Pastor Joynt's Devotionals

Questions Week 17, Day 7

HEBREWS 13:5

There is another concern about capitalism that I am less sure how to evaluate and constrain. That is it’s cultural impact. Marketing and selling products has invaded every space in our lives, or so it often feels. Advertising is a constant barrage, and it is the drumbeat under entertainment, sports, digital life, and even transportation, where there are now ads on the bus, in the sky train, on the elevator, and, of course, on the billboards lining the roadways. It sometimes feels as if the force of the market is overwhelming other spheres of life. Desire and sexuality, for instance, is misused to sell things, rather than to enhance covenants and family life.

How do you resist the barrage?

FAMILY TIME—

How much quiet, ad-free time do you experience daily?

Questions Week 17, Day 6

MATTHEW 6:19-21

2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-9

Another constraining aspect of the Christian life is our emphasis on generosity. Biblical teaching about wealth stresses both the joy and danger of material blessing. Accumulation can become hoarding all too often unless we cultivate a sense of responsibility for those who are suffering and in need. Success is an opportunity to share and bless others. I am very grateful for the many men and women in our community who have worked hard and succeeded, who have saved and invested, and who now share their resources wisely and generously. The measure of a society is not average income or GDP, but how we care for the vulnerable.

Do you tithe? If so, how has it impacted your life?

If not, why not? Are you storing up treasures in Heaven?

FAMILY TIME—

Show your kids the generosity section of your family budget.

Explain why this is vital for Christian disciples.