Sunday, 4 May 2025

Tithes and Offerings

"41Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. 42Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans."  Mark 12: 41-44   NKJV

This scripture emphasises the fact that Jesus sees all that we give to God by way of, tithes and offerings. He doesn't force anyone to give of their wealth but much teaching on this subject can be observed throughout the bible. Here, Jesus witnessed a poor widowed lady giving all she had at that time. Many had been up to the treasury and given very large sums; some of them made a big thing of it all. This didn't impress Jesus one bit. However, what did impress Him, was this widow. She was willingly to give all of what she had. 

The story of the widow's mite is often used to teach about the importance of generosity and the value of giving, not just the amount given, but also the sacrifice made. It highlights that God sees and values the effort and sacrice of the giver, regardless of their financial status. This lady had given 2 mites, which were very small value Roman coins which were known as a Lepta or Quadran. 

Jesus commented on her sacrifice, 'Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all of those who have given to the treasury. 44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.' v43-44.
There is a lesson here, firstly, it doesn't matter what other people may tithe or offer on a Sunday. What matters is the state of your heart and what you feel is right for you. Jesus is grateful. Secondly, Jesus does expect us to offer tithes and offerings to the church. Out of what we earn each month, part of this - usually a tenth, is set aside to offer to God which is recognised as a tithe. An offering is given in a Sunday service which goes to the upkeep of the church. 

You don't have to give, but when we consider what Jesus has done for each of us and that He expects us to give tithes and offerings, we should do all we can to meet this commitment. You cannot out give God. What you give as a tithe, He will bless and bless you in return whether by finance or other ways. We shouldn't expect a return on what we give but should be blessed if we do and this is another opportunity to tithe on this too. You see, all we have belongs to God anyway. You can't take it with you when you die, everything belongs to Him. And this is why we should be so grateful for all He gives to us. Amen? Amen!

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 
In Jesus' Name. Amen'
dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  
If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk
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