Main Scripture Reference - I Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19

Other Scripture References: Exodus 20:17; Psalm 16:11; Proverbs 18:10-11; Philippians 4:12-13; Psalm 24:1; Romans 8:32; II Corinthians 9:8, 11; Matthew 6:21

INTRO–‘Covetness VS Contentment’Read Exodus 20:17

One of the biggest barriers to contentment in life is the sin of coveting. And it’s this misdirected pursuit of happiness through things and pleasure that causes people to become less and less content as they continually strive for the bigger and better. The consequence of this “affluenza” is actually pain and grief and leads down the road to many harmful traps of life. Read I Timothy 6:6-10.

• Have you ever wanted something so bad that could hardly contain yourself? Did you get it?


• How would you describe a lifestyle of simplicity and contentment? How close are you to living that out?

F=Focus–‘Looking to Heaven’Read Psalm 16:11 and Proverbs 18-10-11

To build a sound biblical economic strategy you must remain in the Faith as Paul writes Timothy. The first key to staying in the faith is focus. Joy is found in the presence of the God and all that you needs comes for the hand of God. Jesus always looked to heaven and instead of putting security in money or things, put everything into God’s hands. Money can’t protect you from life, only God can.

• How secure do you really feel right now? In what ways do you seek security in life with money, power, relationships or things?

A=Attitude–‘Always Count Your Blessings’Read Philippians 4:12-13

Coveting actually keeps you from really being thankful for all that you have already received from God’s hand. Having the right attitude of counting your blessings and knowing that God has unlimited resources will allow you to live more contently and keep your from wandering away after things that don’t really satisfy.

• How thankful and content are you for what you already have right now? Is your attitude one of gratitude towards God? Why or why not?

I=Investment–‘Investing your Resources’Read Psalm 24: & 1I Timothy 6:17-19

The problem with many people’s finances is that they are investing their time, energy, and resources into things this world values instead of what God values. There is a direct relationship between ownership and stewardship and in reality you are only a steward of everything you have because all is owned by God. Therefore true happiness and joy can only be found in using your resources investing in the values and mission of Jesus Christ; which are ministering to the poor and making disciples.

• Do you think your own values match Jesus’ values of making disciples and ministering to the poor?


• How are you investing in the eternal and well being of others versus storing up things that are temporal?

T=Trust–‘Trust in God’Read Romans 8:32 & II Corinthians 9:8, 11

To really trust in God you must believe in who God is and what God has promised. God loves you with an everlasting love and is able to bless you abundantly in all ways. You don’t have to worry about your needs at all because God is responsible for that. You are responsible for your faithfulness to God.

• Do you really trust God for your needs? How are you then working on your faithfulness to God?

H=Heart–‘Real Devotion to Jesus’Read Matthew 6:21

What stewardship reveals in people is their true devotion. How you spend your money shows where you heart and treasures reside. But if you declare that Jesus is Lord of your life you must commit to his authority and lifestyle. You shouldn’t live a simplistic and sacrificial life out of guilt or legalism. You should do it because of your love for Jesus who promises all things to those who love him, even eternal life.

• If stewardship reveals true heart devotion, what are the top five things you are devoted to? Is it proper?


• How will you commit your life to following Jesus’ authority and lifestyle in your finances this year?