IN THE ZONE DEVOTIONAL...some thoughts to follow up Sunday's message...

“Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” Proverbs 3:9

We all want to exist in that sweet spot of success. We all want to live in the zone. And God wants that for us, too. But for that to happen, we have to willingly and readily honor God in everything we do, say, touch and feel. Whether it’s respecting our parents, loving our neighbor, or yes, even managing our money God’s way—honoring God is the fastest way to discover life in the zone.

But what does money really have to do with success in God’s economy? The simple reality is that money represents so much of our lives. And because of that, the way we manage our money determines in a profound way whether we are zoned in or zoned out. Money is the second greatest theme in the Bible. Jesus mentioned it more than heaven, hell or even prayer. Over half of Jesus’ parables focused on money and possessions. He knew we would struggle with the idea that we are managers and stewards, not owners. The truth is that God is the one who owns it all. When God looks at you and says, “Bring to me the first 10% of everything you make, and bring it to your local house of worship,” he’s simply telling you to return to him what is already his.

People say, “Money talks.” If that’s true, what does your money say about your priorities? Don’t fall prey to the thinking that you own your money. Instead, honor God’s command and return to him what is already his. It’s one of the greatest ways to discover just how to live in the zone.