(Malachi 3)
The spiritual life can suffer many things
Malachi is often quoted
In relation to tithing and offering
But, in the middle of the 53 verses that are Malachi
There are 7 verses that are the pivotal issue
And they aren't about money.
They are about devotion, faithfulness, covenant
And, not cheating on your wife.
Now, there is a lesson in every human picture
That speaks of the heavenly realm.
And, when it comes to "giving money to God" (as if the Almighty had a mortgage to pay on the new Jerusalem!)
We often miss the point of the heavenly
Because it's not about the money at all
It's about devotion and faithfulness
And letting God purify our hearts.
If I give a tenth without love, what good is that?
I have to let Him "sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.." in my life.
Then, "the tithe" takes on a new wonderful depth
Because it means every time I write the cheque
I lovingly give myself as well.
And become that "cheerful giver" that God loves.