Are you good at math? I can vividly remember my first algebra class in junior high. The teacher drew on the chalkboard…
“x = ?”
And then in a very unenthusiastic monotone voice he said, “Algebra is about finding out what x is worth.” My friend turned to me and said, “I think we’re going to hate this class.” He was right. It wasn’t too long before things got pretty confusing.
That experience left me not liking math and lacking confidence when came to it. But 15 years later while earning my Private Pilot’s License, during the training process I discovered that math could actually be fun and very useful. What was the difference? Besides having an amazing instructor, I was doing something I loved.
The right combination
In algebra “x” (the variable) can only be determined by correctly factoring the constant terms in the equation/expression.
When you land an airplane (and not crash it) you must get three things in perfect order: airspeed, line-up, glideslope.
My phone, my computer, my house, and many other things I own require a security code to be entered. If you don’t know it, or forget it, they won’t open. You could even have all the right numbers, but they must be entered in the right combination.
God has told us that He will bless our finances when the correct combination for our giving is followed. The first tenth of all our increase belong to him. Then the giving of other offerings follows after this. This combination is essential. You could give offerings, but if the tithe is skipped, God will not bless that.
God has a math class
There are certain ideas about money taught in the church that have become so hotly contested that people feel much the way I did after that math class—confused and not liking the subject.
Some would argue that tithing is not a New Covenant principle. There are those who teach tithing as a formula to get wealth. In contrast, there are others who teach poverty as a way to prove holiness. Correct understanding about money, giving, generosity, and faith have become difficult to grasp.
But I can see God writing on a chalkboard,
cheerful giving + generosity = financial blessing
And then in a very enthusiastic voice saying, “I want you to understand this, because if you get this combination correct, you’ll find that money can actually be fun and very useful in my Kingdom.”
I think we’re going to love this class!
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