Asbury’s ‘Closing the Gap’ visioning campaign is an attempt to close the gap between the way the world is and the way God intended it to be. One important aspect for the success of our vision is having adequate financial resources. In this series, we explore what Jesus taught about the connection between our money, our possessions, and our faith. The result? Deeper faith and wider kingdom impact.
Biblical generosity is informed and fueled by the acknowledgment that God owns it all. We are simply managers. When we adopt that posture, we view everything we “own” as a potential tool to further the agenda of our King. We will give first and adjust our lifestyle accordingly. Christians who adopt this perspective as the organizing principle for their personal finances find it easier to surrender the other components of their life as well. As Jesus made clear, the number one competitor for our devotion to God is our devotion to more. More money and more things.
Everyone has a generosity plan, but most people prioritize spending first and leave giving as an afterthought. Jesus flipped the script on that approach with “seek ye first” living. Embracing this financial template is a tangible expression of submission to our King.
Before inviting Peter to follow him, Jesus asked Peter to “put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” After a night of fishing with no success and despite his reservations, Peter agreed: “but because you say so, I will let down the nets.” At some point, every Jesus follower will face their own “because you say so” moment. Like Peter, we won’t know what hangs in the balance or our decision. It’s better to find out than miss out.