So do not be overly concerned about what you will eat and what you will drink, and do not worry about such things. For all the nations of the world pursue these things, and your Father knows that you need them.
Into the Text
Charity can be a tricky subject. We are all sensitive about money because we all need money to live. Food costs money, shelter costs money, clothing costs money. And all the things that aren’t absolute necessities for survival cost money—like cars, electricity, hobbies, travel, and education.
Our temptation is often to live like the rich man in Luke 12. This man was very successful, so much so that he did not have a way to contain all of his success. Instead of recognizing that he could share his wealth with others, this man built bigger storehouses for his grain. He put his security in his wealth, believing that, because he had enough, he would not need to worry for the rest of his life.
None of us wants to worry about our basic needs being met. It is easy to place our security in our finances. But that doesn’t increase our faith in God. Jesus told His disciples not to worry about their physical needs. No matter what they lacked, God would provide just what they needed. Their security was in Him, not in what they had. Even with an abundance of wealth, none of us can add any time to our lives and, like the rich man, we can’t take any of our wealth with us.
After Jesus reassured His disciples that He would always care for and provide for them, He said, “sell your possessions and give to the poor.” He would provide what they needed so they could give generously to those in need.
If we struggle with charity, it is not because we don’t have enough to give to others. Charity is a faith issue, not a resource issue. Charity is an expression of our faith. It displays just how much we believe God will provide for our needs. When we are convinced that He will always give us what we need, we will be more willing to give to others.