To Be Rich Toward God Pt. 1 With Carolyn Calupca

Carolyn Calupca on the program was a long time senior producer at Crown Financial Ministries where she worked closely with Larry Burkett for many years. She’s now a frequent contributor here at Faith and Finance and the author of our new 4-week study guide, Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool. 

WHAT IS THE HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL?

Jesus delivers this parable in 33 AD, during a time of significant political and spiritual tension in Judea under Roman rule. As Jesus moves toward Jerusalem for the last time, he attracts a large following, drawn by his authoritative teaching and miraculous deeds. Amidst his teachings on judgment and preparation, an individual interrupts to seek Jesus' mediation in a familial inheritance dispute.

• The setting is marked by societal unrest and anticipation for spiritual guidance.
• Jesus' teachings captivate thousands, highlighting his unique authority and the miracles he performs.
• The request for arbitration on an inheritance matter presents a moment of personal concern amidst broader spiritual teachings.

WHY IS THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL RELEVANT TODAY?

Jesus' teachings are timeless, addressing the core issues of the human heart, which remains unchanged. The parable of the rich fool is particularly poignant in today's materialistic society, where the accumulation of possessions often overshadows spiritual richness.

• The human heart's condition and its inclinations have remained constant throughout history.
• Modern society mirrors the parable’s theme with its focus on accumulating material wealth.
• Jesus' message challenges individuals to examine the true source of satisfaction and richness in life.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE 'RICH TOWARD GOD'?

Being rich toward God entails prioritizing a relationship with God over material wealth and possessions. Unlike the rich fool, who focused solely on his earthly treasures, being rich toward God means acknowledging His sovereignty and utilizing His blessings to serve others rather than oneself.

• Treasuring God above all material possessions and successes.
• Recognizing and giving credit to God for all blessings, contrasting the rich fool's self-centeredness.
• Utilizing God's resources to serve others, highlighting a shift from self-service to serving God and community.

HOW CAN THE STUDY "RICH TOWARD GOD" HELP GOD'S PEOPLE?

The study "Rich Toward God" encourages introspection on personal values and priorities, guiding individuals toward a deeper understanding of what truly satisfies the soul. It asks probing questions about one's deepest needs, the pursuit of abundance, and the journey to becoming rich toward God.

• Encourages self-examination of one's deepest needs and sources of true satisfaction.
• Guides individuals on a reflective journey to discover how to become genuinely rich toward God.
• Offers practical questions and insights to facilitate personal spiritual growth and reevaluation of life's priorities.

ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:

• I'm considering a reverse mortgage for my home valued at $200,000 and want to know if I qualify and the benefits.
• I want to place an alert on inherited property to be notified if someone tries to sell it or use it as collateral.
• I have my savings sitting in cash within a Fidelity account after losing money during the pandemic. I'm 71 and need to know about required minimum distributions for this year.
• As newlyweds living debt-free in a tiny house, my husband and I are looking for advice on saving for a larger home to start our family, considering our modest beginnings and desire for financial literacy.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Fidelity
• Bankrate for emergency savings tips.
• FaithFi App for tracking monthly expenses and budgeting.
   

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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