Concerning the law of tithing in the old covenant, many people would say that it was always ten percent. However, that is really a myth. As we read from Leviticus, chapter 27, we learn that from the seed of the land a fifth part was given to the Lord and His sanctuary. Where out of all the herds, a tenth was given. This goes against many churches that say that God always requires ten percent of our income to be given over to God and his church. It is written, “and all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s: it is holy unto the Lord. And if a man will at all redeem ought of his tithes, he shall add thereto the fifth part thereof. And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, even of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the Lord.” (Leviticus 27:30-32) It is awesome to see that based on the seed of the land and the amount of cattle someone has that different tithes were given. This might sound like a new concept, but it is how things were done in the old covenant times of the laws of Moses. God’s laws were given and obeyed.
What people gave unto the Lord in the old covenant was done because of their obedience and trust in God’s laws for the people. This is amazing to see such faith in God, especially when it had to do with tithing. The very act of being taxed by God and not backing down is astonishing. I say taxes since it is easy to relate a percentage of our wages to God as it is to the government. All these offerings are holy unto the Lord and were God’s commandments for men at that time. It is written, “he shall not search whether it be good or bad, neither shall he change it: and if he change it at all, then both it and the change thereof shall be holy; it shall not be redeemed. These are the commandments, which the Lord commanded Moses for the children of Israel in mount Sinai.” (Leviticus 27:33,34) In the time we live in, the offerings we give to God and our church is not based on a percentage of money but on what God puts on our heart. For me, God has put in my heart to give a certain monthly amount each month, but it will be different for you and others. God is simply looking for a willing giver. God bless you all. Amen.
Let us pray:
Oh Lord, help us to be willing givers. To give money unto our church and to other people in need. I am grateful to attend a church with a pastor who is really serving You. The same goes for the worship leaders. Without the money from people it would be hard for the church to sustain itself, the missions, and other things that go on. Therefore, it is a pleasure to give where I attend church service. But Lord, I know that many people do this, some grudgingly and others with all sincerity of heart. Take every bit of our bitterness and hard feelings, and help us come to You with a willing heart to give to the growing of Your kingdom. I also know that the homeless society is not shrinking, and many of us have more than we need. Therefore, as we have been given much, help us to give what we have extra to the homeless. Give us over to things we can give like groceries, fast food, drinks, hats, gloves, blankets, coats, shoes, and more. You have put all of these thoughts into my mind and It is so wonderful to give when the opportunity arises. I do it all for You, Lord. This willing heart comes from You. Amen.
