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Jesus teaches us that we
cannot serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). Giving should be inextricably tied to our spiritual lives, not something that is apart from it.

One biblical indication of the spirit of giving is the story of the widow’s offering (Mark 12:41 – 44), where Jesus sat with his disciples in the temple courts and witnessed many wealthy people contributing large amounts.

He points out the small gift made by a poor widow, emphasizing that she gave all that she had, making her a faithful steward. The point here is
that you are to give from your heart, regardless of the amount.

Consider another biblical story, also in Mark, where a woman anoints the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume. The disciples are indignant at the apparent waste, suggesting that it could have been sold and the money given to the poor. But Jesus encouraged them to focus on the heart of the woman and her extreme act of selfless giving.

If these issues have you thinking about what role issues such as consumerism, greed, and financial security play in your heart, this is a good start at determining whether you are worshiping your money or you are worshiping with your money.