How does 1 Chronicles 26:28 encourage us to honor God with our resources? The Core Verse “Everything that Samuel the seer had dedicated, and Saul son of Kish, Abner son of Ner, and Joab son of Zeruiah—everything dedicated—was under the care of Shelomith and his relatives.” (1 Chronicles 26:28) Setting the Scene • Israel is organizing temple life. • Shelomith’s family of Levites receives custody of valuables dedicated to the Lord. • Generations—prophet, king, commanders—have all set apart resources for God’s house. Spotting the Pattern of Dedication • Samuel, a man of prayer and influence, consecrated what he had. • Saul, though flawed, still acknowledged God through giving. • Abner and Joab, military leaders, surrendered war spoils to the Lord. • The Levites guarded these items, ensuring they remained solely for God’s purposes. Key Lessons on Honoring God with Our Resources • God expects tangible dedication, not mere sentiment. (Proverbs 3:9 – “Honor the LORD with your wealth…”) • Every social stratum—prophet, ruler, soldier—has a stewardship role. (Psalm 24:1) • Dedication produces continuity: gifts outlive givers and bless future worship. (Philippians 4:17) • Proper oversight matters; entrusted caretakers protect what is holy. (1 Corinthians 4:2) • Even imperfect people can make pleasing offerings when they set apart possessions for God. (2 Corinthians 8:12) Practical Ways to Follow Their Example • Set aside a first-fruits portion of each paycheck specifically for kingdom work. • Donate special windfalls—bonuses, inheritances, unexpected gains—just as war spoils were given. • Support ministries that safeguard and deploy funds responsibly, mirroring Shelomith’s oversight. • Create a legacy fund or include gospel causes in a will so your resources keep serving after you’re gone. • Involve family: discuss giving goals together so stewardship becomes generational. Promises Tied to Faithful Giving • “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… and see if I will not open the floodgates of heaven.” (Malachi 3:10) • “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things… you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8) • “Then your barns will be filled with plenty.” (Proverbs 3:10) Living It Out Like Samuel and the others, treat every possession as a trust from God. Dedicate it, guard it, and release it for His glory—confident that He multiplies what is surrendered to Him. |
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