Living generously goes far beyond just money – it’s a transformative way of life that brings freedom and allows us to experience God’s kingdom fully. When we shift from ownership to stewardship mentality, recognizing that everything belongs to God, we can better serve His purposes.
What is the Mammon Trap?
The Bible teaches that no one can serve two masters – you cannot serve both God and mammon (money). Mammon represents an ungodly force that works through money to trap people in anxiety, stress, and slavery to material possessions. While money itself is neutral, the love of money can lead people astray from faith.
How Does Credit Card Debt Create Bondage?
The average American household carries $10,500 in credit card debt with interest rates around 24%. This type of consumer debt creates financial bondage:
Takes 11 years to pay off making minimum payments
Costs over $34,000 in total
Creates stress and anxiety
Limits freedom and choices
Keeps people trapped in jobs they dislike
What’s God’s Plan for Financial Freedom?
To experience true financial freedom:
Live on 80% of your income
Get out of consumer debt
Save for:
Emergencies
Future purchases
Long-term needs
Give generously (starting with 10%)
Create margin by living on 75% when possible
Why is Budgeting Important?
A budget tells your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. Jesus taught about counting the cost before building (Luke 14:28). Having a spending plan:
Creates intentionality
Provides clarity
Enables generosity
Reduces stress
Builds margin
How Does Generosity Transform Us?
True biblical generosity:
Reflects God’s giving nature
Comes from cheerful hearts, not guilt
Shows we trust God’s provision
Demonstrates kingdom living
Brings freedom and joy
Life Application
This week, take these steps toward financial freedom:
Track all spending to see where your money goes
Create a basic budget targeting 80% for living expenses
Make a plan to eliminate credit card debt
Start saving, even small amounts
Practice generosity in ways you can
Ask yourself:
Am I serving God or money with my finances?
What steps can I take this week toward financial freedom?
How can I grow in cheerful giving?
Where do I need to trust God more with my resources?
Remember: God has already given you His kingdom. Live in that freedom by managing His resources well and giving generously.
This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
