By God, through us

DAILY READING

Deuteronomy 6:10-25

1 Timothy 6:17-19

FIELD NOTES

This passage in Deuteronomy cautions the Jewish people to remember that the gifts they have received and good things in their life are not a product of their own hard work, but a gift from God. It can be tempting to believe that we are the author of our own success. That the salary we earn, the house that we buy, the awards we receive are the product of our own doing. However, the Scripture instructs us that all this is on loan from God. In addition, we are reminded to “be careful that you do not forget the Lord” who has provided these things to us (Deuteronomy 6:12).

We are called to be good stewards of this abundance, “to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share” (1 Timothy 6:18). God instructs us to use the gifts and talents that have been provided to us in order to disciple others. As you go about your week, think about how God is calling you to be a steward of the gifts He has provided. 

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

• We know that we should not take credit for another person’s work. Do you apply the same standard to God? 
• How can you remind yourself that the blessings you receive are not of your doing, but a gift from God?
• How is God calling you to use the gifts you have received in stewardship? 

FAMILY FIELD TALK

• Have you ever taken credit for something that someone else did? How did it make you feel? Remember that when something good happens, this is a gift from God. What are you grateful for today?

PRAYER GUIDE

God, help us to remember that the blessings we receive are not of our own doing. Both big and small, help us to have a grateful heart. Help us to remember that all of our blessings are a gift from you. Lord teach us to use the gifts You have given us in order to serve. Amen.