COMMENTARY

Don Atkin

ANOTHER LOOK AT MONEY

When I was a young man ~ before I yielded to the loving lordship of Jesus Christ ~ I had a small grape vineyard. We had a contract with Welch for our harvest, and looked forward to the profits at the end of a long year of investing in pruning, tying, cultivating and fertilizing. Money was tight, and we looked forward to income replacing outgo.

However, on the eve of our appointed time for harvest (dictated by Welch), there was a hail storm that stripped the vines of the entire crop. It was a total loss.

Not long afterward, the accumulation of self-imposed disasters led me to cry out to God, who wonderfully rescued me, and set me on the path toward living in His blessings. It was only after being born again (that which is born of the Spirit is spirit) that I discovered:

"Bring the tithes into the storehouse . . . . I will open the windows of heaven and pour out . . . . blessing . . . . I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, so that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you" . . . . says the Lord of hosts . . . . (from Malachi 3:8-12).

I realize that, at this point, I will lose some of you who are preoccupied with being freed from "Old Testament law." But, for those who are looking for reasonable guidance on how to live in the blessings of a generous God, may this have life-giving counsel.

Furthermore, I realize that Jesus has redeemed us from the curse of the law. However, He has not redeemed us from the consequences of our own activities and/or inactivity. (Hear me now!) No sowing; no reaping. Wrong sowing; no reaping.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. - II Timothy 3:16-17

God’s promise through Malachi is part of the whole body of revealed truth that makes up my personal doctrine regarding living in His blessings. (This is my testimony.) My daily needs are met as I seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:31-34). All these things are added as a result of kingdom living.

Living in God’s blessings, under open heavens, is the result of bringing the tithes into the storehouse ~ serving Him and not mammon. Financial faithfulness (which often requires faith) is the best demonstration of where our hearts abide. Therefore,

Honor the Lord with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine. - Proverbs 3:9-10