Food for ThoughtsSample

What Does Jesus Want Us to Know About Stuff?

(Focus Verse: Luke 7:38)

1) You Can’t Out-Give God

Most historians estimate that the value of the woman’s alabaster jar of ointment was equal to at least an entire year of the average person’s income. How could she sacrifice something so valuable, to simply wash someone’s feet? This act of generosity was possible because the woman recognized that it was nothing compared to the sacrificial act Jesus would soon make on the cross. As followers of Jesus, our generosity is meant to point others to the One who gave everything for them!

2) It’s His, Not Yours

Everything in the world exists because God spoke it into being. This means that the stuff we have truly belongs to Him, and we are responsible to use it in ways that bring glory to Him.

3) You’ll Always Have What You Need

We often avoid living generously because we fear not having enough for ourselves. While we may not receive everything we want, God always provides everything we need to fulfill His plan!

Big Idea

We’re not what we have! When it comes to our possessions, it’s important to remember that God always provides, and we are called to be generous with what He places in our hands.

Let's Think About This:

Question #1: What is one thing that “jumped out” to you while reading Luke 7:38?

Question #2: Which of the three things Jesus wants us to know about “stuff” (1. You Can’t Out-Give God; 2. It’s His, Not Yours; 3. You’ll Always Have What You Need) resonated the most with you?

Question #3: How would you describe your relationship to “stuff”? What is one thing you can do today to view possessions God’s way?