 (click on scripture to read online)
P O I N T ST OR E V I S I T
Jesus' parable of the dishonest manager presents a challenging narrative about stewardship and the management of resources. The story features a manager who, facing dismissal for mismanaging his master's property, quickly settles debts at reduced rates to secure his future. While the master commends the manager's shrewdness rather than his dishonesty, the parable serves to illustrate deeper spiritual truths about managing God's resources wisely. The teaching emphasizes that everything we possess - from our financial resources to our time, talents, relationships, and influence - is ultimately a gift from God. We are merely stewards of these resources, responsible for managing them in alignment with God's purposes. The parable challenges the notion that we can serve both God and money, prompting us to examine our priorities through our checkbooks and calendars, which often reveal our true values. This examination should lead to practical changes in how we manage our resources, from church involvement to financial giving and the use of our talents for God's kingdom.
P R A Y E R
Lord God, open my heart and mind to understand Your truth about stewardship and priorities. Help me to be honest with myself and others as I examine my relationship with money and material possessions. In Jesus' name, Amen.
• How can we tell if our faith is truly a priority in our lives?
• What are some practical ways we can use our resources to build God's kingdom?
• How can we better align our use of time, talents, and treasure with our stated priorities?
• Children & Family Question: What kinds of gifts has God given you? Those gifts might be things or they might be abilities or talents. How can you share those gifts with others to show them through your actions, "God loves you and so do I"?
This week, conduct a personal audit of your time, money, and talents. Create two columns: one showing where these resources currently go, and another showing where you believe God wants them to go. Identify one specific change you can make to better align your stewardship with God's priorities.
Heavenly Father, thank You for entrusting us with Your resources. Help us to be faithful stewards of all You've given us. Give us wisdom to manage Your gifts in ways that honor You and build Your kingdom. Transform our hearts so that we truly serve You above wealth and possessions. In Jesus' name, Amen.
KINDNESSCHALLENGEFORKIDS
Surprise Kindness-You never know what kind of a day someone might be having so let's practice surprise kindness by leaving kind and encouraging notes where people might find them.
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