In what ways can we "test" God as instructed in Malachi 3:10? Key Verse “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this,” says the LORD of Hosts. “See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure.” (Malachi 3:10) Understanding the Unique Invitation • “Test” (Hebrew bachan) means to prove or examine something that is expected to be genuine. • God—who elsewhere forbids putting Him to the test (Deuteronomy 6:16; Matthew 4:7)—makes a single, extraordinary exception regarding the tithe. • The test is not about skepticism but about obedient faith that verifies God’s faithfulness. Practical Ways to “Test” God Today • Bring the whole tithe (10 percent of all increase) to the local “storehouse,” the place where you are spiritually fed. • Give the tithe first, before any other expense (Proverbs 3:9-10). • Tithe consistently, not sporadically, so the test remains ongoing rather than occasional. • Continue tithing even when finances tighten, demonstrating trust in God’s provision (1 Kings 17:13-16). • Move beyond the tithe with free-will offerings prompted by gratitude (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Pair giving with a thankful, faith-filled attitude—God values the heart behind the gift (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Track God’s responses: unexpected income, protection from loss, spiritual fruit, or other blessings that can only be credited to His hand. What God Promises When We Obey • “Open the windows of heaven” — abundant supply that outpaces need. • “Blessing without measure” — provision in every area of life, not just finances (Ephesians 3:20). • Rebuke of “the devourer” — protection from forces that erode resources (Malachi 3:11). • Fruitfulness in labor—crops, careers, ministries that reach full potential (Malachi 3:11-12). • A testimony to others—nations “call you blessed,” spreading God’s glory (Malachi 3:12). Guardrails: Testing Versus Tempting • Testing God biblically means obeying a clear command and expecting Him to honor His word. • Tempting God means demanding proof outside His revealed will or in defiance of it (Luke 4:9-12). • We test correctly when our motive is faith; we tempt when our motive is doubt or pride. Real-Life Outcomes Believers Report • Debt retired faster than planned. • Jobs retained or gained during layoffs. • Unexpected refunds, rebates, and gifts. • Vehicles, appliances, or equipment lasting longer than projected. • Heightened joy, freedom from anxiety, and deeper intimacy with God. Getting Started 1. Calculate your increase honestly; set aside the first tenth. 2. Give it promptly to your church. 3. Record dates, amounts, and answered provisions. 4. Watch God prove Himself faithful, just as He promised. |
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