S.O.A.P. for 04-13-2009 Money Money Money

S: Luke 16:10&11
He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust true riches?

O: When we handle what little we have according to God's will, be it money, time, family, walk, etc, then more will be added to us as we prove our ability to be good stewards. However, if we fail Him, we run the risk of being "downsized" and becoming unworthy.

A: Our character can often meet its match in money matters. God calls us to be honest in even trivial matters that we try to rationalize away. A new this, a new that, a better this, a cooler that, an improvement on something we already have that works perfectly fine.. Heaven's riches are far more valuable than earthly wealth, but if we are untrustworthy with our time, talents, or treasures, no matter it is, we will be unfit to handle the vast riches of God's kingdom. Do I really want to feel as though God has declared me unfit? or Undeserving? Does that speak of the character I feel that I should have? What can I do differently to be considered a "good steward". What am I doing with my "extra" anything??? AM I sharing, helping, or am I immediately looking at what "I" can do with it? Next new handbag, nicer shoes, better tv, time to myself, catch up on sleep...versus a friend who's down and out, or someone that just needs a hug, or a hand, or an ear..... It's obvious which is of greater importance, but which springs to mind first? How could I possibly overlook those in need for my own selfish desires?

P: Abba, Father,

I humbly confess that if I have done this thing, please forgive me. I have not recognized it, but do see it as a heinous way to live with what you call "unrighteous mammon". You already know how lethal having it can be, and You call us to something better in the way we handle it, the way we spend it, the way we work to obtain it..because You DO want to bless us with more, if only we'd obey. Father, show me Your ways, and help me to never overlook a need when I am able to meet it. If I have surplus, then let me share. Father, please don't let me be that statistic that may never know Heaven's true riches. I pray that I have not let you down in the past, and please do not let me do so in the future. Help me keep my blinders on and never seek for more than I need, that I may always have something to share....

In Jesus Name,
Amen