How can we apply the principles of fasting and tithing in our lives today? Setting the Scene Luke 18:12 records the Pharisee saying, “I fast twice a week and pay tithes of all that I acquire.” While Jesus exposes the pride behind these words, the practices themselves—fasting and tithing—remain God-honoring disciplines when approached with humility and faith. What Luke 18:12 Teaches - Fasting and tithing were normal, concrete habits in first-century Jewish life. - Jesus does not condemn the disciplines; He condemns self-righteous boasting (cf. Luke 18:14). - The verse reminds us that external acts must flow from an internal devotion to God. Why Fast Today? Scripture portrays fasting as: - A way to humble ourselves before God (Psalm 35:13). - A means of seeking clarity, guidance, or breakthrough (Acts 13:2-3). - An expression of repentance and renewed focus on the Lord (Joel 2:12-13). Jesus assumes His followers will fast: “When you fast…” (Matthew 6:16). Practical Steps for Fasting - Start small: Skip one meal, replacing mealtime with prayer and Scripture. - Choose purposefully: Fast for intimacy with God, not to impress others (Matthew 6:17-18). - Pair fasting with mercy: “Is not this the fast that I choose… to share your bread with the hungry?” (Isaiah 58:6-7). - Stay hydrated; consult a physician if you have health concerns. - End well: Break the fast gently, thanking God for spiritual and physical sustenance. Why Tithe Today? - Tithing predates the Mosaic Law (Genesis 14:20; Hebrews 7:1-2). - Malachi 3:10 calls God’s people to “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… test Me in this,” promising blessing. - Jesus affirms tithing while stressing justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). - Giving honors the Lord: “Honor the LORD with your wealth” (Proverbs 3:9). - The New Testament expands the principle into generous, cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Practical Steps for Tithing - Set aside the first tenth of all income as an act of worship. - Give through your local church; that is today’s “storehouse,” fueling gospel ministry and benevolence. - Budget generosity: treat giving as non-negotiable, like paying essential bills. - Move beyond the minimum as God prospers you—offerings, missions support, acts of mercy. - Give with joy and expectancy, trusting God’s promise to provide (Philippians 4:19). Bringing It Together Fasting disconnects us from worldly dependence; tithing disconnects us from worldly security. Practiced with humility and faith, both disciplines keep our hearts anchored in God’s sufficiency, stir compassionate action, and invite His blessing on every area of life. |
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