How can we apply the principle of giving according to our means today? Getting Oriented: Leviticus 14:31 in Context • God gives detailed instructions for the cleansing of a person healed of a skin disease. • When someone could not afford the standard animals, verse 31 allows smaller, less-costly birds: “one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering, together with the grain offering. In this way the priest will make atonement on his behalf before the LORD” (Leviticus 14:31). • The Lord’s concern is not the size of the sacrifice but that it is brought in faith and obedience. What the Passage Teaches about Giving • God expects offerings, yet He makes room for economic differences. • Faithful giving is measured by proportion, not comparison. • The integrity of worship remains intact even when the gift is smaller, because atonement is still granted. Echoes Throughout Scripture • Leviticus 5:7 – the poor can bring birds instead of a lamb. • Deuteronomy 16:17 – “Everyone must appear with a gift as he is able, according to the blessing the LORD your God has given you.” • 2 Corinthians 8:12 – “the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.” • Acts 11:29 – each disciple sent relief “according to his ability.” • Luke 21:3-4 – the widow’s two small coins outweighed richer gifts in God’s sight. Principles to Carry into Daily Life 1. Give proportionately • Set aside a percentage of income rather than chasing a fixed public standard. • When income fluctuates, adjust rather than guilt-tripping yourself. 2. Give first, not last • Budget generosity before discretionary spending. • This keeps giving from shrinking to the leftovers. 3. Give willingly • 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds that “God loves a cheerful giver.” • Compulsion drains joy; voluntary sacrifice fuels it. 4. Give thoughtfully • Pray through needs in church, missions, and benevolence funds. • Direct gifts where they maximize Gospel impact and tangible help. 5. Give creatively • Time, skills, meals, tools, spare rooms, and listening ears all count as resources. • The heart behind the gift matters more than the form it takes. Guardrails to Keep Our Giving Healthy • Reject comparison—God measures faithfulness, not dollar signs. • Beware pride—large gifts do not purchase extra favor. • Keep priorities straight—family responsibilities and honest debts are part of stewardship (1 Timothy 5:8; Romans 13:7-8). Encouragement for Every Season • Tight budget? Start small and steady; God receives it gladly. • Abundance? Leverage the surplus for kingdom work and relief of others. • Changing circumstances? Adjust the amount, never the commitment. By following these patterns—rooted in Leviticus 14:31 and woven throughout Scripture—believers today can give joyfully, responsibly, and according to the means God has provided. |
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