“Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” (Proverbs 3:9-10).
Under the Old Covenant, the Israelites gave a tenth of their possessions (firstfruits) as a tithe to the Lord. The money collected and offerings given were used to support the priests and to meet the expenses of running the temple. In the New Covenant, we are not under the letter of the law, but the principle of tithing is alluded to. Instead of a mandated amount, we are instructed to give freely out of the abundance of our heart. We are commanded to give freely and cheerfully, for the Lord loveth a cheerful giver. (II Corinthians 9:7) We also have the blessing principle. If God has blessed us abundantly financially, we should shoulder a greater proportion of Kingdom work. Beware of Christian leaders who encourage you to “sow financial seed” into their ministry and promise financial windfalls as a result of your “seed of faith.” This scheme is spiritual manipulation at the very least and quite possibly witchcraft. Well-meaning Christians have sent their last dollar to these men, who prey upon the elderly and poor, and have the audacity to drive around in luxury cars doing the “work of God” Hypocrisy! Men of God, let us not be like the Galatian church Paul wrote to, always putting ourselves back under the law. Instead, let us operate in grace and allow the Lord to be in control of all areas of our lives, including our finances. Remember, to whom much is given, much is required. (Luke 12:48). Give to the Lord’s work out of the abundance of His provision, and He will bless your faithfulness. (Luke 6:38).
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