RPG Adults
TITHING AND KEEPING THE COMMANDMENTS
LORD’S DAY, NOVEMBER 21
Deuteronomy 26:12-19
Luke 6:38
“Give, and it shall be
given unto you…”
TITHING AND KEEPING THE COMMANDMENTS
Tithes and firstfruits were all gifts for the Lord that were commanded. What was given to the Lord’s house was for the benefit of strangers (who might be poor), the Levites (who were the spiritual ministers) and the fatherless and widows. The Lord Jesus also remarked that the poor are always with us so we must not let them go hungry when God has blessed us with much.
Apart from the giving of the firstfruits, tithing was also commanded. Israel was to commence tithing in the third year after settling in the land. This portion was to be given and it became a perpetual command to guide Israel in their giving. Do you give your tithes? Acknowledging and keeping the commandments of God was part of the everyday life that Israel was admonished to adopt when they moved into the new land. As they requested blessings from the Lord, they were to ensure that they followed His command to love Him with their whole heart. In so doing, the Lord would make Israel a great nation. They would be exalted above others as a holy people.
In the church today, the spiritual minister is the pastor. He also, like the ox that treads on the corn, cannot be muzzled. Provide for your pastor from what God has blessed you with. The principle is enshrined in this Mosaic injunction mentioned earlier. Believers in Christ have this privilege as children of Abraham by faith.
Service for the Lord is foremost in the eyes of all who fear His name. His promises are sure. Resolve to obey Him and render due service. It takes deliberate effort to do this with sincerity. Ministering to the needy is God ministering to them through you. A regenerated heart only can do what God commands. What can you render to the Lord for His goodness?
THOUGHT: Giving to the Lord’s work is part of our duty to God.
PRAYER: Father, I thank Thee that there is no lack in Thy house, for Thou art the great Provider.