As we seek to build a community where stealing doesn’t make any sense, AND as a way of fending off the temptation to “steal” in our own lives, let’s reflect on what we’ve heard today:
RECALIBRATION
The Bible reminds us that “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1) and that we are merely stewards of the things currently under our care.
- How would it change your perspective to realize that God is the true owner of your stuff, and that you are simply a steward or user of it?
- In what ways have you “robbed God” by not treating the money you have as if it exists for building God’s kingdom, not your own?
Take a minute to reflect. Think of one practical action step you can take this week.
RE-PRIORITIZATION
Jeff reminded us that the earliest followers of Jesus were transformed into a community where everyone held “everything in common”, even selling “property and possessions to give to anyone who had need”. (Acts 2:44-45).
- On a scale of 1-10, how possessive are you of your possessions? Are there things you own that you’re unwilling to share or lend?
- Do you live with an abundance mentality, believing that there’s enough to go around for everyone, or a scarcity mentality, hoarding as much as you can for yourself, for fear you won’t have enough?
Take a minute to reflect. Think of one practical action step you can take this week.
REDISTRIBUTION & RESTITUTION
Finally, embracing this mental recalibration and engaging in financial reprioritization, we are led to practice a lifestyle redistribution and restitution. So let me ask you:
- In what ways do you need to redefine what “enough” looks like in your life, so that everyone can have enough?
- To what degree have you stolen, by “ignoring” the needs and injustices experienced by those around you?
- BONUS: What practical steps of restitution can you take in your life this week?
Take a minute to reflect. Think of one practical action step you can take this week.
As we respond with this final song, I invite you to make this your prayer, inviting God to take your life, including all your earthly wealth and possessions, and help you to relinquish your grip on them, entrusting everything you are and have to God, for the sake of putting God’s kingdom first.
SONG: Kingdom Of God/Take My Life And Let It Be
