This is the case with the MYSTERY OF GIVING.
In our normal, material world, some of the effects of giving are rather obvious. So, perhaps we should start there, first, and then grow out into the supernatural dimensions.
Despite the fact that we want to focus on God and live in the Spiritual Realm, the practical realities are that we are still very much here, in our mortal and material bodies. Consequently, there are also material things that we need to take care of for our basic survival (air, food, clothing, shelter). And, we need to share our provisions, so that those around us can survive as well. This is what builds a Society--the sharing or exchanging of material provisions. Without it, any government or organization would collapse.
Thus, the effects of not sharing or not giving can be very obvious on God's Kingdom (or Spiritual Realm). The facilities (walls and buildings) can be broken down and delapidated from lack of maintenance (Nehemiah 2:12-17). And the Ministers and Congregational workers can desert their posts, in order to raise their daily provisions from their own fields (Nehemiah 13:10-11). Now, how can such a situation bring glory to God's Name? No, the heathen will surely laugh at us for our lack of care and concern for God's House!
Moreover, as with Natural Laws, so with Spiritual Laws. What is true naturally, is true spiritually, as well. So, while there are logical, rational reasons for supporting God's Works, there are also spiritual reasons, as well.
For, God has set forth in HIS Word the Command that:
Futhermore, the Apostles also said:
Consequently, the maintenance of the Holy Teachings (and things about God) depend on the generosity of HIS People. For, if we have gained the benefits of the knowledge of God, shouldn't we be the ones to pay for that? Who in the natural would teach, without recieving wages to support himself (and his family) from his teaching? So, what should it be any different with God's Teachers?
And, how can you expect God to bless you, if you don't bless the spreading of HIS Teachings?
Even in the natural, it should be obvious that if the Ministers and Congregational workers are not supported, that they will have to take other full-time jobs to provide for their daily living (and that of their family)--and if they are working full-time elsewhere, no matter how much of a superman they may think that they are, the work of God will come second place (and suffer from lack of full attention)!
Consequently, our moral duty of giving should be clear.
Well, you need to give, not just because it is your moral duty, but rather you need to see with the eye of FAITH the material reward of giving (or lack of blessing, if you don't give)! Now, what is this? Well, for sure, you are called upon to share your blessings and material possessions. But, you need to grasp that giving it to God is NOT THROWING IT AWAY! And, this is one of those mindboggling paradoxical Spiritual concepts that is hard with the natural, material mind to understand. (For the connections are not readily seen, in the material!)
Give some serious thought to the Passage:
Now, let us look on the reverse situation:
So, what is the spiritual reality of giving?
To make this point clear, let us exaim exactly what God's Word says about this:
And this Mystery of the true source of wealth and prosperity being connected to your giving to God is abundantly detailed in the other Scriptures (Proverbs 2:9, 28:27 and 2 Corinthians 9:10-12)! Moreover, it is one of the main ways that our fore-fathers in America have used to build up the level of prosperity that we enjoy here, today! (Consider their historical record of giving.)
So, it is just one of those things of the spirit world that you have to accept on Faith. (For, the natural eye does not see it!) And, if you have the Faith, then you will give. And as you give, you will find that it is so!
Moreover, note the importance of giving! In all other things God severly warns us not to put HIM to the test. Nor to force a proof on HIM of HIS existence. But, here, in the matter of giving, HE challenges you to try it! GIVE AND SEE WHAT HE WILL DO!!!
Well, if giving is that important (and it is), how much should you give then? Now, this is a matter for each man to decide on his own (and in prayer with God). For, as you feel comfortable in giving in your heart (or convicted in your conscience as to exactly what you should give), so should you provide to God's Works--in a cheerful spirit.
Even as it is written:
We will more than appreciate whatever you feel led to give!
So, just how much should you GIVE (donate), then? Well, frankly, it is time to sit down and do some heavy praying about it! Ask God to show you what HE wants you to give. And then do what HE tells you!
And, whatever you decide, be sure that it comes through the proper channels to Us. (Use Our Donations Page, below, to guide you.)
Well, yes, I think it might be good if you were aware of what others have given as donations in the past (and the results or harvests that such giving usually produces). See Our Article on Family Prosperity (and the Teachings on Tithing) in the Revival Literature. Or use the handy link, below:
Your monitary donations will greatly help to this end!
Also, as you can see, from cruising around our Web Site, there are lots of Projects in Planning and Works in Development. They are coming, but many are held up by lack of funds (or lack of workers). For, we simply do not have the resources to do what you will not support. For Our Realm is greatly dependent upon the generosity of its members. Moreover, if you don't have the money to give, then please consider giving of your time and talents. Volunteer labor often helps us accomplish what would have been impossible otherwise!
The donation of your time and talents would be a great help!
Or, can't find what you are looking for? OR, have a comment or suggestion? Then try the contact routes below:
E-MAIL us at: zdkf@gorge.net (Please, mark subject box GIVING MYSTERY!)
Our mailing address is:
Our phone number is: (509) 493-1674
Now, how did he get all that wealth? By employing this sacred mystery of giving to God and HIS Works (Genesis 14:17-20)! So, we invite you to join us in this partnership with God in giving (Matthew 17:14-27 and Luke 19:8). Give...and prosper!
And if you want to study this more, see Our lesson on TITHING. Try it and see!
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Filed: 11-22-99 . . . Up-dated 06-08-01