Ready, Set, Give
Everyone wants their child to have the best of everything, including financial prosperity. God himself wants that for us! In fact, money is one of the most talked about subjects in the Bible. If it is important to God, it should be important to us! But how and when do we practically teach our children these Biblical truths so they experience a lifetime of abundant blessings?
One of the best ways to help them understand is through a simple method using money jars. Have some fun together with this DIY project! All you need are empty, cleaned-out oatmeal, crystal light, tea containers or some Kleenex boxes, construction paper, washi tape, and markers. Then, start creating! You can make it as simple or as elaborate as you want! If you are not the crafty type, simply use envelopes. Label one “Tithes & Offerings,” one “Save,” and one “Spend.” I have done this with my daughter since she was in preschool, and as an adult, she lives a generous and abundantly blessed life. She knows firsthand the benefits of tithing and saving.
When your child receives money from someone, celebrate and thank the Lord together. Count the cash, determine the tithe (10%), then place it in the corresponding jar. Talk and pray with your child about how much more they would like to give to the Lord as an offering. Some children are natural givers, but most children need to be trained in this respect. You may also include scripture like Malachi 3:10, where God says to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse and see if I won’t pour out a blessing so big you will not have room for it, or 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 where it talks about those who sow generously will not only reap generously but God will bless abundantly. They will indeed reap what they sow, so be prepared to celebrate as God rewards them!
Secondly, do not forget to teach them to take at least 10% of their money and place it in the “Save” jar. You can use supporting scripture in Proverbs 21:20 about wise people having wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get, as well as Proverbs 6:6-8. Your child will never lack operating in Godly principles.
Lastly, put the rest in the spend jar and help them dream about the things they want to spend it on and do not forget to thank God again after that purchase. This will propel them into a life of gratitude.
God’s Word is true. He is Jehovah Jireh, our provider! As you teach your child these principles, know that greed and selfishness will not hinder their walk, they will experience every blessing that God has for them, and more than your mind could ever imagine!