How can we apply the example of Ezra 2:69 to our financial stewardship? Setting the scene Ezra 2 recounts the first wave of exiles returning from Babylon to Jerusalem. Verse 69 highlights how that fledgling community bankrolled the rebuilding effort: “They gave according to their ability to the treasury for the work — 61,000 darics of gold, 5,000 minas of silver, and 100 priestly garments.” (Ezra 2:69) What stands out in the verse • “They gave” — voluntary, not coerced • “According to their ability” — proportionate, not identical amounts • “to the treasury for the work” — purpose-driven, kingdom-focused • Specific sums listed — transparent, accountable giving Timeless stewardship principles • Give willingly ‣ No arm-twisting; hearts stirred by gratitude (cf. 1 Chronicles 29:9). • Give proportionately ‣ God measures faithfulness, not dollar amounts (cf. Mark 12:41-44). • Give purposefully ‣ Invest in work that advances God’s house and mission (cf. Philippians 4:15-17). • Give transparently ‣ Clear records protect integrity and build trust (cf. 2 Corinthians 8:20-21). Putting it into practice today 1. Calculate “ability” • List income streams and fixed expenses. • Pray over what percentage demonstrates joyful trust. 2. Prioritize God’s work first • Automate giving so the Lord’s portion isn’t what’s left over (Proverbs 3:9-10). 3. Support mission-critical ministries • Local church, global outreach, mercy needs — work that lifts Christ high. 4. Keep records • Track gifts; review annually to guard consistency (Romans 14:12). 5. Stay open-handed • Leave margin for spontaneous generosity when the Spirit prompts (Luke 6:38). Scripture encouragements for generous living • 2 Corinthians 9:7 — “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” • Malachi 3:10 — “‘Test Me in this,’ says the LORD Almighty, ‘and see if I will not open the floodgates of heaven…’” • Acts 4:32-35 — Early believers met needs so “there were no needy persons among them.” Takeaway Ezra 2:69 shows ordinary people funding an extraordinary work by giving willingly, proportionately, and transparently. Embracing those same rhythms today lets our finances tell the story of a heart set on God’s kingdom first. |
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