All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.

[Excerpted from “Using Money Responsibly” by Parker Johnson, Jul/Aug 2022 Herald, p. 39]

In today’s global economy, a single online or in-person purchase is recorded as proof of demand, setting into motion the production of more products like it. When we spend our dollars on items produced or harvested in unsafe work conditions and in under-regulated markets…we are ensuring the status quo will continue when other consumers just like us buy the same product or service.

Learning more about local, seasonal production of food is a great way to reduce the environmental effect of shipping food long distances. Foods grown and consumed during their appropriate seasons are more nutritionally dense, flavorful, and cheaper. Many of our cultures promote instant gratification as a reflection of prosperity and happiness, but studies show that enjoyment increases dramatically when we are more intentional about how we spend our money.

Finding ways to use our money more responsibly in exchange for goods and services can be a wonderful experiment as we seek to discover our true capacity. Let’s say our grocery bill goes down because of an intentional push for in-season produce. Perhaps you can redistribute this surplus into another budget area, increasing the effect in new and meaningful ways.

Discovering our true capacity requires that we release the idea that our generosity is stagnant or compartmentalized from our other spending. Knowing our heart and money are aligned…will promote a deeper understanding of our ever-changing capacity to share generously with our time, talents, and money.

Prayer Phrase

“You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity” (2 Corinthians 9:11).

Spiritual Practice

Overflowing Generosity

Spend five minutes thinking deeply about how God has shared abundantly with you in very specific ways. Where do you see God’s abundant generosity in your life? Say a prayer of thanksgiving for these blessings. Now, reminded of these blessings, think about how you can bless others. In what ways can God’s abundant generosity overflow from you to others? What specific blessing will you share with another this day?

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.