There are some parts of the Christian faith that aren’t complicated.
Offerings and blessings fall into this category.
The more we give to God because we love Him and appreciate His grace, the more He gives to us because He loves us and uses us as vessels of ministry.
Millions of Christians tithe — meaning they give at least 10 percent of gross income to ministry — not just because they want to obey Christ’s command given in Matthew 23:23 but also because they believe His promises in 2 Corinthians 9:
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” (verse 6)
“Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” (vv. 10-11)
If you’re not tithing, prayerfully consider starting. Yes, I know times are tough for many. But tithing is to be based on what one has, not on what he or she doesn’t have, AND the low-income person can be just as generous in God’s sight as the wealthy person.
Over time, you’ll experience the satisfaction of receiving God’s blessings in greater inner peace, greater joy at seeing more ministry occur and periodic greater blessings in your relationships, finances and protection from calamity. This has been true in my life and in the lives of many that I know.
As we’re increasing in generosity, God will increase in what He places in our hands.
Churches with many tithers are churches that are changing their communities and the world. Sadly, the reverse is also true.
Listen, there’s not a farmer in the world who wouldn’t jump at the chance to make a 1,000 percent return on his investment, and that’s essentially what God promises to those who return to the soil of obedient ministry the tithe from what they’ve been given.
Still not sure tithing is a good idea? Still not sure that God can be trusted? Here’s one more verse to lead your heart:
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.” (Malachi 3:10)
God’s hand is on the gate, waiting for your tithes. Please start giving in a way that shows God it’s time to throw open the gate.
As always, I love you
Martin
