Above & Beyond: How God Exceeds Our ExpectationsSample

Tested

When we hear the scripture in Malachi chapter three, we associate it with tithing. However, while the context is financial giving, I believe the principle translates to other areas of life. I believe it paints a bigger picture of a God who honors those who honor the principles of sowing and reaping, sacrificial giving, and serving His Kingdom. I appreciate God’s boldness when He implores us to test Him (Mal 3:10). Talk about above and beyond! He doesn’t say that if we tithe (or give in general), He will ensure we don’t suffer. It doesn’t say that if we give our first fruits, He will do the bare minimum and even the score. He promises a blessing that we can hardly contain.

In Luke chapter six, God says, “if we give, it will be given to us in full measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over.”This shouldn’t be mistaken for a spiritual slot machine. We can easily be fooled into giving as a means to an end that works better for us. As with many biblical standards and principles, the condition of our hearts is where the rubber meets the road. God knows our motives and self-fulfilling agendas and will judge accordingly.

That said, a servant’s heart that gives to bless others will be rewarded (not solely in financial terms). Scripture says God loves a cheerful giver and that we are more blessed to give than receive. Chew on that for a minute. When we honor God and serve his people, He blesses us above and beyond our realm of expectation.