Philippians 4:11-19

Tuesday, May 17, 2011 Forward to a Friend Print Free Newsletters May 17 Financial Wisdom: How to Spend Philippians 4:11-19 God entrusts each believer with a share of His resources. And like any wise overseer, He gives His stewards guidelines for making the best use of His wealth: • The Essential Expense—A believer’s wisest money management decision is to regularly set aside the first portion of income for the church. As we promote and provide for God’s work in this way, He protects what is left (Deut. 26:2; Mal. 3:10-11). • The Next Priority—God promised to supply for our needs (Phil. 4:19). The primary way we get necessities like food, clothing, shelter, transport, and education is by paying for it with what He provides. • Pursuit of Godly Goals—Next, we’re to use money to meet God’s goals for us or our family. Instead of “floating” through life; believers should seek and pursue God’s will. He may lead you to invest in education, start a business, or purchase a particular item. • A High Calling—Giving to the needy is an investment in God’s kingdom. While we should be cautious not to promote laziness, a gracious act to a poor man “lends to the Lord and He will repay . . .” (Prov. 19:17). • Uses for What’s Left—Last on the list is fulfilment of desires. Believers who delight in the Lord walk in obedience to Him. He in turn blesses them with the good things that fit His will for their lives (Ps. 37:4). Good stewards manage God’s resources by asking Him, “What is Your will for the wealth that You have given me?” You’ll be amazed at how fulfilling it is to live according to biblical principles. Even a little money seems like more than enough when you spend it as the Lord intends. For more biblical teaching and resources from Dr. Charles Stanley, please visit www.intouch.org. Used with permission from In Touch Ministries, Inc. © 2009 All Rights Reserved.