Faithful Giving: A Partnership with God
By: AJ Dumpasan
Title: Faithful Giving: A Partnership with God
Text: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty” (Malachi 3:10).
Based on: Ellen White’s Counsels on Stewardship, Chapter 2
Introduction
Opening Illustration:
Imagine a father giving his child a sum of money and instructing them to return a portion for the household’s needs. The child’s response would show gratitude and trust. Similarly, God provides for us and invites us to return a portion as an act of faith and partnership.
Ellen White, in Chapter 2 of Counsels on Stewardship, emphasizes that faithful giving—through tithes and offerings—is a divine privilege and responsibility.
Key Question:
Why is faithful giving essential in our stewardship journey?
1. Faithful Giving Acknowledges God as the Source of All Blessings
Ellen White’s Insight:
- “God is the giver of every good and perfect gift, and He claims a certain portion of all we possess” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 65).
- Tithing is an acknowledgment that everything we have comes from God. It is a tangible expression of our gratitude and trust.
Biblical Foundation:
- Deuteronomy 8:18: “Remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth.”
- Tithing is not about loss but about partnership with the Creator, who provides all our needs.
Practical Application:
- When budgeting, prioritize tithing as a spiritual discipline, not an afterthought.
- View tithing as an opportunity to express gratitude, rather than as an obligation.
Example:
- Share a testimony of someone who remained faithful in tithing, even during financial challenges, and experienced God’s provision.
2. Faithful Giving Supports God’s Work
Ellen White’s Insight:
- “The portion that God has reserved for Himself is not to be diverted to any other purpose than that which He has specified” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 67).
- Tithes and offerings are meant to support the ministry, provide for the church’s needs, and advance God’s mission.
Biblical Foundation:
- Malachi 3:10: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.”
- Faithful giving ensures that the church is equipped to spread the gospel and care for its members.
Practical Application:
- Understand how your giving directly supports local and global church initiatives, such as evangelism, education, and community service.
- Be intentional in offering additional support for specific ministries that resonate with your calling.
Example:
- Highlight a ministry or project that has flourished because of faithful giving.
3. Faithful Giving Invites God’s Blessings
Ellen White’s Insight:
- “The Lord has made His people stewards of His means, and as they prove themselves faithful to their trust, He will give them more to use for His work” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 72).
- God promises blessings—not just material, but spiritual and eternal—when we give faithfully.
Biblical Foundation:
- Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”
- Faithful giving opens the door for God’s abundant blessings in our lives.
Practical Application:
- Test God’s promise in Malachi 3:10 by being faithful in tithes and offerings.
- Reflect on how God’s blessings, tangible and intangible, flow into your life when you trust Him with your resources.
Example:
- Share a story of someone who experienced unexpected blessings after prioritizing their tithe and offering.
Conclusion
Key Takeaway:
Faithful giving is not about losing something; it’s about gaining a deeper relationship with God. By acknowledging Him as the source of all blessings, supporting His work, and trusting His promises, we grow as stewards and disciples.
Closing Appeal:
- Let us commit to being faithful in tithes and offerings, partnering with God in His mission.
- Remember, our giving reflects our love and trust in the One who provides abundantly for all our needs.
Closing Illustration:
- Share a testimony or quote from Ellen White that inspires faith in God’s provision.
Prayer:
“Lord, thank You for the privilege of being stewards of Your blessings. Teach us to give faithfully and joyfully, trusting that You will use our offerings to accomplish Your work. May our giving reflect our gratitude and deepen our faith in You. Amen.”
This message highlights the principles of faithful giving and how it strengthens our relationship with God and furthers His mission.
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