In what ways can we apply the principle of offering to God today? Setting the Scene Numbers 31:28 records a clear directive: “Set apart a tribute for the LORD from the men of war who went out to battle: one of every five hundred of the people, cattle, donkeys, and sheep.” The Israelites were to recognize that every victory, every possession, ultimately came from God. By returning a specified portion, they acknowledged His sovereignty and expressed gratitude. The Heart Behind the Tribute • Ownership: Psalm 24:1 — “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein.” • Gratitude: Deuteronomy 8:18 urges remembering “the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth.” • Worship: Offerings were an act of adoration, not mere obligation (1 Chronicles 29:14). Translating the Principle to Today 1. Financial Firstfruits • Proverbs 3:9 — “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • Practical step: set aside the first portion of every paycheck for kingdom work—local church, missions, benevolence. 2. Regular, Generous Giving • 2 Corinthians 9:7 — “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” • Beyond tithes, cultivate spontaneous generosity toward needs God places before you. 3. Time and Talents • 1 Peter 4:10 — “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” • Volunteer in ministries, mentor younger believers, employ professional skills for kingdom projects. 4. Daily Life as a Living Offering • Romans 12:1 — “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual service of worship.” • Holiness in choices, purity in relationships, integrity at work are continual offerings. 5. Praise and Thanksgiving • Hebrews 13:15 — “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name.” • Cultivate habitual gratitude, worshiping God vocally in private and corporate settings. 6. Acts of Mercy • Hebrews 13:16 — “And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” • Support the poor, visit the sick, foster the orphan, fund relief efforts. 7. Stewardship of Possessions • Luke 16:9 reminds us to “use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.” • Budget intentionally, live below means, leverage assets for eternal impact. 8. Surrendered Plans and Future • James 4:15 — “You ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’” • Offer ambitions and career decisions to God’s direction, trusting His purposes. Why It Matters • Reflects God’s character of generosity (John 3:16). • Breaks the grip of materialism (Matthew 6:24). • Funds gospel advancement (Philippians 4:18). • Demonstrates faith that God will supply every need (Philippians 4:19). Just as Israel counted spoils and set aside a tribute, believers today intentionally set apart portions of all God entrusts—money, time, skills, praise, and plans—as tangible declarations that He alone is Lord. |
    |