by Tom Teckmeyer

Permit me, if you will, the opportunity to share some thoughts on the writings of an Old Testament prophet. We must not discount the value of the Old Testament simply because we live under grace. God's Word is comprised of 66 books, all of which are of great value and worth in revealing to us the heart and mind of God (1 Timothy 3:16,17).

Malachi 3:7-12 details the importance of giving to God what is rightfully His. One of the statements people make to me all the time is, "We can't afford to tithe or give anything to the Lord because we have so many debts and financial obligations." According to Malachi, not giving to God and debts go hand in hand.

God told His people through His prophet, "You have robbed me, because you have not brought a sacrifice or offering" (Malachi 3:8). Verse 10 says, "Do not rob or steal from me but rather bring in all your tithes and offerings. If you do, I will pour out blessings to you in such a way that you will not be able to handle it all."

Verse 11 is where the crop insurance comes in. Again, God says through Malachi, "I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit. Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land." What a promise! If we give nothing to God, we rob Him and cannot expect Him to keep the destroyer from our car's transmission, or the furnace in our house or our health. Certainly, unforeseen financial hardships are a part of life. If we are faithful and rich in our giving to God, however, He will be faithful to protect us and provide a way through life's financial storms.

Try it and see. I know you will not be disappointed. In 2 Samuel 24:24, David said, "I will not sacrifice to the Lord offerings that cost me nothing." That is the principle and example that is set before us. What have you give to the Lord out of your love and devotion to Him?

Tom Teckmeyer is president of Teckmeyer Financial Services in Omaha, Nebraska.