The command not to steal is rooted in the positive vision of God’s goodness and provision. It’s (usually) easy enough not to steal, but the real call is to a life of generosity rooted in a trust in God’s generosity.

God’s Spirit is given to us to transform us from. We are sometimes people who look good on the outside, but are trapped by our desire to take what seems good in our own eyes.

The Spirit can make us into people that truly reflect the image of God. We can reflect His abundance and generosity. We can become more and more like Jesus.

This is my prayer for you:

Soften our hearts by your Holy Spirit.

Expose where we would hold onto lies, that we can achieve security through seeking financial control; hoarding and accumulating.
Help us have the freedom to accept your beautiful invitation, so generously and freely offered, to life - true life.
Make us people who are not devoured by our desires, to do what seems right in our own eyes, but people who devour your word.
Put us in community with one another so that the enemy, who prowls around like a hungry lion, won’t pick us off and devour us.
Thank you that you have promised that you will never leave or forsake us.
That you are preparing us, your Church, to be ready for your return.
That you promise not even the gates of hell will prevail against your Church.