Worship

Scripture

What’s a dollar worth to you? It seems to change with age, our perspective, and financial status in life. I remember my first job was earning minimum wage, which back in the 90’s was $5.15 per hour. I worked at a local fast food chain washing dishes, frying food, and taking orders from irate customers that seemed very difficult to please. My minimum wage pay wasn’t much, maybe $200 per month in good times where hours were plenty and shifts were easy to pick up, but it was a lot to me because it was the first time in life that I had money of my own. 

I never forget the concept of giving to my church was instilled in me at a young age. Mom and dad would give me a dollar to put into the offering plate on Sunday mornings. The dollar meant very little to me at the time because I didn’t earn it. I had no concept of the hard work that went into getting that dollar, but when I began to make my own money, giving became more meaningful. I now had the choice of how much to give. The habit my parents instilled in me became a choice of my own that carries on to this day. 

I love the story of the widow’s offering in Luke chapter 21 because it’s a reminder that it’s not how much we give but how much we have to give up or sacrifice that matters. An offering is not a financial contribution but a sacrifice. The Widow didn’t have the financial means that the rich had. Her contribution was far less than that of the rich but meant far more because it was a greater sacrifice for her to give up. It serves as a reminder for us that the sacrifice is far greater than the dollar amount. Next time you give, remember you are not just writing the church a check, but sacrificing something to give that gift. This changes our perspective and gives giving a new life each time we do it!

Prayer

HONOR GOD

Matthew 6:9-10, “This, then, is how you should pray:“‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven…”

In your own words, take a few moments and honor God. Reflect on the price He paid to have a relationship with you, and His love for you.

ASK GOD

Matthew 6:11 Give us today our daily bread.

Picture God extending His hands towards you. What are you concerned about that needs to be placed in His hands? What is the “bread” you need from Him? Ask Him.

SUBMIT TO GOD

Matthew 6:12-13 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

Imagine yourself entering a dark room, with a person in front of you, holding a flashlight, leading you. That’s what God does. As He leads you, tell Him how you desire to follow Him.

CLOSING PRAYER

Father, help me to cling to your promises for they are the realest thing I have. They are true and everlasting. Do not allow me to give up your promises for simple earthly pleasures or moments of weakness. Keep me from the temptations of the enemy and may your Holy Spirit guide me in my walk each and everyday. In Jesus Name, Amen.