The Greatest Taboo

I have friends whom I would trust with my life and yet they would not know…

2 Corinthians 8:1-24

Reference: v.14 At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, (TNIV Bible)

Explore: People say that there are two things you should never talk about at a dinner party – politics and religion. While these can be tricky subjects to navigate I think the biggest taboo subject of all is … money.

No one likes to talk about their personal finance. I have friends whom I would trust with my life and yet they would not know what my annual salary is.

There’s one friend whom I would consider as close as a sibling, and yet, I’m concerned with how they spend their money. Even though I want what’s best for them, I am too shy to address them about their financial situation.

Money is a very tricky topic. Those who have money are looked down upon for being greedy; those who have little try to make themselves look like they have much more.

All in all, it is clear to say, that money is a touchy subject. And yet, every single person deals with it every single day.

Application: One thing I notice when reading through the Bible is that it is not backward when talking about money. Jesus mentions it often as does Paul, and we see Paul’s opinion come through strongly in 2 Corinthians 8.

In all the Biblical talk about money the underlying theme is always generosity. Both Jesus and Paul do not put a limit on our income or a figure on our bank balance, but they both speak of being generous.

There are always opportunities for us to give. There are people and organisations around us who need our money to assist others.

Never does Jesus or Paul say to be frivolous with what we earn, but they do remind us of how much we have in our relationship with God. Having received so much, we are encouraged to give to others.

Instead of holding your money so close to your chest, be open to see how you can bless others through your giving today.

Prayer: Lord, we get so possessive over our funds. May we hold them loosely, knowing that You have already provided for our every need. Amen.

Who can you bless with your money today?

2 Corinthians, advice, finances, Friends, generous, giving, greed, money