1 Corinthians 16:1-2
Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
There has been so much greedy preaching about tithing and giving that I seldom write about it. I have witnessed religious hucksters who promote spiritual causes that often tend only to increase their own standard of living. I fail to understand how those ministers can justify owning million-dollar estates and still beg for money to assist the needy.
Leaving all of the shallow teaching and high living behind, what does the Word of God say about how we are to give? Some have noticed that the tithe (giving 10%) is only mentioned in the Old Testament. That is true; however, in the New Testament we are told to give as God has prospered us.
Jesus repeatedly taught that a true believer must recognize that everything belongs to the Lord. That being the case, we must always stop and ask the Lord what He would have us do with the money He has entrusted to us.
Receiving and giving in the name of the Lord is an exciting way to live. It frees us of the burden of the riches of this old world. It takes our eyes off things and shows us the value of our relationship with Him and investing in things of eternal value.
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
—Pastor Cecil