~ by Terry Walters
Malachi 3:8-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
My parents taught me at an early age to tithe.
It's biblical. It's a good thing. “Tithe” means tenth.
To tithe to God through the local church,
is to give at least 1/10 of what you earn back to God.
I learned it early because I began
making money early. I had a job.
I delivered newspapers. I collected the payments from
my customers and paid the newspaper office for the papers.
I got a percentage back and that's wherre the tithe came in.
I gave 10% of what I earned to my church.
The church uses money to have a building with utilities
to provide a place for worship, discipleship, and fellowship.
We buy Bibles and curriculum. We help people in need.
We support other ministries and missionaries
who reach millions of people with the gospel.
Money is needed to do the work of the Kingdom.
It's all a part of the principle of stewardship.
I gave my life to Jesus. That makes Him the owner of my life.
However, He made me the manager -
or steward - of my life here on earth.
I should always try to manage my life
in ways that please and honor the Owner.
The opportunity to earn money - that came from God.
Being physically and mentally equipped to do so - from God.
Air, water, sunlight for life - that's God, too!
Talents, skills, intellect, personality -
all gifts from God to use for His purposes.
Never forget that God is the owner,
and we are the managers.
For all of life. And that includes the money.
So, it's actually 10% of His money that you are giving back!
Prayer: Our Father in heaven, thank You so much for all You are,
all You do, and all You have given us!
May we always be grateful. Help us focus away from ourselves
and have the desire to see more kingdom building,
and therefore be willing to give back from our blessings.
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