What other biblical examples show the importance of contributing to God's purposes? The starting snapshot: Exodus 35:28 “and spice and olive oil for the light, for the anointing oil, and for the fragrant incense.” The verse sits in the wider narrative of Israel eagerly supplying every material needed for the tabernacle. Their giving became a living testimony that God’s work is accomplished through willing hearts and willing hands. Scripture keeps repeating this pattern. Seeing the pattern of partnership God can act alone, yet He consistently invites His people to join Him. Throughout the Bible He blesses, multiplies, and memorializes every offering—large or small—brought in faith. Old Testament snapshots • Exodus 35:21 – “The whole congregation… everyone whose heart stirred him… brought the LORD’s offering.” They contributed so lavishly that Moses had to stop them (Exodus 36:6-7). • Numbers 7:1-3 – Tribal leaders bring carts and oxen for the tabernacle’s transport, showing leadership by example. • 1 Chronicles 29:3-9 – David says, “Because of my delight in the house of my God, I have given… over and above all that I have provided.” The leaders join in, and “the people rejoiced at the willing response.” • 2 Kings 12:4-15 – During Joash’s reforms a chest is set at the temple door; freewill offerings finance urgent repairs. • 2 Chronicles 31:5-10 – Hezekiah’s restoration leads the people to pile up tithes “in heaps,” so plentiful that the priests bless the LORD. • Nehemiah 7:70-72 – Governors, priests, and common people fund wall reconstruction; God records each gift. • 1 Kings 17:9-16 – A starving widow shares her last meal with Elijah; her flour and oil never run out. • 2 Kings 4:8-10 – A Shunammite woman builds a small upper room for Elisha; God later rewards her with a son. New Testament echoes • Mark 12:41-44 – Jesus commends a widow who “out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.” Her two small coins become an eternal lesson. • John 6:8-13 – A boy’s five loaves and two fish feed thousands; surrendered resources become supernatural supply. • Luke 8:1-3 – “Certain women… were helping to support them out of their own means,” financing Jesus’ itinerant ministry. • Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-37 – Early believers sell possessions; needs are met and gospel witness expands. • Acts 11:29-30 – Disciples in Antioch “each decided, according to his ability, to send relief” to Judean brethren, demonstrating global responsibility in Christ. • 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 – Macedonian churches, “in extreme poverty,” beg for the grace of giving and exceed Paul’s expectations. • Philippians 4:15-19 – Their repeated gifts to Paul lead to the assurance, “My God will supply all your needs.” • Acts 9:36-39 – Dorcas sews garments for widows; her practical generosity becomes part of her resurrection story. • Matthew 27:57-60 – Joseph of Arimathea donates his own tomb; the Lord’s burial place fulfills prophecy. Heart motivations God honors • Willingness over wealth – Exodus 35, Mark 12 • Sacrifice over surplus – 2 Samuel 24:24; 2 Corinthians 8:3 • Joyful participation – 1 Chronicles 29:9; 2 Corinthians 9:7 • Faith in God’s supply – 1 Kings 17:14; Philippians 4:19 • Kingdom vision – Luke 8:3; Acts 4:32-33 Take-away truths • God’s purposes advance when His people release what He’s already placed in their hands. • Every contribution—materials, money, skills, space, or simple meals—becomes holy when offered to the Lord. • Generosity keeps God’s work moving forward and keeps our hearts anchored in trust. • From Exodus to Revelation, Scripture registers and rewards those who partner with God; our offerings echo into eternity. |
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