Matthew 19

"...it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Matthew 19:24 

Just before this, a rich man asked Jesus what else he had to do to get into heaven. The rich man had kept all the commandments, so Jesus told him to sell everything to follow him. But, the man did not. Obviously, the mans stuff meant more to him than his relationship with Christ. Yikes. The Holy Spirit may be telling you to let go of something and give your whole heart to him. Are your finances, friends, grades, material things worth more than your salvation? Today, let's take an inventory of our lives and work on making our hearts like Jesus'. Happy Wednesday :) 

Proverbs 16- Work & Wisdom

"Mortals make elaborate plans, but God has the last word" Proverbs 16:1

"Put God in charge of your work, then what you have planned will take place" Proverbs 16:3

"When God approves of your life, even enemies will end up shaking your hand" Proverbs 16:7

"Get wisdom- it's worth more than money; choose insight over income every time" Proverbs 16:16

These were some of my favorite verses from chapter 16 (the message translation). If you have some favorites, feel free to share! Happy Monday! :)

Proverbs 10- Wealth Building

"The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked. Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth." Proverbs 10:3-4

I don't know of anyone who dreams of having financial struggles and hardship in their future. In fact, Instagram tells me everyday how people are "stacking money" and "building empires." But what does true wealth building look like? It's asking God to lead you into your purpose, trusting that you will be provided for, and working diligently and consistently. The Word says we are to do all work as unto The Lord (Colossians 3:23). Even if the tasks seem meaningless, remember, that all things work together for the fulfillment of your purpose. So, don't get discouraged if results aren't immediate, stay focused on Christ, not your situation.

(Original Post: December 10)

Proverbs 6- Lazy Christians

"A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man." Proverbs 6:10-11

Proverbs 6 warns us about what can happen when we become complacent and lazy. No, we should not obsess about earthly treasures (Matthew 6:19-21), but we should prepare to the best of our abilities. Faith without works is dead (James 2:14-26), so if we need a job, yes, prayer works, but so does updating a resume. No matter what season we find ourselves in, we cannot become so comfortable that we don't do our part. Yes, God is faithful, but He also gave us gifts and talents to USE! 

According to a Jewish proverb, "your day begins the night before." 

(Original post: December 6)

Proverbs 3- stewardship

"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, & your vats will brim over with new wine." Proverbs 3:9-10

There are over 2000 verses in the Bible that talk about money. Whether we make $100 per week or $100K per year, the way we handle money should be the same. As long as we are making an income, it is required that we tithe at least 10%, save some, give some, and enjoy some. Since finances are a gift from God and a tool to assist His people, we are more like stewards instead of owners of money. If we cannot follow the Lord's wisdom with less money, why would he bless us with more? Let's remember to honor God in ALL aspects of our lives, even monetarily. He is our provider, not a job, a bank, or a person. 

(Original post: Decmber 3)