How can we apply the principle of sharing offerings with others in need? A snapshot of the instruction (Leviticus 7:14) “From the cake he is to present one portion from each offering as a contribution to the LORD. It will belong to the priest who sprinkles the blood of the peace offering.” • Israel’s worshiper kept most of the fellowship offering for family celebration, yet a choice piece was handed to the priest. • The gift passed through the Lord’s hands to a person set apart for service, showing that offerings were never meant to stay with the giver. • From the start, God welded worship and generosity together. Timeless principles we draw • God reserves a portion of what He gives us for the relief of others. • Sharing honors the Lord first, then blesses His servants and the vulnerable. • Generosity is part of worship, not an optional add-on. • The giver enjoys the rest of God’s provision after the first share is released. Practical ways to share offerings today • Set aside the “first slice” of every paycheck or harvest for gospel workers, missionaries, or local church staff who depend on support. • Create a standing line in your budget for benevolence—food baskets, rent relief, medical bills—for believers under strain. • Invite widows, single parents, and students to your table on holidays; break bread as Israel once did at the peace offering meal. • Pool resources in small groups to meet sudden needs quickly (car repairs, diapers, heating oil). • Give discreetly so the recipient sees God’s hand more than yours. • Teach children to divide their allowance into “give, save, spend” jars, modeling Leviticus 7:14 in miniature. • When your church sets a special fund goal, pledge early and publicly; your enthusiasm can unlock others’ generosity. Scriptures that reinforce the pattern • Deuteronomy 14:28-29 — provision for Levites, foreigners, orphans, widows. • Proverbs 22:9 — “A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.” • Galatians 6:6 — “The one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.” • Hebrews 13:16 — “Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” • James 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17 — practical help proves genuine faith. • 2 Corinthians 9:7-8 — cheerful giving releases God’s overflowing grace. Heart attitudes to cultivate • Gratitude: “Everything I have is from You, so nothing is off-limits to You.” • Trust: God replenishes what we release (Malachi 3:10). • Joy: giving is fellowship with the Lord, not loss. • Humility: we are stewards, not owners. Living the blessing As worshipers today, we echo Leviticus 7:14 every time we carve out the first portion for kingdom work and human need. The altar may be gone, yet the rhythm remains: receive from God, return a share to Him, watch Him multiply mercy through our open hands. |
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