Don't Waste Your Life

I have been reading the book, Don't Waste Your Life, by John Piper. It's a good read and has challenged me  in many ways. When I can I will read a few paragraphs in the morning or before bed.

Something that has stuck out is gladly making other glad in God.

2 Corinthians 8:2

"In a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity...God loves a cheerful giver."

John Piper said, "Our lives must look as if we use our possessions to make people glad in God-especially the most needy."

Quite opposite of the prosperity gospel, don't you think? I sometimes find myself giving with wrong intentions. More like wanting to be liked, or made to look good. Basically, it becomes all about myself and not giving because I want others to be glad in Christ.

It's more than just giving things or possessions. It's giving time, a listening ear, talents etc. Of course this is done with joy in God, otherwise it's just doing, not being.

Sure I want that pretty clock I keep seeing at my favorite coffee shop in the center (which thanks to my accountability partner found it cheaper in a bigger market!). 

But as my wonderful financial advisor, Mikko, does monthly financial reports, we realize how crazy the euro is ($1.56 for 1 Euro). I mean there are little old ladies giving all they have to fund our stay here. 

So hence the recycling, re-sewing of clothes, mending of books, saving bottles for food money, shopping at outlets and flea markets, shopping at cheaper food stores, using clothe diapers and buying in bulk. The list can go on.

I don't want to be a greedy person. I want to work on not saying, "That's so expensive" or "We can't afford it". I much rather the joy of the Lord pour out of me than focus on constant price rises of milk and produce. 

I am so grateful for a hubby who guides us out of debt and helps to help others at the same time. I must also keep in mind all the hosting we do. The point of hosting is serve and pray Christ is magnified in it.