In what ways can we support those serving in ministry today? Joshua 21:3—God’s People Share Their Inheritance “So by the command of the LORD, the Israelites gave the Levites these cities and their pasturelands out of their own inheritance.” (Joshua 21:3) The Levites were set apart to serve at the tabernacle. Because their full-time work left no room to farm large tracts or pursue ordinary trades, God told the other tribes to give them towns and pasturelands. The arrangement was practical, generous, and rooted in obedience to the Lord’s explicit command. The principle still stands: those who minister are to be supported by those they serve. A Timeless Principle: Provision for Those Who Serve • Ministry was (and is) designed to be a shared endeavor. God supplies through His people. • Provision frees servants to focus on spiritual labor rather than personal survival. • Support is not optional generosity but covenant obedience. Practical Ways to Support Ministers Today • Regular, cheerful financial giving—salaries, housing, insurance, retirement. • Supplying resources: books, technology, conference costs, counseling sessions. • Offering time: childcare during meetings, meal trains, help with home repairs. • Encouraging words—notes, texts, public appreciation moments. • Protecting family time—respect days off, discourage needless late-night calls. • Volunteering—serve on teams so leaders aren’t overextended. • Interceding faithfully: private prayer lists, corporate prayer gatherings. • Guarding reputations—refuse gossip, speak truth, defend integrity. • Providing accountability—loving, biblical oversight keeps life and doctrine sound. New Testament Echoes of the Same Call • 1 Corinthians 9:13-14—“those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” • Galatians 6:6—“the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.” • 1 Timothy 5:17-18—elders who lead well are “worthy of double honor… the worker is worthy of his wages.” • Hebrews 13:17—make their oversight “a joy, not grief,” which benefits the whole church. • Philippians 4:14-18—Paul calls the Philippians’ gifts “a fragrant offering… well-pleasing to God.” • 3 John 5-8—supporting traveling workers makes us “fellow workers for the truth.” Walking It Out Together Supporting ministers is a joyful partnership in the gospel. By sharing resources, time, encouragement, and prayer, believers echo Israel’s obedience in Joshua 21:3 and honor the Lord who still commands that His servants be cared for. |
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