Next level, Part 2 - Luke 12:42-44
Luke 12:15, And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
Luke 12:42, And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season?”
Until Jesus is your EVERYTHING, you will worry about everything. Our anxiety and worry reveal our idolatry. The idolatry of money is the source of much anxiety and worry.
Luke 12:42-44, And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all that he has.”
God’s expectation for us is to be wise and faithful stewards with the resources He entrusts us with. 1 Corinthians 4:2, “Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.”
To go to the Next Level of GENEROSITY demands you plan for three things!
SpendingSavingSharing
The 10/10/80 plan gives you the margin needed to live freely so you can give generously. Your first 10% goes to God, your second 10% goes to savings, and you live on the 80% that is left. The percentages can change. You can modify it as needed, but the basic plan stays the same.
You need a plan to give generously—your first 10% goes to God. The tithe is not a New Testament command. For the Christian, the tithe is a guide. If you cannot do a full tenth, start somewhere. Be intentional and prayerful; be consistent and persistent. Then go to the NEXT LEVEL!
When we give back to God, there is a promise of blessing for our obedience. Proverbs 3:9-10, “Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.”
You need a plan to save—the second 10% goes to you. If you follow a plan, you’ll be amazed at how much you can save!
Compound interest has the power to multiply your debt or multiply your savings. The power of compound interest has the power to be your greatest financial asset or your worst financial nightmare!
You need a plan to spend—live on the 80% that is left. You cannot get ahead and go to the “next level” by living at your means or above your means.
Adjust your standard of living to live “below your means”—80% of your income.
Whether or not you are wealthy materially, you can live free financially.