Hebrews 7:2
To whom (Melchizedek the priest) also Abraham apportioned a tenth part of all his spoils,
Giving is a need that we have that is not natural. Since childhood, our reflex response is to get. Little Ralphy, from The Christmas Story, spent the entire movie in an attempt to get the gun. We have to be taught to give.
The result of ‘not giving’ is stagnation and an ingrown tendency which hardens us in an immature state. The negative traits begin to be amplified: selfishness, inhospitality, gossip, cruelty, lust and more.
God tells us to give to him. The old covenant was a tenth, while the new covenant says to give as we have determined in our hearts. A tenth is a good goal.
This normally causes concern because we don’t think we can afford it. However, this is one topic in the Bible where God says to test Him. “Test me in this (to give). See if I won’t throw open the windows of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you won’t be able to contain it.” Malachi 3:10
One of the ways that God will bless is explained in the next verse, “I will not allow the pests to destroy your crops.” verse 11. The typical things that happen in life that consume our cash is the slab leak, car trouble,… This doesn’t mean we won’t have those issues, but it’s a way that God can stretch our dollars. He will also provide in a positive way with business opportunities, raises, and more.
It actually gets exciting to see Him provide.
Begin small, but begin.
Giving should be more than money. We should be generous with our time, forgiveness and acceptance. He will reward us in those areas also. He will fill you heart and life so much that you will agree with King David, “my cup runneth over”.