When we live generously, save wisely, and live appropriately - it postures us to use the resources God has placed in our hands for good.  And it is "so good" to be a blessing to others. You get this as a church. But let's be real - even if we do all those things right, our reality is that we are quite vulnerable. So, we need to be prepared to live with margin, and be ready for the moments. And then we live with open hands. Oh, and don't miss this - the steward understands from the outset - this isn't my stuff. Everything I have is a temporary gift - for which I will give an account. It is all His!

Going Through the Motions with My Stuff

Margin, Moments, and Open Hands

2 Kings 7:1-11

"Be still, and know that I am God!" - Psalm 46:10

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." - Luke 12:34 (NIV)

Awaken to the Lack of Margin in your life

see verse 4

Psalm 103:1-2 (NIV), "Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits---"

Become attuned to the God Moments in your life

see verse 9

Strive to live with Open Hands

v9a, "This is not right!"

1 Chronicles 29:14, (NIV) "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand."

Final Thought: 

Deuteronomy 15:7b-8, (NKJV), "...you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your poor brother. But you shall open your hand wide to him and willingly lend him sufficient for his need, whatever he needs."