How can we apply the principle of sharing resources in our church community? Setting the scene: Numbers 31:30 “From the Israelites’ half you are to take one out of every fifty from the people, the cattle, the donkeys, the flocks, and all the other animals, and give them to the Levites who are responsible for the care of the LORD’s tabernacle.” • God directs Israel to set aside 2 percent of the battle spoils for those devoted to full-time ministry. • The portion is fixed, intentional, and given first, not last. • The Levites receive it so they can keep God’s house functioning for everyone’s benefit. Timeless principles we draw • Everything we own ultimately belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:1). • God expects His people to share material resources so that ministry flourishes (Nehemiah 13:10-12). • A specific, proportional gift guards us from vague good intentions and builds predictable provision. Translating the principle to church life today 1. Identify those who serve the body in dedicated roles—pastors, missionaries, support staff, and facilities that enable worship. 2. Decide on a clear percentage or amount—whether the tithe (Leviticus 27:30) or another set figure—to channel toward these needs. 3. Give the portion first, just as Israel gave the Levite share before enjoying the rest. 4. Create transparent systems so the congregation knows how funds support ministry. 5. Re-evaluate annually, adjusting as God prospers the church (2 Corinthians 8:7). Practical ways to share resources • Establish a benevolence fund for members under financial strain (Acts 2:44-45). • Stock a food pantry; rotate contributions so quality remains high (Luke 3:11). • Lend tools, vehicles, or professional skills; schedule a “resource exchange” Sunday to match needs with offers. • Form short-term care teams that cook meals, perform repairs, or babysit for families facing crisis (Galatians 6:10). • Support global missions by adopting missionary families for ongoing prayer and monthly giving (Philippians 4:16-18). Scriptures that reinforce generous sharing • Proverbs 3:9—“Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • Malachi 3:10—“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse…” • 2 Corinthians 8:13-15—Paul ties equality of burden to Israel’s manna experience: “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.” • 1 Timothy 6:18—“Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds…” Blessings that follow obedient sharing • Ministry needs are met consistently; leaders serve without distraction (Numbers 18:21). • Unity deepens as members see tangible care for one another (Acts 4:32-33). • The watching world observes a counter-cultural community and is drawn to Christ (John 13:35). • Givers experience God’s promised provision and joy (Luke 6:38; Philippians 4:19). Stepping forward together Let each member settle the matter in the heart, commit to a defined share, and participate joyfully. The same God who ordered Israel’s camp still multiplies resources when His people honor Him first and open their hands to one another. |
    |