How can we support church needs, reflecting Hezekiah's actions in 2 Chronicles 31:3? Setting the Scene “Then the king’s portion came from his own possessions for the burnt offerings—the morning and evening burnt offerings, and the burnt offerings for the Sabbaths, New Moons, and appointed feasts, as written in the Law of the LORD.” (2 Chronicles 31:3) What Hezekiah Actually Did • Gave personally—out of the royal treasury, not just public funds • Supplied predictably—morning and evening offerings, Sabbaths, New Moons, festivals • Followed Scripture—“as written in the Law of the LORD” Translating Hezekiah’s Pattern into Today • Personal generosity: leaders and members alike give from their own resources, not waiting for “someone else.” • Systematic support: schedule regular giving (weekly, monthly) so the church can plan. See 1 Corinthians 16:2. • Scripture-guided priorities: finance what God values—worship, teaching, missions, care for the needy. Practical Ways to Meet Church Needs 1. Budget firstfruits – Proverbs 3:9-10 urges honoring the LORD with “the firstfruits of all your harvest.” – Set aside a percentage before any other expense. 2. Tithe and beyond – Malachi 3:10: “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… and test Me in this.” – Consider offerings above the tithe for special projects, as Israel did in 2 Chronicles 31:5-6. 3. Fund worship essentials – Music, teaching materials, communion supplies parallel Hezekiah’s burnt offerings. 4. Support those who serve – 1 Timothy 5:17-18: elders “worthy of double honor.” – Ensure staff salaries, missionary stipends, and benevolence funds are healthy. 5. Maintain facilities – Exodus 35-36: skilled workers equipped the tabernacle; today we repair roofs, replace HVAC, keep the building welcoming. 6. Provide for the poor – Acts 4:34-35 shows believers laying gifts at the apostles’ feet so “no needy person remained among them.” 7. Volunteer time and skills – Romans 12:6-8: give “according to the grace given to us.” Accounting, plumbing, childcare—each gift counts. 8. Practice cheerful generosity – 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: “God loves a cheerful giver.” Joy turns duty into worship. Benefits of Hezekiah-Style Support • Worship remains central and vibrant. • Ministry expands because resources match vision. • The watching world sees God’s people care for one another (John 13:35). • Givers experience God’s promised provision and abundance (Luke 6:38). Taking the Next Step Follow Hezekiah’s example: personal, planned, Scripture-directed giving—so every need in the church family is met and the Lord’s name is honored. |
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