When our finances run low, the temptation is to hold on to every shekel, but, as is almost always the case, God's ways are contrary to our reasoning. God tells us to give away even when we have little, and he will be faithful to provide. An honest look at scripture shows us that tithing is a principle of life, not a mere suggestion for the rich among us. The tithe paid by believers has its roots in ancient times and was the practice of Abraham, the father of our faith; its mention in Scripture predates the tithe commanded in the law by more than four centuries.
We are given only a handful of facts about the mysterious figure, Melchizedek, yet we are told that Jesus' priesthood is according to that of Melchizedek. A primary aspect of Melchizedek's ministry was receiving tithes and bestowing blessings in return, and so it remains a primary feature of the priesthood of Jesus Christ.
Never has God failed to meet my needs. To mention just a few examples: in faith I traveled to a foreign land with only enough money for a weekend stay and received enough on the day of my arrival to stay for three months; God has twice provided for the purchase of an automobile paid for in full with cash; when I was in my early 20's and a new believer with very little money, the Lord directed me to develop the artistic talent he'd given me. To do this required expensive art supplies that I could not afford. Along came a man who had decided toleave his artistic pursuits and was happy to give me all of his materials.
Put your trust in him, never in money. The believer who obediently gives the tithe enters into a financial system that is literally out of this world.
- 26 NOVEMBER -