Nehemiah 12
New Hope Daily SOAP: Nehemiah 12
Pastor Vicki Harrison
To read this text, go to: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Nehemiah+12&version=NIV
Nehemiah 12:44-45, At that time men were appointed to be in charge of the storerooms for the contributions, firstfruits and tithes. From the fields around the towns they were to bring into the storerooms the portions required by the Law for the priests and the Levites, for Judah was pleased with the ministering priests and Levites. They performed the service of their God and the service of purification, as did also the musicians and gatekeepers, according to the commands of David and his son Solomon.
After the wall was dedicated, there was much joy among God’s people. But after the music and celebration ended, Nehemiah made sure the people understood the importance of tithing. As they were seeking to be in alignment with God’s Word, this was of vital importance. The first fruits and tithes of the people provided for the work of the priests and the Levites, as well as any other need associated with the worship of God and his work in the world.
Tithing is still of vital importance. Throughout Scripture, God calls his people to give 10% of their earnings to him. This isn’t because God needs our money. Rather, it is a matter of heart. All we have comes from God – everything! As an act of obedience, he then calls us to give part of our resources back to him for his work in the world.
In my experience as a pastor, people really struggle with this. This is an estimate but I would guess only about a fifth of our church truly tithes. Submitting 10% may feel hard at first but once you do it, it is actually quite freeing. You know you are in compliance with God’s Word and God always blesses that. For me, it is also an important acknowledgment that God is Lord of my life and I’m trusting him with my all.
Do you tithe? Why or why not?
Let’s pray…Lord Jesus, All we have is a gift from you. Thank you. Help us be in cheerful givers, open to your work in our lives, and filled with a spirit of generosity. You only are Lord of my life. In Your Name, Amen.