MAKE SURE TO KEEP THE MAIN THING, THE MAIN THING
Christine Fornaro
Today's Scripture: “But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.” Luke 11:42, ESV
Theme: The tithe, while important, is not a replacement for loving God wholeheartedly and placing your faith in the saving power of Jesus.
WHY DO YOU GIVE?
Have you ever found yourself in a place where you are “checking off the spiritual boxes”? I catch myself occasionally doing this. Read my Bible today? Check! Did I remember to pray? Check! Tithing? You bet! But giving just to check it off my Christian list loses its meaning. God desires more...He wants our whole heart in all we do.
Doing these things regularly are all great. But we can easily forget the point. When it comes to tithing, its purpose can be easily missed in the process. God doesn’t want us to give without heart; giving is meant to change our hearts. It’s an act of worship. To give back to the Lord what He has so graciously given doesn’t just bless the church and those around us, it’s meant to bless and grow us as well. When we let go of some of what we have, it stings a little if we’re honest. It also initiates a posture of the heart that reminds us that our offerings are given because we love Him, and no check list can accomplish that. Giving allows us to faithfully trust in Jesus to provide all we need, physically and spiritually.
Make It Personal: The next time you tithe, do it prayerfully. Give intentionally, from a position of love and avoid a dogmatic approach. Give with the intention to allow the Lord to continue to change you and bless you. Watch as He changes your heart and grows your faith in Him!
Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for all You have given us! You have given us Your very best in Jesus. We ask that You make us more like You. We bow our hearts in love for You. We ask that You help us to show charity to those we encounter. Remind us that loving You and having faith in You is our number one goal, and this leads to the fulfilling life You want most for us. Amen.
Read: 2 Corinthians 8-15; Mark 12:41-44; 2 Corinthians 9:7
Weekly Memory Verse: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21, NIV