“There is no way to simplify your life if your relationship with money is out of control.”- Bill Hybels
In Chapter 3 (“From Overwhelmed to In Control: Mastering Your Finances”) of Simplify, Bill Hybels states a major contributor to throwing our lives into chaos is financial stress. Financial stress leaves us vulnerable to unspeakable pain. Even though other areas of our lives may be in good order, Pastor Hybels observes that a “dysfunctional relationship with money will result in an ever-present feeling of being besieged.”
The author asserts the sheer number of Bible verses related to money is a strong indicator right stewardship with our finances truly is of importance to God. Good stewardship brings freedom and life-changing peace that permeates the heart.
In Luke 19:1-10, Zaccheus- the chief tax collector in the city of Jericho- had come to the breaking point. Pastor Hybels believes Zaccheus held out hope that Jesus would free him from the crippling relationship with money that bound him. Zaccheus was powerless to change his behavior.
Pastor Hybels asks us to consider the following question: “If your true financial condition were put upon a billboard for all your friends and family to see, would you feel satisfaction and peace? Or would you feel deep embarrassment?”
Zaccheus experienced not only a spiritual reconciliation with Jesus, but also a second reconciliation- a financial one. Pastor Hybels discusses this second reconciliation in tomorrow’s blog.
Today’s question: What Bible verses have been most helpful in relieving the burden of financial stress? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Financial reconciliation”
