Hebrews 13:16 (MSG) reminds us “Make sure you don’t take things for granted and go slack in working for the common good; share what you have with others. God takes particular pleasure in acts of worship—a different kind of “sacrifice”—that take place in kitchen and workplace and on the streets.” This wonderful truth gives us a friendly nudge to stay engaged and not take our blessings for granted. Sharing what we have—whether it’s food, time, or a listening ear—counts as a powerful form of worship. Think about it: when we lend a hand in the kitchen, help out at work, or simply show kindness on the streets, we’re tapping into a different kind of sacrifice that really matters to God. It’s all about spreading His goodness, proving that faith isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we live out in our daily lives.
This principle came to mind during a recent conversation with my friend Sharon, who’s contemplating taking a second job. While she currently has a decent-paying position, the reality of being a single mom has forced her to make many tough decisions. Should she pay for necessities now or later? Does she prioritize replacing worn-out shoes or paying rent on time? Should she juggle the car payment or cover the electric bill? These were the difficult choices she navigated daily to keep everything afloat. “Every time I think about the many obstacles God got me and my daughter through, I can’t help but feel grateful to Him,” she shared.
Despite Sharon’s deep gratitude to God for how He brought her through some really tough times, she’s back at cutting corners to make ends meet and thinks a second job will help her get on her feet. Hebrews 13 reminds us that no matter how hard we try, we’re not the ones that hold our lives together – it’s God Almighty! He’s our Refuge, the One who oversees our finances and makes a way out of no way.
Balancing our obligation to faith with the demands of being a single parent may seem daunting at times, but we were never meant to handle it all alone. God has given us a helper: the indwelling Holy Spirit. As John 14:26 (NLT) tells us, “But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.” This promise reassures us that in moments of uncertainty or stress, we have divine support right within us.
For many, especially women without a husband at home, working every day to make ends meet can be a daunting challenge. Yet, the Word of God teaches us to share what we have and give to others in need.
You might find yourself wondering, “How can God expect me to give what I don’t have? I’m already stretched so thin!” This feeling resonates with anyone facing financial strain. After all, money often dictates our choices, and when we have enough, we can easily bless others. But when resources are tight, how do we muster the courage to give more?
The answer always circles back to faith in God.. The Words of Christ in Luke 6:38 (NLT) tells us, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” This isn’t just a nice thought; it’s law—a divine principle that promises abundance when we step out in faith. It’s about trusting that when we give—even from our limited means—we tap into something greater. By humbly allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us, we can find creative ways to share, even in small gestures.
We need to shift our perspective on money. It is not meant to own us or enslave us. Everything we have is a gift from our loving God. The reality is that nothing we possess truly belongs to us—we can’t take it with us, because it all belongs to Him. Our obligation as a child of God, is to do as 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) says: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Our Heavenly Father knows what we need even before we ask, so we don’t have to let anxiety or fear about paying the next bill consume us. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed at times—many of us have been there. But when those worries creep in, we can turn to God’s promises for reassurance. As Philippians 4:19 (NLT) reminds us, “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” This assurance encourages us to shift our focus from lack to abundance, trusting that God is aware of our struggles and ready to provide. When we remember that He’s got our back, we can find peace in the midst of uncertainty, knowing that His provision often comes in unexpected ways.
As we grapple with decisions that could impact our faith and relationship with God, let’s not lean on our own understanding but trust the Lord and seek Him with all our hearts, as Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us. There’s nothing about our circumstances that He doesn’t know, and He will show us which path to take. Our responsibility as His children is to make sure we are fully engaged in different kinds of sacrifice “that take place in kitchen and workplace and on the streets.” If we’re feeling uncertain about how to do this, we can pray and ask the Lord not only to teach us but also to reveal the opportunities to be a blessing that are already woven into our daily lives. By staying open to His leading, we can find ways to serve others and reflect His love in every situation we encounter.
When we’ve made it a priority to do all we can for God’s Kingdom using the blessings we currently have, we can be confident that He will increase and expand us. He’ll plant opportunities in our path that allow us to grow in faithfulness and operate out of His abundant overflow. With every step we take in faith, we align ourselves with His purpose, confident that He’ll provide what we need to fulfill His plans for our lives. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Single and Financially Stressed”, written by Kim Times, edited by Rev. Fran Mack and KLizzie for Sundie Morning Sistas ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord! SMS is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging Christian Women through the Word of God.