Fasting

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that involves abstaining from food, and sometimes drink, for a period of time to focus on prayer and seeking God. It is a practice deeply rooted in biblical tradition and is observed by believers as a means of humbling oneself before the Lord, seeking His guidance, and expressing repentance.

In the Old Testament, fasting is often associated with mourning, repentance, and supplication. For instance, in the Book of Joel, the prophet calls for a sacred fast as a response to a locust plague, urging the people to "return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning" (Joel 2:12). Similarly, the people of Nineveh proclaimed a fast and put on sackcloth in response to Jonah's warning of impending judgment (Jonah 3:5-10).

The New Testament continues to affirm the importance of fasting. Jesus Himself fasted for forty days and nights in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:2). He also taught about fasting in the Sermon on the Mount, instructing His followers to fast discreetly and not for the sake of public recognition: "But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting will not be obvious to men, but only to your Father, who is unseen" (Matthew 6:17-18).

Fasting is seen as a way to draw closer to God, to seek His will, and to intercede for others. It is often accompanied by prayer and meditation on Scripture, creating a focused time for spiritual growth and renewal. The early church practiced fasting as a means of seeking God's direction, as seen in Acts 13:2-3, where the church in Antioch fasted and prayed before sending out Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey.

Tithing

Tithing is the practice of giving a tenth of one's income or produce to God, a principle established in the Old Testament and upheld in various forms in the New Testament. It is an act of worship and obedience, acknowledging God's provision and lordship over all aspects of life.

The concept of tithing is first introduced in Genesis 14:20, where Abram gives a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. Later, the Mosaic Law formalizes tithing as a requirement for the Israelites, as seen in Leviticus 27:30: "Thus any tithe of the land, whether from the seed of the land or the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD" .

Tithing served multiple purposes in the Old Testament, including supporting the Levitical priesthood, providing for the needs of the poor, and funding religious festivals. In Malachi 3:10, God challenges His people to bring the full tithe into the storehouse, promising to "open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure" .

In the New Testament, while the specific requirement of tithing is not reiterated, the principle of generous and sacrificial giving is emphasized. Jesus commends the widow who gave all she had, highlighting the heart attitude behind the gift (Mark 12:41-44). The Apostle Paul encourages believers to give cheerfully and generously, as each has decided in their heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Tithing, as a spiritual discipline, is a tangible expression of faith and trust in God's provision. It serves as a reminder that all we have belongs to God and that we are stewards of His resources. Through tithing, believers participate in the work of the church and the advancement of God's kingdom on earth.