In what ways can we apply the principle of giving from our blessings? The Core Principle in Numbers 18:26 “Speak to the Levites and tell them: ‘When you receive from the Israelites the tithe I have given you as your inheritance, you must present a tenth of that tithe as an offering to the LORD.’” - God required even the Levites—who lived on the people’s tithes—to return a tithe of their own share. - The standard is clear: every blessing, no matter how it comes to us, is ultimately the Lord’s and is to be shared back with Him. Why God Honors Giving From Our Overflow - It acknowledges His ownership (Psalm 24:1). - It trains our hearts away from greed (Deuteronomy 8:17-18). - It supports His work and His workers (Galatians 6:6). - It becomes a testimony of faith that God will keep providing (Malachi 3:10). Practical Ways To Give From Our Blessings Today - Regular percentage giving • Start with a tithe of all income (Proverbs 3:9). • As the Lord prospers, consider offerings beyond the tithe (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). - Spontaneous generosity • Keep a small “blessing fund” ready for needs you meet on the spot (Luke 10:33-35). - Skill-based service • Offer professional abilities—e.g., teach, repair, counsel—free of charge to ministries (1 Peter 4:10). - Hospitality • Open your home for Bible studies, meals, or lodging missionaries (Romans 12:13). - Time and attention • Visit the lonely, pray with the hurting, mentor the young (James 1:27). Safeguards For The Heart - Give first, not last, so God is honored before anything else (Exodus 23:19). - Refuse to parade your gifts; seek God’s “well done,” not public applause (Matthew 6:1-4). - Remember the widow’s two small coins: value is measured by sacrifice, not size (Luke 21:1-4). Scripture Connections That Reinforce The Pattern - Genesis 14:20—Abram gives a tenth to Melchizedek. - Leviticus 27:30—“A tithe of everything from the land… belongs to the LORD.” - Acts 4:34-35—Early believers lay resources at the apostles’ feet to meet needs. - 1 Timothy 6:17-19—The wealthy are charged to be “rich in good works… storing up treasure for themselves.” A Vision Of Generous Living As the Levites tithed on their tithe, so we gladly dedicate a portion of every blessing—income, skills, possessions, time—back to the One who gave all. In doing so we mirror His own generosity, strengthen the ministry of the gospel, and lay hold of the life that is truly life. |
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