Upwards Forward

Jesus displayed a righteous anger when he “cleaned house” in the temple of Jerusalem (Matthew 21:12-17). Unrighteous trade had permeated hearts and the space of worship, physically and the soul.

What would He do today in our ministries, our dwelling places, and about our hearts? How are we and our neighbors responding to matters of money? Are we seeing “red” or “green”?

Many ministries find themselves in a budget deficit at the end of summer, and this year, weathering COVID-19. It is easy to excuse this as “people are just tuned-out during the summer.” Well, who’s responsibility is this? If we’re honest, part of it resides in our leadership. Let us first pray as Jesus did, repent as needed, and let any righteous anger drive us to excellent leadership; let us drink T.E.A. before we E.A.T. (T.hink first, deal with E.motion, then take A.ction instead of the reverse).

Everyone wants to win at money. Nobody “tunes-out” of this topic just because its warm outside. Neither should we.

Here’s what we are told to do about it:

• Help people “win” at their finances and the Kingdom will “win” as well (Proverbs 21:5; 24:27)
• Growing in generosity boosts Gospel impact (Proverbs 11:25)
• Inspire hearts to reflect a love for Jesus and His purposes other than themselves (1 Timothy 6:17-19)
• Enact intentional discipleship about stewardship (Proverbs 27:23-24)
• Remind ourselves and others of the peril that wealth can bring (James 5:1-6)

There is much in your calling, the Kingdom, and gospel impact to be had. Let’s get after it.

Jay Stearley

My book BLOOM: Growing People and Money provides a gospel-centered approach and detailed roadmap to help ministries turn the “red” into “green”, and “green”, “greener” in the spirit of Matthew 6.