In what ways can we honor God through our own "offerings" today? Setting the Foundation—Proverbs 3:9–10 “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.” Why Offerings Still Matter • Offerings are a tangible declaration that everything belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). • They testify that we trust His provision more than our own resources (Malachi 3:10–11). • They align our hearts with His kingdom priorities (Matthew 6:19–21). What Counts as an Offering Today? Scripture shows that offerings extend far beyond ancient animal sacrifices: • Finances (2 Corinthians 9:6–8) • Time and availability (Ephesians 5:15–16) • Talents and skills (1 Peter 4:10–11) • Material possessions (Acts 4:34–35) • Acts of mercy and hospitality (Hebrews 13:16) • Praise and worship (Hebrews 13:15) Practical Ways to Honor God through Our Offerings Finances • Set aside the “firstfruits” of each paycheck, not the leftovers. • Give regularly to the local church (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Support missionaries, biblical charities, and believers in need (Philippians 4:15–18). Time • Schedule daily moments that belong exclusively to the Lord—prayer, Bible reading, serving others. • Volunteer in ministries that advance the gospel (Galatians 6:9–10). Talents • Use professional skills—teaching, carpentry, administration, music—for kingdom projects (Exodus 35:30–35; Romans 12:6–8). • Offer creative gifts in worship services or community outreach. Possessions • Open your home for small groups or Christian hospitality (1 Peter 4:9). • Loan vehicles, tools, or equipment to believers and neighbors when they have need (Luke 6:30). Acts of Mercy • Visit the sick, imprisoned, or lonely (Matthew 25:34–40). • Share meals with the hungry and clothe those lacking essentials (Isaiah 58:6–8). Praise and Worship • Continual thanksgiving is called a “sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15). • Corporate singing, personal devotion, and testimonies publicly honor Him. Heart Attitudes That Please God • Cheerfulness—“God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Humility—give in secret, seeking His approval, not people’s applause (Matthew 6:3–4). • Willingness—offerings must be voluntary, not coerced (Exodus 25:2). • Sincerity—offer first yourself to the Lord, then your gifts (2 Corinthians 8:5). The Fruit of Faithful Offerings • Spiritual growth: giving loosens the grip of materialism (1 Timothy 6:17–19). • Gospel expansion: resources accelerate mission work (Romans 10:14–15). • Community needs met: the early church had “no needy person among them” (Acts 4:34). • Eternal reward: treasures laid up in heaven will never fade (Matthew 6:20). Living It Out Every paycheck, free evening, and skill set is a new opportunity to declare, “Lord, it’s all Yours.” When offerings flow from grateful hearts, they rise like “a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God” (Philippians 4:18). |
    |