How can we apply the principle of tithing to modern financial stewardship? Setting the Foundation: Leviticus 27:32 “Every tenth animal from the herd or flock that passes under the shepherd’s rod will be holy to the LORD.” (Leviticus 27:32) What Tithing Revealed in Israel • Ownership – God claimed the first tenth, underscoring that all ultimately belongs to Him (Psalm 24:1). • Priority – The tithe came before any other use of livestock or crops (Proverbs 3:9-10). • Worship – Giving was an act of devotion, not merely a financial transaction (Deuteronomy 14:22-23). • Trust – Surrendering a significant portion trained hearts to rely on God’s provision (Malachi 3:10). Timeless Principles for Today 1. God still owns everything; we remain managers (1 Corinthians 4:2). 2. First-fruits giving declares His worth before any expense is paid. 3. Intentional generosity forms spiritual muscle memory, shaping character (Matthew 6:21). 4. Obedience invites blessing, though not always in material form (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). Stepping into Modern Stewardship • Set the baseline: Aim to give at least ten percent of every paycheck before taxes or bills. • Automate: Schedule transfers or write the check immediately so giving isn’t an afterthought. • Local church first: Support the ministry that feeds you spiritually (1 Timothy 5:17-18). • Extend beyond: Missions, mercy ministries, and benevolence offerings mirror Israel’s additional contributions (Numbers 18:26, Acts 2:45). • Review annually: As income rises, prayerfully raise the percentage; don’t freeze at ten. Giving Beyond the Ten Percent • Freewill offerings: Paul encouraged believers to give “what he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Acts of mercy: “If anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need… let us not love in word or speech but in action” (1 John 3:17-18). • Legacy planning: Wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations can funnel resources into kingdom work after we’re gone. Guardrails for a God-Honoring Budget – Give first. – Save second (Proverbs 21:20). – Live on the rest, resisting debt as slavery (Proverbs 22:7). – Track spending monthly; what gets measured gets managed (Luke 14:28-30). Blessings Linked to Faithful Giving • Provision: “Test Me in this,” says the LORD, “and see if I will not open the windows of heaven” (Malachi 3:10). • Contentment: Generosity disentangles hearts from materialism (1 Timothy 6:6-8). • Eternal fruit: Investments in God’s kingdom earn “treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). • Gospel witness: Cheerful giving showcases the grace we have received (2 Corinthians 9:13-14). Encouragement to Start Now Even if ten percent feels impossible today, begin with a faith-stretching fraction, commit to consistent increases, and watch God honor the desire to place Him first. The same Lord who called Israel to holiness through the tithe still invites His people to joyful, wholehearted stewardship. |
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