Giving An Offering
Devotional
What are the biblical convictions a Christian should have about giving to the church? Generosity is a priority for Christians because it was a priority for Jesus. We address it because Jesus did in the life of His disciples and hearers as well.
41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
MARK 12: 41-44
Questions:
- Jesus watched the crowds give their offering in this story. What would you say this communicates about Jesus? Explain.
- What do you learn about Jesus’ reaction to the widow’s offering in this story?
- “God watches, cares about, and is affected by your giving.” What are your thoughts or reactions to this quote?
- What attitude(s) would you say you’ve had when it comes to giving an offering?
- When is it most difficult for you to give an offering?
- How can this group help you to pursue generosity when it’s hard?
Practice The Way of Jesus:
In Isaiah 32:8 (NLT), we learn that generous people plan to do what is generous. Would you consider yourself a generous person? Do you consistenly plan to be generous? This week, consider what it would look like for you to "plan to do what is generous." Identify the areas where God might be calling to grow in the area of generosity. And seek to grow in this area if needed.