Memorize
19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (ESV®)
- As group members answer this question honestly the leader can discover people’s level of seriousness about tracking their expenses.
- Knowing where our money is being spent safeguards us from getting into trouble with debt, materialism and overspending. We do not want to keep spending when we have not planned ahead of time how we will pay for it.
- Taking care of our resources and being a truly worthy employee, will lead to being rewarded (providing for us and our family). Taking this parable a little further, we should work with excellence at our job and/or studies, not following the pattern of those we work with who may not have a good work ethic.
- As a farmer or a rancher we would need to be sure to know how all the animals in our care are doing, because they are our main form of income. We need to do all we can to preserve and protect our income. Let the group continue listing their ideas.
- Simply stated, we would lose our income and be in great need. Let the group explore this as deeply as they want.
- Let the group members discuss their particular circumstances. One idea would be to regularly assess our studies, major and/or job as well as every category in our budget.
- We have the assurance that even in the midst of disaster, sickness or financial reversals, God will supply our needs. (See also Matthew 6:33.) As a missionary, Paul experienced great need and regularly saw that need supplied by God. Looking at 2 Corinthians 11:23-28, we can see that Paul has credibility when he says that God will supply all our needs in Christ Jesus.
- Share with each other the idea that our part is to be mindful of our money and our work. As we do our best to honor God, He promises to meet our needs. Feel free to expand on this.
- Make personal application here, then share in the group.
- Choose a tracking system and revise your spending plan.
©2014 Cru. All rights reserved. “Financial Faithfulness” is one of The Community series of Bible studies designed to be taught in group settings, one-on-one, or in seminar format. We'd love to hear your feedback. Please write us at resources@cru.org. This study can be freely printed for ministry and personal use. A link to this study may be posted on your website, but no content from this study may be included in another work or posted directly on a website without written permission from Cru.
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