Command 8: Give

Here is Mark 12:41-44 from the New International Version (NIV):

41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.

43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for the powerful lesson in this passage. Thank You for the example of the widow, who gave all she had out of her love and trust in You.

Lord, help us to understand and apply the truths from this story. Teach us the value of sacrificial giving, not just in terms of money but in our time, talents, and resources. Help us to give with a cheerful and generous heart, trusting that You will provide for all our needs.

Father, we confess that sometimes we hold back out of fear or selfishness, focusing on what we lack rather than what we can give. Forgive us for our lack of faith and generosity, and help us to trust You completely, just as the widow did.

Lord, we ask for Your guidance in how we steward what You have given us. Help us to prioritize Your kingdom and to give in ways that honor You and bless others. May our giving reflect our love for You and our desire to see Your work advance in the world.

Thank You for the reminder that You value the heart behind our giving more than the amount. Help us to give with sincerity, humility, and joy, knowing that everything we have comes from You.

In Jesus' name, we pray,

Amen.