Welcome back to another episode of "A Word from the Vine," and today we delve into a topic that may stir some mixed emotions: tithing. As we explore this subject, I invite you to open your hearts and minds to the transformative power of faithful giving.
Tithing, the practice of giving a portion of our income to God, has deep biblical roots. In the book of Malachi, we find the words of the Lord Himself in Malachi 3:10, saying, "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 there will not be room enough to store it."
These words remind us of the immense blessings that flow from faithful giving. Tithing is not merely a financial obligation but an act of trust and obedience. It is an opportunity for us to participate in God's work, supporting the ministry and the spreading of the Gospel.
The apostle Paul also speaks to the practice of tithing in his letter to the Corinthians. In 1 Corinthians 16:2, he writes, "On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made."
These biblical passages teach us the importance of regular, intentional giving. Tithing allows us to contribute to the well-being of our local church and the wider body of Christ. It enables us to support struggling rural churches, ensuring that the work of God's kingdom continues to flourish.
I understand that the topic of tithing can sometimes evoke fear or reluctance. However, let us remember that God does not ask us to give out of compulsion but out of a willing heart. He desires us to experience the joy and blessings that come from faithful stewardship.
Tithing is not solely about meeting the financial needs of the church; it is about our spiritual growth and alignment with God's purposes. It reminds us that everything we have belongs to Him and that He is our ultimate provider.
So, my dear brothers and sisters, I encourage you to rediscover the power of tithing. Let go of any fear or hesitation and embrace it as a means of supporting the work of God's kingdom. Your faithful giving has the potential to uplift struggling rural churches, strengthen the entire body of believers, and make a lasting impact on countless lives.
Together, let us walk in obedience, trusting that God will honor our faithfulness and bless us abundantly. May we experience the joy of giving and witness the transformative power of tithing in our own lives and in the lives of others.
Thank you for joining me on this episode of "A Word from the Vine." May we all embrace the biblical perspective on tithing, allowing it to deepen our relationship with God and further His work on earth. I'm Pastor Loren Christensen.
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