Jesus, I Want to Love You Part 6Sample

Read today's Bible references, then read below.

EXTRAVAGANT GIVING

When you are asked to give for the victims of a natural disaster, for the progress of the gospel, for the support of a ministry or a missionary couple, how do you give? Do you think that it would be irresponsible to give not knowing how you will pay your next grocery bill? Are we sometimes focused too much on the bottom line, making sure that we are wise and thrifty in our own eyes, rather than listening to the Lord? Is it difficult for you to think about withdrawing a large sum from your investment account, where it’s making money, and send it to an organization in need? Is it difficult to think about giving up something you enjoy so that you can provide a need for someone else?

What can you learn from the radical examples of giving in the passages you read today? Concerning the John passage, think through the worth of the perfume, Judas’ response, and Jesus’ response.

What did God say in the Deuteronomy passage?

Is there a poor man with you or near you? Is there anyone you know who struggles and whose burden would be eased by what would be a small portion of your wealth but for them huge assistance? What do the people around you need? Is there a family right in your Bible study who has need of a car or clothing or even help with their monthly food bill? Do you know who they are? Do you want to know? Will you be observant and ask the Lord to show you?

In Mark 6 Jesus instructed the twelve. Imagine yourself among them and that He is speaking to you. What crosses your mind when you hear Him tell the apostles to take no money in their belt? What is Jesus saying in between the lines about trusting God to provide? How might this passage be applied to your daily call to the great commission and how you see money and resources?