“Now concerning the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do. On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up…” – 1 Corinthians 16:1-2a
Scripture reading: Malachi 3:6-18
Statistically, the average family of four spends about four and a half months paying off their Christmas debts. That family will be hard-pressed to fund their summer vacation. In Canada, Halloween is fast becoming the second most expensive holiday on the calendar. Why mention this? It is easy to get caught up in the culture of serving oneself and robbing God. When budgeting, consider giving God the tithe first, not what is left over.
As accountability partners, East to West, it is critical that believers challenge one another to wean themselves from worldliness. It is a great temptation to say, “I earned this money and I deserve to say how it is spent.” God made you. He gave you the gifts and talents to be able to work. He blessed you with a job. He sustains your health. No one can boast about his money or possessions because all that he has comes from the hand of the Father’s blessing. In fact, you recite this truth every time you recite the fourth request of the Lord’s Prayer: “Give us today our daily bread.”
As a Christian growing in Christ, your finances must reflect that God is the top priority in life. Who in your life is challenging you to keep this promise? Instruct one another that giving to God means giving Him your time, skills, and your tithes. Speak openly with your children of your dedication to God as you give a tenth of your income in thanksgiving for all His blessings.
Suggestions for prayer
Bless God for the abundance He has given to you. Pray for those who are needy. Ask the Spirit of God to prompt you into greater acts of generosity.
Rev. Richard T. Vander Vaart and his wife Carolyn are now in their seventh year living in Moncton, NB. with Redemption Prison Ministry as a pastor in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church of Canada. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com