In what ways can we prioritize God's portion in our resources like Moses did? Moses’ Example: Giving God First Place “Moses gave the tribute to Eleazar the priest as an offering for the LORD, as the LORD had commanded Moses.” (Numbers 31:41) What Was God’s Portion? • Israel’s soldiers brought home an immense haul from Midian. • God ordered a precise division: half to the warriors, half to the community (vv. 25-27). • From each half a tribute—“the LORD’s portion”—was lifted out and presented to Him first (vv. 28-30, 41). • Moses obeyed exactly, showing that before anyone benefited, God received His share. Timeless Principles • God’s ownership is total; He merely entrusts resources to us (Psalm 24:1). • The first claim on any increase belongs to Him (Exodus 22:29; Proverbs 3:9-10). • Obedience unlocks blessing and keeps hearts from greed (Malachi 3:10). • Leaders model faithfulness by handling God’s portion transparently, as Moses did (Numbers 31:49-54). Practical Ways to Prioritize God’s Portion Today Finances • Separate the Lord’s tithe or firstfruits as soon as income arrives—before bills, savings, or leisure. • Give systematically (1 Corinthians 16:2) and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Support local church ministry first, then missions, mercy, and kingdom projects. Time • Block out a daily “first slot” for Scripture and prayer (Mark 1:35). • Dedicate one day in seven for worship and rest, honoring the pattern of Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11). Talents & Influence • Offer specialized skills to strengthen the body of Christ—teaching, administration, craftsmanship (1 Peter 4:10-11). • View workplace roles as platforms for witness; let integrity be your offering (Colossians 3:23-24). Possessions • Set aside rooms, vehicles, or tools for gospel use—hosting small groups, transporting the needy, lending equipment (Acts 4:34-35). • Budget generosity: plan to replace “extras” with opportunities to meet spiritual or physical needs (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). Relationships • Yield family life to God’s purposes—praying together, opening the home to hospitality, discipling children (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Scripture Echoes That Reinforce the Pattern • Proverbs 3:9-10 – “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest…” • Malachi 3:10 – “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse…” • Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” • Luke 16:10 – “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much…” • 2 Corinthians 9:12-13 – Giving supplies needs and glorifies God. Heart Check: Motives Behind the Gift • Gratitude—recognizing all we have comes from Him (1 Chronicles 29:14). • Trust—believing He provides abundantly after we give (Philippians 4:19). • Worship—delighting to honor His worth, not paying a fee (Romans 12:1). • Justice—ensuring God’s servants and the vulnerable are cared for (Deuteronomy 14:28-29). A Lifestyle of Dedication Prioritizing God’s portion is not a single act but a rhythm: every payday, every sunrise, every opportunity. Like Moses, we place the Lord’s share in His hands first, witnessing how He multiplies what remains and deepens our joy in Him. |
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