Generosity and Provision
In Malachi 3:10, we encounter a profound invitation from God: “’Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.’”
The "storehouse" in ancient Israel was a place in the temple where tithes and offerings were kept, primarily to provide for the priests and the needy. By instructing the Israelites to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, God taught them about stewardship and caring for people in their community. Their generosity was a way of loving and serving those around them.
If you’ve ever tried to give when you felt strapped for resources, you may have discovered this truth already: giving is an act of trust. When we give, we are making a choice to believe that God will provide for our every need no matter what. God challenges His people to trust Him enough to give wholeheartedly, promising that in return, He would open the "floodgates of heaven."
Today, this verse prompts us to examine our own generosity. Are we holding back, or are we trusting God with all we have? We get to bring our whole tithe to God, not out of obligation but out of faith. We get to say ‘yes’ to God’s invitation to experience His provision in everything, and even provide for others.
You'll Never Share the Gospel Alone
When Jesus sent His followers to share the good news of God’s kingdom, He knew they’d face rejection. Some would listen. Others would turn away—even threaten or oppose them. So He gave this encouragement:
“...do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you."
Matthew 10:19-20
What a relief! Sharing the Gospel can feel intimidating. There is risk involved. What if the right words don’t come? What if someone asks a question that’s hard to answer? Jesus knew those fears and promised His Spirit would help.
Sharing Jesus isn’t about trying to convince. It’s not about control or perfect words. It’s simply sharing your story of hope—hope that could change someone’s eternity.
The Holy Spirit still speaks through ordinary people. God knows the person you’re talking to. He knows their story, their questions, and their ...