How can we apply the principle of sacrificial giving in our lives today? Setting the scene “On the ninth day Abidan son of Gideoni, the leader of the Benjamites, brought his offering.” (Numbers 7:60) What sacrificial giving looked like then • Every tribal leader brought the same costly gifts—no shortcuts, no comparisons. • Offerings were voluntary yet public, expressing gratitude for God’s presence in the tabernacle. • The leaders gave on behalf of their people, demonstrating that generosity blesses the whole community. Principles carried forward • Giving is a response to God’s initiative, not a means to earn His favor (1 John 4:19). • True generosity costs something valuable to the giver (2 Samuel 24:24). • God desires equal commitment, not equal amounts (2 Corinthians 8:12). • Public faithfulness encourages others to worship (Hebrews 10:24). Everyday expressions of sacrificial giving today Time – Set aside undistracted hours to serve at church or mentor a younger believer. – Sabbath rest: surrendering productivity for worship shows we trust God’s provision. Resources – Prioritize first-fruits giving in your budget before any other expense (Proverbs 3:9-10). – Live below your means so that unexpected needs can be met quickly (Acts 4:34-35). Talents – Offer professional skills—accounting, carpentry, teaching—to ministries that cannot afford them. – Use hospitality gifts to open your home for small-group gatherings. Guarding the heart while giving • Give “not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Examine motives: is Christ exalted or self recognized? (Matthew 6:1-4). • Remember widows’ mites—faithfulness matters more than size (Luke 21:1-4). Encouragement from other Scriptures • Philippians 4:18—our gifts are “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” • Malachi 3:10—obedient giving invites God’s open-windows blessing. • Romans 12:1—every area of life becomes an altar when offered to God. Living it out together 1. Discuss family priorities and set giving goals that stretch faith. 2. Keep testimonies flowing in your congregation so generosity fuels more generosity. 3. Celebrate every gift—large or small—as evidence of God at work among His people. Sacrificial giving remains a tangible expression of love for the Lord who first gave everything for us. |
    |