Day 3 | 21-Day Growth Challenge | Joy and Responsibility with your "Three T's"

Wednesday, September 01, 2010 Bryan Hudson 12 Comments






IMPORTANT NOTE FROM BRYAN HUDSON: I became aware that the questions went missing from this post during the day. This occurred because of an editing mistake on my part.  There was also an issue with comments being disabled. Hopefully, these issues are corrected. If not, let me know ASAP.

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SCRIPTURE:
Proverbs 3:13, (NLT) Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. 14 For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. 15 Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. 16 She offers you long life in her right hand,  and riches and honor in her left. 17 She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying.18 Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.

INSIGHT: 
One problem in today's society, and even among believers, is that too many people separate finance from wisdom. Having money without wisdom is like driving a car blindfolded—something is going to be damaged and someone is going to be severely injured.

I like to think of wisdom as knowing the correct destination and the best means to get there. Understanding is knowing the meaning or purpose of a thing.

The text states, "Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding." There is joy in knowing what to do with your core possessions of Time, Treasure, and Talent (the three "T's). For a lack of wisdom and understanding, time, treasure and talent are squandered or abused.

The text does not encourage the reader to reject resources in favor of wisdom, but to allow wisdom to govern one's resources. The best outcome of "prosperity God's way" is joy and satisfaction along with increase.

When we walk in God's wisdom and understanding, we put first things first. 1 Corinthians 1:30 says, "But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption." Jesus becomes wisdom for those who operate within God's plan. Part of that plan is responsibility and generosity with our possessions.

Proverbs 3:9, Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce.10 Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine

PRAYER:
"Lord, I accept the joy and responsibility of gaining wisdom. Help me honor You by yielding my time, treasure and talents to You. I thank You for wisdom and understanding in giving and serving. I receive the blessings you offer me. In Jesus's Name,  Amen!"


ACTIVATION:
(Use comment section below to share your insights. Record sensitive items in your personal journal. You may use your name or remain anonymous.)
  1. What is your understanding of Wisdom and Understanding?
  2. Share one example of resources without wisdom.
  3. Describe what Proverbs 3:9 means to you, "Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce" 
  4. What actions will you take today related to this lesson?
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