Above All Else

Did you know it’s possible to steal from God himself? We find this incredible statement in the Old Testament book of Malachi: “Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings” (3:8 NKJV).

The Bible reminds us that our ability to produce wealth comes from the Lord. Deuteronomy 8:18 says, “Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful” (NLT).

All that we have has come to us from God, so we should give back to Him from our finances. In fact, Christians should understand that it’s a privilege to give to God. We all should want to do it.

In fact, God makes specific promises to us about our giving. As we faithfully invest in His kingdom, He will bless us as a result. Also, Jesus said, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need” (Matthew 6:33 NLT).

In the context of this statement, Jesus was talking about unbelievers who worry about what they will wear, what they will eat, and what they will drink. Then Jesus went on to say, “These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs” (Matthew 6:32 NLT).

Back in Malachi, we find this amazing promise: “‘Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,’ says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, ‘I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!’” (Malachi 3:10 NLT).

I challenge you put the Lord to the test in this area. Give faithfully to Him.