Managing Time and Money WiselyÖrnek

An Act of Worship It’s easy to think of managing our resources as something we do that’s not necessarily tied to who we are in Christ. But take a second to imagine what might change if you viewed every purchase and commitment on your calendar as an act of worship. That would likely change a lot, right? We’re tempted to think only certain parts of our lives are spiritual, but following Jesus requires a whole-life response. That means how we spend our time and money are deeply spiritual. One practical way to use our resources as an act of worship is to consider where we’re already being obedient to God’s commands or identify where we could take a step of faith to be obedient. When it comes to our resources, there are a few things God asks us to be obedient in. One of those things is the tithe, which is returning the first 10 percent of your income to God. We believe that God owns everything we have, so as an act of trust, God calls us to return the first 10 percent of everything we make back to Him. If you haven’t tithed yet, or don’t feel like you’re in a place to do that yet, consider taking a step toward tithing. God cares more about your heart than the amount, so take just one small step in obedience, and watch as you see more of His character, His kindness, and His faithfulness. Another step you might take is to be intentionally generous—with your money or your time. Generosity prioritizes others’ needs over your own and is a way to worship God and bring more of His justice into the world. Remember—God owns all our resources. And that’s why budgeting can be an act of worship—because it’s stewarding what we’ve been given well. It’s managing our resources, which is what we’ve been commanded to do since the beginning of creation. Remember, God doesn’t need our resources. But we can use our resources in a way that reflects God to others and shows Him we believe He is faithful and trustworthy. We may not have control of the outcome of our obedience. But we can rest assured that when we obey, we’re living a life of worship. Pray: God, You are faithful, trustworthy, and true. I want to worship You with all that I am and all that I have. Please show me how I can continue to use my resources in a way that brings You glory and worship. In Jesus’ name, amen. Challenge: Find one way to worship God with your resources today.