How Much to Give: One Year Bible Reading for March 6

 Today we read these verses in the One Year Bible:

Numbers 6:1-7:89
Mark 12:38-13:13
Psalm 49:1-20
Proverbs 10:27-28

Let's look at Mark. Jesus calls His disciples to Him and points out an old lady who is giving to the church. She gives two small coins - like two pennies. Even though many others around her are giving larger amounts, God is pleased with her giving the most because she's giving all she has.

There are lots of things we can learn from this. One is that God wants our TIME. Some people might give a few minutes a week to God and then jealously guard the rest of their time and growl if anyone asks for help that requires them to give up MORE of their precious time. We need to learn that our time, like this woman's money, belongs to God - all of it. So let's be generous with it!

But also - how much should you give to your church? One awkward problem that happens in some communities is you'll have a member of the church who doesn't manage their money well. They give SO MUCH to the church that they can't pay their bills. God wants us to take care of our needs in addition to giving to our church and to the poor. Yes, we should live simply so we can afford to give more. But God calls us to live wisely, and that means paying our bills AND giving to the church. How much should you give? Ask Him, and He will prompt you. And then give with a cheerful heart!

God, thanks for teaching us how to give.