What Then ...?

In the third chapter of Malachi our God is recorded as having said, "... you have robbed me ... in tithes and offerings." The judgement for such an act was, and is, "You are cursed with a curse: for you have robbed Me."

What then shall we do? If you find that you have been guilty of robbing God, admit it! That is the best place to start. Remember, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." [1 John 1:9]

He, then, promises to "open the windows of Heaven, pour you out a blessing, rebuke the devourer and cause you to live in a delightsome land. What a promise! It can be your promise if you will but obey the living Word of God.

God is not impressed with what you and I do. He is only interested in whether we yield to His will, plan and purpose or not.

Obedience to the Word of God is critical to a fulfilling, fruitful life. "... Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. [1 Sam. 15:22]

Where should the tithe be given? "Bring ye ALL the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house..., saith the Lord of Host [Malachi 3:10]

How much is the tithe? The tithe is a percentage matter. It is ten percent (10%) of the increase. This is usually ten percent (10%) of the gross pay check. The gross is the amount before taxes. This is a minimum and is required by God as His just due.

How can I pay my bills with ninety percent of my income when I couldn't pay them with one hundred percent of my income? God has said that He would "open you the windows of Heaven, and pour you out a blessing" if you would trust Him. He cannot lie and He watches over His Word to perform it. [Psa.119:106; Jer. 1:12; Eze. 12:25]