Sow for the future

Jesus gave this advice to a group of people who were anxious about their finances: “Don’t worry about these things…your heavenly Father already knows all your needs…and he will give you everything you need” (vv. 31-33 NLT). He will do this from day to day, if you live for Him and make the kingdom of God your primary concern. What do you fear most? Not having enough money, or not having God’s blessing on your finances? If your fear of not having enough is trumped by your fear of missing out on God’s involvement in your finances, you’ll invest in something that can’t fail—God’s kingdom. You’ll sow generously, and as a result you’ll experience a peace that can’t be explained rationally and a joy that comes from knowing God is your backer, your banker, and your blesser. The Bible talks about “casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7). None of us can escape financial uncertainty. As one pastor wrote, “When the unexpected rolls around, we will be affected. Our net worth, and possibly our income, will be impacted.” And at times like that when everything seems up for grabs, we long for the assurance that we’re not alone. We want to know with certainty that when we cast our financial cares on our heavenly Father, He will, in fact, take good care of us. Ironically, financial peace of mind doesn’t come from hoarding and withholding, but from giving when it doesn’t seem to make sense. It’s your willingness to give now that guarantees God’s promise to give back to you when you need it. That’s why it’s imperative to sow generously any time you can.