What practical steps can we take to support God's work, as seen in Nehemiah 7:71? Setting the Scene Nehemiah has led the returned exiles in rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall. Chapter 7 records the census of the people and the voluntary offerings that supplied the newly restored community with everything it needed to function in worship and civic life. Key Verse “Some of the heads of families gave to the treasury for the work 20,000 darics of gold and 2,200 minas of silver.” (Nehemiah 7:71) Timeless Principles Drawn from the Verse • God’s work involves material needs. • Leadership models generosity first. • Giving is intentional and recorded; it is not haphazard. • Offerings come from willing hearts, not coercion. Practical Steps to Support God’s Work Today 1. Recognize the Need • Study the ministry’s goals and budget so your giving is informed. • “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” (Luke 10:7) 2. Lead by Example • Whether parent, ministry head, or small-group leader, set the pace by giving first. • “Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share.” (1 Timothy 6:18) 3. Give Proportionately • Heads of families likely varied in wealth, yet all contributed. • “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) 4. Offer Quality Gifts • Darics were pure gold; minas were substantial silver weights. • “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” (Proverbs 3:9) 5. Plan and Record Offerings • Nehemiah tallied the gifts, ensuring accountability. • Create a giving schedule or use envelopes/online tools that track contributions. 6. Cultivate Willing Hearts • Voluntary generosity reflects inner devotion. • “Everyone whose heart stirred him and whose spirit moved him came and brought an offering to the LORD.” (Exodus 35:21) 7. Support Both Worship and Practical Infrastructure • Funds in Nehemiah’s day covered priestly garments and civic stores. • Give toward building upkeep, missionary support, benevolence, and outreach programs. 8. Trust God’s Promise of Provision • “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure.” (Malachi 3:10) Why Our Giving Matters Generous, planned, and joyful giving fuels evangelism, discipleship, benevolence, and the everyday expenses that allow ministry to flourish. In mirroring the heads of families in Nehemiah 7 we tangibly declare that God’s priorities outrank our own comfort. Taking the First Step Identify one ministry expense you can underwrite this month, set aside the funds, and joyfully place them in the “treasury for the work.” As each believer follows through, God’s kingdom advances and His people witness His faithfulness. |
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