In what ways can we apply the principles of sharing resources today? Setting the Scene: Numbers 31:32 “The spoil that remained from the plunder the troops had taken totaled 675,000 sheep”. After Israel’s victory over Midian, God ordered the plunder divided: half to the warriors, half to the rest of the community. From each half, a set portion went to the LORD—one part supporting the priestly ministry, the other caring for the Levites. The distribution was transparent, proportionate, and worship-centered. Timeless Principles • God owns every resource; we are stewards, not owners (Psalm 24:1). • Work and warfare both produce increase, yet God expects a portion to be returned to Him. • Benefits are shared by all, not hoarded by a few. • Ministry workers receive tangible support from the community (1 Corinthians 9:13-14). • Clear accounting protects unity and honors God (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). Practical Ways to Share Resources Today • Tithe faithfully, giving the first tenth of income to your local church for Gospel ministry. • Set aside a “plunder portion” of every bonus, tax refund, or unexpected gain for kingdom work. • Contribute to benevolence or deacon funds that meet urgent needs inside the congregation. • Partner with missionaries and church planters, treating their support as part of your family budget. • Open your home for meals, Bible studies, and short-term housing—hospitality is a resource. • Volunteer professional skills—legal advice, carpentry, tech expertise—to those who cannot afford them. • Pool resources with other believers for debt-free adoptions, medical bills, or crisis relief. • Create or fund micro-enterprise loans that help brothers and sisters become self-supporting. Heart Attitudes Behind Sharing • Cheerfulness—“God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Worship—honoring the LORD with the firstfruits (Proverbs 3:9). • Compassion—meeting a brother’s need proves love is genuine (James 2:15-16). • Humility—remembering we once lacked and God provided (Deuteronomy 8:17-18). Connecting the Dots: Other Scriptures • Acts 2:44-45—early believers held possessions loosely and sold property to meet needs. • Luke 3:11—“Anyone who has two tunics should share with him who has none.” • Malachi 3:10—faith-filled giving opens heaven’s windows. • Galatians 6:10—“Do good to everyone, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Wrap-Up: Walking It Out Treat every paycheck, possession, and skill as plunder entrusted by the King. Before spending, decide what portion goes back to Him, what helps fellow believers, and what advances the Gospel. By mirroring the orderly, generous division in Numbers 31, we testify that our treasure—and our hearts—belong to the LORD. |
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