God's Angle on Money

INTRODUCTION

In photography the angle of the picture is critical in making a good picture or a bad one. The same is true with the issues we face in life. The angle we take on those issues can make all the difference between happiness and pain. We have our own angle on politics, sex, marriage, language, and alcohol. It can seem in our culture we can choose any angle we seem fit. In fact, we change our angle on certain issues depending on the situation we're facing.

Well, if we can have our angle God can have his angle too. The neat thing about God's angle on issues is sees the whole picture, while we just see just the puzzle peice. From his angle God sees all and knows all. With this truth in mind this series looks at God's angle on some straight topics.

This lesson looks at God's angle on money. It seems our angle is first we spend it, then save it if we have any left over, and then if we're lucky we'll have a few pennies left to be generous with others. Is that God's angle?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

God's angle on money is we tithe 10% first, save 10%, and then spend 80% wisely.

1. Tithe 10% (Genesis 14:20)

A. Read Malachi 3:10. God says test me in the tithe and see if I don't bless you. Why is this hard for us to believe?

B. What are some of the blessings God gives when we are faithful in our tithing?

2. Save 10% (Proverbs 13:11)

A. What is your plan for saving a little by little over a long period of time?

B. Saving means we put off what we can buy today for a better tommorow. Why is this discipline so hard?

C. What savings goal do you have?

3. Spend 80% wisely. (Proverbs 21:5)

A. Do you know where your money is going? If not, how can you get a handle on understanding where your money is going? (You can start by knowing how much you actually make.)

B. If you make over $32,000 you are considered extremely rich by world's standards. So why don't you feel rich?

C. What plan are you using to reduce your debt? "Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you." PR 22:26-27 (NIV) How is this scripture true in our culture?

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
Does the way you handle your money demonstrate that you honor God first in your life?

CHANGING YOUR MIND
“Why spend money on what does not satisfy?” Isa. 55:2 (NIV)

“If I have put my trust in money, if my happiness depends on wealth... it would mean that I denied the God of heaven.” Job 31:24,28 (LB)