In what ways can we honor God with our resources, as instructed here? Planting with Purpose: the Heart of Leviticus 19:23 “ ‘When you enter the land and plant any kind of tree for food, regard its fruit as forbidden. For three years you are to consider it forbidden; it must not be eaten.’ ” (Leviticus 19:23) Why the Waiting? • The first three years teach restraint: the tree grows strong roots before bearing a harvest. • God builds into Israel’s calendar a rhythm that says, “Blessing is from Me; don’t seize it prematurely.” • The rule reminds every planter that the land, the tree, and the future crop belong to the Lord first (Psalm 24:1). Honoring God with Resources—Key Principles • Consecrate the First and Best – The fourth-year fruit is wholly for the Lord (Leviticus 19:24). – Parallel: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” (Proverbs 3:9–10) – Today: give before you spend—tithes, offerings, special gifts. • Practice Patient Stewardship – Patience allows resources to mature and multiply. – Jesus echoes this in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30): wise servants wait, work, and increase the master’s assets. – Delay of gratification frees us from impulsive, self-centered consumption. • Trust God for Ongoing Provision – Year five and beyond: “that its yield may increase for you. I am the LORD your God.” (Leviticus 19:25) – Malachi 3:10 affirms the same promise of abundance when we release the first portion. • Remember the Poor and the Outsider – The same chapter commands leaving field edges for the needy (Leviticus 19:9-10). – Generosity is not an optional add-on; it is integral to honoring God with what He entrusts to us (1 Timothy 6:17-18). Practical Ways to Live This Out Today • Set aside the first percentage of every paycheck or profit as worship—before any bills are paid. • Build margins (financial “edges of the field”) so you can respond to needs quickly. • Resist “eating the fruit too early”: avoid debt-driven purchases; wait until the resource is actually in hand. • Invest in kingdom causes that outlast you—missions, local church, relief work—mirroring the fourth-year dedication. • Schedule regular reviews of spending and saving practices, asking if they still display trust in God rather than in possessions (Matthew 6:19-21). • Celebrate God’s provision when increase comes; verbal praise shifts attention from the gift to the Giver. The Outcome God Promises “Then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.” (Proverbs 3:10) “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8) When we restrain, dedicate, and distribute our resources according to His pattern, we honor the Lord, bless others, and position ourselves to experience His faithful abundance. |
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