How can we "honor the LORD with your wealth" in today's society? Honoring the LORD with Our Wealth Today “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest” (Proverbs 3:9). In Solomon’s day that meant bringing the best of grain, wine, and livestock to God. In ours, it reaches to every paycheck, investment, budget line, and swipe of a card. Recognizing God as the True Owner • Psalm 24:1—“The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof.” • 1 Chronicles 29:14—“Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from Your hand.” Embracing these truths reshapes our mindset from possessors to stewards. We manage resources that ultimately belong to Him. Putting First Things First: The Principle of Firstfruits • Set aside the first portion, not the leftovers. Whether 10 percent (Leviticus 27:30) or another prayerful amount, give off the top. • Automate generosity—direct deposit or scheduled transfers keep God’s portion untouchable. • Celebrate the act. Make giving a moment of worship, not a mechanical deduction. Practical Avenues for Honoring Him Today 1. Tithes to the local church—support the ministry that feeds you spiritually (Malachi 3:10). 2. Offerings beyond the tithe—missions, crisis relief, pro-life centers, Christian education (2 Corinthians 9:7). 3. Hospitality—budget meals and lodging for missionaries, students, or neighbors (Romans 12:13). 4. Ethical spending—choose products and companies that align with biblical values (Proverbs 16:11). 5. Debt management—pay what you owe; avoid enslaving interest (Romans 13:8; Proverbs 22:7). 6. Savings with purpose—set aside for future needs so you can give freely when God prompts (Proverbs 6:6-8). 7. Investing in people—scholarships, mentoring, job training; building others is kingdom capital (Galatians 6:10). 8. Legacy planning—wills and trusts that funnel resources to gospel work after you’re gone (Proverbs 13:22). Guarding the Heart While Handling Money • Matthew 6:21—“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Track your spending to locate your affections. • Luke 16:10—Faithfulness in small amounts paves the way for larger stewardship. • 1 Timothy 6:10—Love of money, not money itself, is the root of all kinds of evil. Cultivate contentment and gratitude. Experiencing God’s Promise of Provision Proverbs 3:10 attaches a blessing to obedience: “Then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine”. He may provide through: • Unexpected income or opportunities • Sustained health and ability to work • Joy in meeting needs of others • Eternal reward far outweighing earthly returns (Matthew 19:29) Living It Out This Week • Review last month’s bank statement—does it reflect honor to the Lord? • Adjust your budget to give first, save second, live on the rest. • Find one concrete way to bless someone financially in Jesus’ name—today. Faithful stewardship is worship in action. Every dollar, asset, and possession becomes a tool to exalt the Giver, showing a watching world that He is worthy of our very best. |
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