The world vs the Word - on Giving

The world says: "Be sure you get what's coming to you."
The Word says: "Life doesn't consist of what you possess."

The world says: "Spend and accumulate goods."
The Word says: "Give and you will develop character."

The world says: "Wealth is a person's security."
The Word says: "Refuge in God is our security."

The world says: "You deserve the best."
The Word says: "God deserves the best."

The world says: "Give so that you may obtain favour from others."
The Word says: "Give because you have received favour from God."

The world says: "See your own gratification."
The Word says: "Offer to God your gratitude."

Prayer:
Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we Your servants pray, give us an awareness of Your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may make known Your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by offering to You what You deserve, by giving up ourselves to Your service, and by walking before You in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with You and the Holy Spirit, be all honour and glory throughout the ages. Amen.