Sandy Dollars

Contributed by:
Staci Overbeck
ministry assistant


I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. Philippians 4:12

Do you ever wonder what it would be like to know the kind of contentment that Paul talks about in this passage? It’s not really an American concept, is it? We are more familiar with expressions such as “the grass is always greener” and “keeping up with the Joneses.” Or maybe you’re familiar with the example shared this past weekend, "If you give a mouse a cookie, he's going to ask for a glass of milk." We can sugarcoat it all we want, but often the underlying root of our discontent is greed.

In week 3 of Sandyland, Pastor Ron tackled the topic of money. Teaching from Luke 12:13-21, he pointed out how greed (the passion to possess what is not ours) can slip in when we begin to lose focus on God in our financial equation. He helped us understand that greed is often fueled by fear when we have allowed ourselves to put our faith in something other than God.

Pastor Ron also gave us a three-step plan for breaking the grip that greed may have on our hearts. First we need to confront our fears by determining in whom do we put our trust. Second, we need to challenge our perspective. This involves a subtle shift from “What should I do?” to “Lord, what do you want me to do?” And finally, we need to change our heart by cultivating a spirit of giving - giving spontaneously, strategically, and sacrificially.

It’s so easy in our culture to fall prey to greed. There is always something bigger, or better, or newer that society tells us we must have. But scripture tells us “…life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” Luke 12:15 When we begin to look at our finances through the lens of generosity, we will be better able to build our financial house upon the rock.

Take a few minutes to look for areas in your life where greed may have taken root. (You might want to begin with a simple prayer to ask God to help you see with His eyes.)

• Were you surprised by what came to mind?
• What role does generosity play in your life? Is it foundational?
• What is one simple step you can take this week to be more generous?