Press the arrow to listen to JesusCulture.org sing “Where You Go I Go” as you read today’s devotion about money.

Scripture
But by the twenty-third year of Joash’s rule, the priests hadn’t done one thing—The Temple was as dilapidated as ever.

King Joash called Jehoiada the priest and the company of priests and said, “Why haven’t you renovated this sorry-looking Temple? You are forbidden to take any more money for Temple repairs—from now on, hand over everything you get.” 2 Kings 12:6-7 [The Message]

Observation
God’s house was dilapidated not because there wasn’t enough money but because the priests put their own needs first.  Before the house was fixed they first wanted to be paid. After all they had house payments, kids to feed and put through school. It all seemed reasonable.

But it was not acceptable. Before the workers could be paid, God’s need first had to be met. It took a leader like the King to see the problem clearly.

Application
I’ve tried to keep the principle throughout life that first the expenses of the church should be met and then my own salary as a pastor. There have been times I’ve gone without pay because of that decision. We need leaders like King Joash who see priorities clearly. May I see those priorities today. This principle is easier to remember when church planting, but when the church becomes more established it becomes fuzzy.

Prayer
Father keep my perspective clear. The church does not exist to support me, but I am here as a leader to serve the church. Thank you for the gift of income you have for me to use. I don’t take it for granted. Amen.