By giving systematically, preparing our gifts ahead of time, and in proportion to our level of income, we begin to create the health habit of generous giving.

To conclude, let’s look at an individual who followed God’s plan for the way we should use the money he has given us.  R.G. LaTourneau was a prolific inventor in the earthmoving industry. His machines represented nearly 70% of the earthmoving equipment used during World War II and was responsible for nearly 300 patents. But what’s more impressive is that he had an eternal mindset when it came to his money.  You see, he understood that “his” money was actually God’s money. As a result he chose to give 90% of his income and live on 10%. He was a reverse tither. In fact, he was once overheard to say, “I had to love God more than my machines and the only way I could do that was to give.” You see, as R.G. LaTourneau found out, the greatest reason for giving is that it breaks the power that money has over so many of us. Matthew records Jesus’ words: “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24).  Certainly, Jesus is talking about the motives of the heart here. Many people would say they love God, but their use of money shows that in fact they do not. How can we tell “Who” or “what” we are serving? One way is by remembering this principle: you will sacrifice for your God. If you will sacrifice for the sake of money, but will not sacrifice for the sake of Jesus, don’t deceive yourself: money is your God.

During this Christmas season of giving, ask yourself: “Who or what are you serving?”    

Steve Scalici is the CEO of Treasure Coast Financial, a financial planning firm in Stuart, FL.  He is co-host of God's Money which can be heard weekdays at www.oneplace.com . He can also be reached at his website www.tcfin.com.