Through the Bible: MalachiSample

Do Not Rob God

From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts. But you say, ‘How shall we return?’

Malachi 3:7 (ESV)

Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.

Malachi 3:10 (ESV)

We see that Israel had once again turned from God and His ways. Israel was also neglecting her covenant relationship with God by robbing Him of the tithes (one-tenth of their income) and offerings. Although the Lord abhors and condemns the hypocritical, corrupt and immoral acts of His people, He is faithful to His covenant promises and will not abandon His people. Therefore, He exhorts them to return to Him.

If the people would repent, return to God and show their renewed commitment to Him by first honouring His work and ministering with their giving, God would pour out far more blessings (not just financial blessings) than they had given. God actually invites us to “prove” Him – meaning to taste His trustworthiness with our giving. Tithes are necessary for supporting local church ministries. It should go to our local “storehouse” or home church - the place where we receive ministry on a regular basis - so that all the local churches can accomplish God’s purposes in their communities and in their outreach efforts. Let us honour the Lord with our tithes. It belongs to Him.

Prayer

Father God, we thank You for always pursuing us and calling us to return to You. Forgive us even when we have failed numerous times to obey You. Help us to be faithful in the giving of our tithes and offerings out of our love and obedience to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.