Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 19: Financial and Material Integrity
- Baptist Daily Devotional
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Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | December 7 2025 | Acts 20:33-35
KEY VERSE: “I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel.” (Acts 20:33, ESV)
MESSAGE:
Financial and material integrity remains one of the weakest areas in the life of the Church and para-church institutions. Many have stumbled where money and possessions are involved, and the consequences are often painful. Paul’s example in this passage offers principles we must pay close attention to.
We are not told exactly why Paul returned to the subject of money here, but the emphasis is unmistakable. Like Samuel in his farewell address (1 Samuel 12:1ff), Paul reminded the Ephesian elders that during his three years with them, he handled resources with clean hands and a pure conscience. Those who work closely with you know whether you are truthful or not. Paul could speak boldly because he lived transparently.
How was he able to maintain such integrity? He worked to support himself and his team. In 1 Corinthians 9:1-18, Paul teaches that although they had the right to receive support, they willingly waived that right so the ministry would not be hindered. His life showed discipline, sacrifice, and a deep awareness of the impact of his example.
Paul then gives three motivations for his conduct:
To help the weak. By working and waiving his rights, he positioned himself to support those with genuine needs.
To model a pattern for others. His life was a teaching tool for those who watched him.
To obey Jesus’ own words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” This saying shaped his attitude toward wealth, possessions, and generosity.
In 2 Corinthians 8:16-24, Paul provides additional financial safeguards. His guiding principle stands out in verse 21: “We aim at what is honourable not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man.”Such a mindset guards us from what he called “disgraceful, underhanded ways” (2 Corinthians 4:2).
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Financial and material integrity is urgently needed today. Paul’s life challenges every believer, every leader, and every ministry worker. Integrity is not proven by words but by consistent choices. Let your financial dealings be honourable before God and also unquestionable before people. Choose transparency. Choose accountability. Choose generosity. These practices strengthen your witness and protect the work of God in your hands.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, You have raised men and women who walked in financial and material integrity. Strengthen my heart to do the same. Keep my conscience clear, my motives pure, and my conduct honourable before You and before others. Let my life bring glory to Your name. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: COVETED Coveted comes from the Greek word ἐπιθυμέω (epithymeō).
It means to long for, desire earnestly, set your heart upon, often referring to strong inward cravings—especially for what belongs to someone else.
Paul showed that his heart remained free from unhealthy desires. He stayed focused on his assignment, not on what others owned. His hands worked, his motives stayed pure, and nothing material became his pursuit. This word reveals the strength of a life anchored in contentment and integrity.
Reflect on this:
God calls us to that same inner steadiness. We can serve with clean motives, work with honest hands, and keep our hearts free from desires that distract us from the work He has given us. When our hearts remain clear, our ministry remains strong.
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