8. The Spirit Of Stinginess

 

It seems clear that in many cases in the scriptures that a meeting with God resulted in a new and generous heart…ie Zaccheus Luke 19:1-10. It should be emphasised that Jesus saw his response of loosening the purse strings as confirmation that he was saved… ‘Today salvation has come to this house’

I believe that the church today as a result of obeying the ‘Law of tithing’ has allowed a pharisaic spirit to develop which is demonstrated in Luke 18:12. It boasts ‘I fast twice a week and give tithes of all I possess’ but in its heart it says ‘and because I have complied with my financial obligations I am right with God and the rest is mine to hoard!’…… (‘it is Gods blessing on my life’)

My experience is that God says differently…….. I would challenge you to say that to God and ask him to speak to your heart about it.

Try praying Psalm 139:23 and 24 

                        ‘Search me, O God, and know my heart;

                         test me and know my anxious thoughts. 

                         See if there is any offensive way in me,

                         And lead me in the way everlasting’

 

Robbing Gods people of the blessing and joy of giving 

It is my experience that when we give because we have to do so under a Law, WE ARE ROBBED OF THE JOY OF GIVING. Romans 7 and 8 are a great read. The goal is to be led by the Spirit and as a child of God to participate in his kingdom being preached to all nations and to see others saved and to bless those in need. 

It is the greatest joy of a Christian to contribute what he can and be part of Gods purpose.  

When Gods people are not giving ‘under compulsion’ they are cheerful givers.