Give From Within

Scripture: But give as alms those things that are within, and behold, n everything is clean for you. Luke 11:41

Observation: Jesus is responding to a religious professional who is aghast that Jesus did not ceremonially wash his hands before a meal. Jesus retorts that the real rules people should keep are not external, but internal. Instead of following traditions of men to please God, give your heart.

Application: Someone who prays before the meal is holding to a tradition, but if the ensuing conversation is dishonoring to God, then what is the point of the ceremony? Jesus would rather me give of my heart—thankful for the meal, seeking His opportunities during the conversation—than he would a tip of the hat to Him which I promptly ignore. What are rituals I follow that are external? Where is God calling me to give from what is within? I happily give 10% of my income back to God; where is the tithe of my heart?

Prayer: God, show me today traditions I follow that are not in sync with my heart. Show me where I need to give alms from within.