Deuteronomy 8:17-18
Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’ You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.
Observe that God’s Word here warns us against the danger of arrogant self-talk. Beloved, what we say in our hearts matters and affects our lifestyle and our destiny. It is dangerous to claim credit for your success. If we don’t watch it, we can all easily fall into the trap of self-worship. It’s quite easy for you and I to enthrone our own will, interests and desires as an idol to worship. God forbid!
Rather, we must remember the living God, as the One who empowers us to prosper. How do we “remember” the Lord? First, by THANKING Him for every blessing (see Psalm 103:1-3). Take time to praise God for all His benefits, for every breakthrough, for every penny you’ve received via any channel.
Secondly, pay your TITHE and offering whenever you receive income (see Malachi 3:8-10). Tithing is not only a way of honouring the Lord with your substance (Pro 3:9), but is also a way of allowing God to open the windows of heaven on your behalf (Mal. 3:10). Every genuine Christian must obey the Word of God in this regard too. Don’t let pride cause you to rob God of what belongs to Him.
Remember that the Lord Jesus says, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Mark 12:17). That means true believers faithfully pay taxes to government and faithfully pay tithes to God. It is wrong for us to pay sales tax, council tax, income tax, et cetera to earthly authorities, but refuse to pay our tithe to the Heavenly Authority. That means we fear govt more than we fear God. Lord have mercy!
Let us repent from the sins of pride, self-worship and disobedience. Let us practice giving all the glory to God for every blessing we receive. Let us be faithful in remembering and honouring (worshipping) God with our first fruits, tithes and offerings. Let God open the windows of heaven’s blessings over your life, family and church.
Pastor Josh