In what ways can we ensure faithful giving in our modern context? Our Starting Point: Malachi’s Charge “Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing Me! But you ask, ‘How do we rob You?’ In tithes and offerings.” (Malachi 3:8) God treats withholding tithes and offerings as theft. The passage is direct, literal, and timeless. What Scripture Means by “Tithes and Offerings” • Leviticus 27:30 – the tithe (a tenth) “belongs to the LORD; it is holy.” • Numbers 18:21 – tithes support the ministry. • Deuteronomy 26:1-11 – firstfruits acknowledge God’s ownership. • Offerings go beyond the tithe—free-will gifts that express love and gratitude (Proverbs 3:9, 10). Why Faithful Giving Still Matters • Ownership: “The earth is the LORD’s” (Psalm 24:1). All we manage already belongs to Him. • Worship: Giving is an act of honor (Proverbs 3:9). • Trust: We declare dependence on God, not on wealth (Matthew 6:19-21). • Mission: Tithes sustain gospel work (1 Corinthians 9:13-14). Practical Ways to Ensure Faithful Giving Today • Set the First Line of the Budget: Treat the tithe as non-negotiable, not a leftover. • Automate: Use bank drafts or online giving so obedience isn’t forgotten in a busy month. • Start at 10 Percent; Grow Beyond: The tithe is floor, not ceiling—plan sacrificial offerings for missions, mercy ministries, and the needy (Acts 4:34-35). • Give Through the Local Church: Malachi’s “storehouse” points to today’s congregation as primary channel (1 Timothy 5:17-18). • Review Regularly: Track income increases and adjust giving upward. • Cultivate Contentment: Curb lifestyle inflation so generosity can expand (1 Timothy 6:6-10). • Model for the Next Generation: Share testimony of God’s faithfulness with children and young believers (Psalm 78:4). • Maintain Transparency: Couples, elders, or accountability partners can confirm that giving is consistent and cheerful. Guarding the Heart Against Modern Temptations • Materialism: “You cannot serve God and money” (Matthew 6:24). • Fear of Lack: Remember God’s promise to supply every need (Philippians 4:19). • Convenience Culture: Resist impulse spending that erodes capacity to give. • Digital Distractions: Let financial apps and alerts serve giving goals, not undermine them. God’s Invitation and Promise “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse… and test Me in this… see if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing” (Malachi 3:10-12). The blessing may include provision, protection, and spiritual fruitfulness. New-Testament Echoes • 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 – sow bountifully, give cheerfully. • Luke 6:38 – “Give, and it will be given to you.” • Hebrews 7:1-10 – the tithe predates the Law, rooted in Abraham’s faith. Putting It All Together • God owns everything; we manage it for His glory. • The tithe is a clear, ongoing standard; offerings flow from joyful gratitude. • Intentional planning, technological tools, and accountability help translate conviction into consistent practice. • Faithful giving unlocks God’s promised blessings and fuels Kingdom work today. |
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