Scripture Reading
Malachi 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
11 And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts.
12 And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts.
Insight on the Word
The purpose of tithes and offerings was to support the priesthood and the work of God in general (1 Corinthians 9:7-14). The storehouse in Israel was the temple and cities of the Levites; but in the church it would be considered the place where one receives his spiritual help, where his gospel needs are supplied and where he meets his responsibility in the work of God, evangelizing the world and supporting the ministry.
In this passage God challenges men to prove Him regarding the blessings of tithing, stating four rewards for obedience in giving:
- Meat in God’s house – no lack of means or money to carry on His work.
- Opening of the windows of heaven to pour out a blessing so great that there will not be room enough to receive it.
- Rebuke of the devourer so that he will not destroy the crops.
- Recognition of God’s blessings by all men.
Today determine to be obedient in tithing and giving to your local church. The work of the Kingdom will flourish. In addition, obedience will bring blessings in abundance. For God has promised: “I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes.”
Speak the Word — I tithe! Satan is rebuked! I will have good crops! (Malachi 3:11)
Daily Bible Reading — Joshua 22 – 24