Revelations 22:12-21

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Read Revelations 22:12-21 Verses for meditation: Revelations 22:12-13, 16, 20-21 ESV: 12 "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” 16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” 20 He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! 21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. Reflect How does it feel to be reading the very last few verses of the bible? What do the proclamations, the last few of them, say about Christ? Come, Lord Jesus! Does this really express our desire? How does the greatest book end, and on what note? But is this really the end? Relate With mixed feelings, I'm writing this last devotion based on the final ten verses of the greatest book, the bible. What a journe...
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Leviticus 27; Psalm 73

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Read

Leviticus 27; Psalm 73

Verse chosen for meditation: Leviticus 27:30 ESV

“Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord's; it is holy to the Lord."


Reflect

Two weeks ago, we looked at 2 types of offering, sin and guilt, and learned the subtle difference between them.


Today, we look at yet another category of payment and offering, redemption and tithe. 


But before we take a closer look, we need first to differentiate between dedicated and devoted things. Though seemingly alike, they cannot be more different.


Relate


The things that are dedicated may be redeemed or bought back. Like taking out a mortgage on a house for instance. Once the full repayment is made, one can rightfully claim back the house. Such items usually mean a lot to the owner. Except that for the duration of the repayment, they belong to the mortgagee, which is usually the bank, or in some cases, the pawnshop.


The Israelites found themselves in a similar situation whenever they made a vow to God. They would dedicate something of worth to God, which could be redeemed or bought back at a later date. The value would be ascertained by the priest in accordance with the law.


The things that are devoted, on the other hand, are things that cannot be sold or redeemed. They belong to God exclusively. As such, they are holy to him, or set apart for him. And this decision is non - reversible.


What about tithe?


The word 'tithe' is related to the number 'ten' (eser) and in this context, it simply means a tenth or ten percent. In any case, it was not a new concept to the Israelites. As it was observed as early back in the days of Abraham and Jacob (Genesis 14:20; 28:20-22).


Personally, I view tithe as something that is 'devoted' to God rather than 'dedicated'. It's a way of telling myself that the offering belongs to God in the first place and it's never mine to begin with.


I remember donating the whole of my first paycheque as a Medical Officer to Missions years ago. It was then my way of offering God the first fruits of my labour. Though it was not in response to any vow that I had made, it somehow felt like a redemption. In that sense, it seems more like a 'dedication'.


The Old Testament Laws on tithing could form the basis of our present day giving though the New Testament emphasis is more on the attitude of giving than tithing. Besides, giving is also a spiritual issue, not only a financial issue (Luke 16:11). For it's dependent on how we view God and our material possessions.


So, whether we're tithing or giving, God loves a cheerful giver. I was reminded too that joy can be derived from giving. 


Rest


Lord, accept our giving. In some ways, they are dedicated as they are in response to what you have done for us. But mostly, they are devoted as they rightfully belong to you. Help us then to be faithful and cheerful givers.


Naville Chia


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