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Counsels on Stewardship
The True Reason for Withholding
I saw that some have excused themselves from aiding the cause
of God because they were in debt. Had they closely examined their
own hearts, they would have discovered that selfishness was the true
reason why they brought no freewill offering to God. Some will always
remain in debt. Because of their covetousness, the prospering hand
of God will not be with them to bless their undertakings. They love
this world better than they love the truth. They are not being fitted up
and made ready for the kingdom of God.—
Testimonies for the Church
1:225
.
Withheld Tithes Because of Lack of Confidence
The tithe is sacred, reserved by God for Himself. It is to be brought
into His treasury to be used to sustain the gospel laborers in their work.
For a long time the Lord has been robbed because there are those who
do not realize that the tithe is God’s reserved portion.
Some have been dissatisfied, and have said, “I will not longer pay
my tithe; for I have no confidence in the way things are managed at
the heart of the work.” But will you rob God because you think the
management of the work is not right? Make your complaint, plainly
and openly, in the right spirit, to the proper ones. Send in your petitions
for things to be adjusted and set in order; but do not withdraw from
the work of God, and prove unfaithful, because others are not doing
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right.—
Testimonies for the Church 9:249
.
The First Duty to God
Some have felt under sacred obligations to their children. They
must give each a portion, but feel themselves unable to raise means
to aid the cause of God. They make the excuse that they have a duty
to their children. This may be right, but their first duty is to God....
Let no one throw in his claims and lead you to rob God. Let not your
children steal your offering from God’s altar for their own benefit.—
Testimonies for the Church 1:220
.
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