How can we apply the principle of sacrificial giving in our lives today? Historical snapshot: Asa’s costly offering “At that time they sacrificed to the LORD seven hundred cattle and seven thousand sheep from the plunder they had brought back.” – 2 Chronicles 15:11 • A literal, public act of worship that involved real wealth. • The animals were part of the war spoils—resources the people could have kept. • The offering followed spiritual renewal (vv. 8–10); giving became proof of genuine repentance and covenant loyalty. Key traits of sacrificial giving • Costly – “I will not offer…that which costs me nothing” (2 Samuel 24:24). • Voluntary – no coercion; the people chose to give. • God-first – the best portions went to the LORD before anything else was enjoyed. • Communal – the whole assembly participated; sacrificial giving strengthens corporate faith. • Worship-centered – not fundraising, but devotion. Consistent biblical witness • Abraham laid Isaac on the altar (Genesis 22). • Widow’s two mites (Mark 12:41-44). • Macedonians gave “beyond their ability” (2 Corinthians 8:3-5). • Early believers sold possessions to meet needs (Acts 4:34-35). • “Do not neglect to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:16). Practical avenues today Finances • Tithe cheerfully to the local church before other expenses. • Create a “firstfruits” line in the budget for missionary work, crisis relief, or pro-life ministries. Time • Dedicate a weekly block to serve—teaching children, visiting shut-ins, mentoring teens. Skills & talents • Offer professional expertise (medical, legal, technical) to believers and outreach projects without charge. Possessions • Open the home for Bible studies or refuge to those in transition. • Loan vehicles or equipment to families in need rather than letting them sit idle. Lifestyle choices • Downsize optional luxuries so larger portions can advance the gospel. • Delay upgrades (phone, car, vacation) to bankroll Bibles for unreached languages. Long-range giving • Establish charitable trusts or bequests that keep supporting kingdom causes after earthly life ends. Blessings Scripture attaches • “Give, and it will be given to you…pressed down, shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38). • “My God will supply all your needs” (Philippians 4:19). • “Bring the whole tithe… see if I will not open the floodgates of heaven” (Malachi 3:10). • “It is well with the man who is gracious and lends” (Psalm 112:5). Heart safeguards • Maintain secrecy where possible—“do not let your left hand know” (Matthew 6:3). • Give willingly—“God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Remember ownership—“The earth is the LORD’s” (Psalm 24:1). • Pair gifts with obedience; offerings never replace holiness (1 Samuel 15:22). Living it out this week • Identify one comfort you can surrender to free resources. • Schedule a ministry slot on the calendar before other appointments crowd it out. • Move a percentage of income into an automatic transfer for kingdom work. • Tell the Lord, “All I am and have is Yours,” and let actions confirm the words. |
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