How can we apply the principle of giving from Exodus 25:3 today? Scriptural snapshot “ ‘And this is the offering you are to accept from them: gold, silver, and bronze;’ ” (Exodus 25:3) The heart behind the ancient offering • The materials were costly, beautiful, and durable—nothing second-rate for God’s dwelling. • The gifts were to be brought “from every man whose heart compels him” (v. 2). Giving was voluntary, joyful, and worship-driven. • The people supplied what God had first given them (Exodus 3:21-22; 12:35-36), underscoring that all resources ultimately come from the Lord. Timeless truths that carry over • God deserves our first and best, not leftovers. • True generosity flows from a willing heart, not external pressure. • Giving is part of worship; it makes a spiritual reality tangible. • God uses ordinary people’s gifts to build His dwelling place among them—then (the tabernacle), now (the church, 1 Corinthians 3:16-17). Practical ways to put it into practice today Financial resources – Set aside the “firstfruits” of each paycheck or harvest (Proverbs 3:9-10). – Support your local congregation’s ministries, keeping the lights on for gospel proclamation. – Invest in missions, relief work, and Bible translation—modern parallels to building God’s house worldwide. Time and abilities – Volunteer your skills—construction, tech, teaching, music, hospitality—just as craftsmen contributed in Exodus 31:1-6. – Mentor younger believers; your experience is as valuable as gold. Possessions – Donate quality items, not castoffs, to those in need (Hebrews 13:16). – Open your home for small-group meetings, mirroring the tabernacle’s place of gathering. Guardrails for God-honoring generosity • Give “not reluctantly or under compulsion” but “cheerful[ly]” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Maintain integrity and transparency; Moses publicly accounted for every contribution (Exodus 38:21-31). • Trust God’s provision—“test Me,” He says regarding tithe-like giving (Malachi 3:10). • Keep motives pure: seek God’s glory, not human praise (Matthew 6:1-4). Encouragement from the New Testament • Luke 6:38—“Give, and it will be given to you.” • Acts 4:32-35—the early church shared possessions, and “there were no needy persons among them.” • Philippians 4:17—Paul valued the “credit” that accrues to the giver’s heavenly account. • 1 Timothy 6:18-19—generosity stores up “treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age.” When we willingly offer our best—money, time, talents, and possessions—God still fashions a dwelling place, not of linen and acacia wood, but of redeemed people knit together in love. |
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