Can I Go All In?
LENT DEVOTIONAL 2026 | DAY 36
Luke 21:1–38 (NIV)
By David Mok, Lay Leader Representative
READ:
Luke 21:1–38 (NIV)
For today’s reading, the story of the widow and her two copper coins resonated with me.
Jesus was teaching in the temple courts (Luke 20) when he looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow putting in two very small copper coins. At that moment, Jesus took the opportunity to teach about giving. He said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth, but she, out of her poverty, put in all she had to live on.”
One important lesson here is that, time and again, the Bible reveals how God looks beyond our outward actions to see the true condition of our hearts. While people may judge based on visible deeds, the Lord discerns our inner motives and desires. As it says in Jeremiah 17:10, “I, the Lord, search the heart and examine the mind.” Jesus demonstrates this truth through the widow’s act of giving. He is teaching us that God measures the size of our giving not by its value, but by our heart. The big question is: What about my heart?
Another significant lesson here is the amazing faith of the widow. She “put in all she had to live on.” Such is her incredible trust in God for her daily provision! I asked myself if I did that when my family was struggling financially in our early years. Regretfully, I did not.
Drawing from my reflection, I have three main takeaways. First, I need to examine my heart when I give: Am I giving out of convenience, or am I giving sacrificially? Second, I should refrain from judging anyone—including the rich—on how much they give, as I can never truly know their circumstances at the time. Giving is ultimately between them and God. In fact, if I find myself judging others’ generosity, it is my own heart that needs examination. Third, the widow’s amazing faith inspires me. I will earnestly pray for my heart to reach a level of surrender and trust in God that approaches hers.
May our Lord Jesus grant me courage to go all in, trusting Him for His provision for my family and being bold in my attitude of generosity—all for His glory.
[ Reflection Questions ]
- Jesus measures our giving by the size of our hearts, not by its monetary value. How does this truth resonate with you and your approach to giving?
- What baby steps can you begin to take in your journey toward greater generosity?
- The widow demonstrated amazing trust in our Lord’s provision. To what extent do you rely on your own effort for your provision, and how much do you trust God to provide for you?
