“When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required” (Luke 12:48b).

In Luke 12, Jesus begins by instructing the disciples not to worry and first seek God’s Kingdom. In verses 33-34, Jesus says to sell your possessions and give to those in need, unlocking an important principle in money management: the principle of generosity.

Generosity requires us to take our eyes off our possessions and put our focus on the Kingdom of God where it belongs. Later Jesus says, “Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.” He seems to make the point that a generous life on earth (what we treasure) will help our hearts desire a deeper relationship with God and the advancement of His Kingdom.

The more we have been given, the harder it can be to keep our focus on our love of God and not develop a love for money. By living a generous life, we invest into the Kingdom by helping people and furthering the work God has given all believers: to make disciples of all nations. Now that is a good return on our investment!

–Guest Contributor Ron Bare, Bare Wealth Advisors