By Nelson Semanu BOANDOH-KORKOR & Elizabeth BOANDOH-KORKOR
Nevertheless, you have done well that you shared in my distress. 15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities.
17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. 18 Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. 19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus ~Philippians 4: 14-19 NKJV
No valid justification exists for neglecting gospel financing. This is because, supporting the dissemination of the gospel brings forth numerous advantages. Nonetheless, certain believers present diverse rationales for their lack of participation.
Frequently, these individuals provide explanations for their incapacity to contribute to the financial progress of the kingdom. Within this chapter, we will delve into some of these explanations.
- God has no need for my finances
Certain individuals contend that since God is the ultimate owner of all things, He does not require their monetary contributions to accomplish His purposes. They assert that God possesses the ability to procure whatever resources He requires to fulfill His will.
Regrettably, this perspective rests on a fundamental misunderstanding. Why is this a misconception? The Scriptures offer several passages emphasizing the importance of dedicating our financial and other resources to advance the kingdom.
“Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase.” – Proverbs 3:9 NKJV
- I can’t afford to contribute!
Some believers assert that their financial resources are insufficient to support ministry endeavors, citing their own needs as a reason for not contributing. They contend that those with higher incomes are better positioned to invest in kingdom work. Unfortunately, this perspective overlooks a crucial truth – it is often individuals with limited means who display remarkable faithfulness in supporting the advancement of the kingdom.
At times, certain Christians provide justifications for withholding their financial contributions from the church, even as they indulge in extravagant spending on pursuits devoid of eternal significance. This contrast is disheartening.
The reality is that the measure of one’s financial capacity is not the determining factor; it is a reflection of the heart’s disposition. Indeed, some consistently allocate their tithes and offerings diligently within the church, while others with substantial incomes deem their contributions to be disproportionately substantial.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21 NKJV
Our commitment should be to faithfully steward the resources entrusted to us by God, regardless of their scale. As we earnestly pray for financial blessings and God opens doors, it is imperative to allocate His portion back to Him. When pledging to the church, it is our duty to fulfill our commitments to the best of our abilities.
“Offer to God thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High.” – Psalm 50:14 NKJV
- My church mismanages funds
Some individuals within the church contend that the leadership’s handling of tithes and offerings raises concerns about financial mismanagement. Consequently, they decide to withhold their financial contributions. Tragically, these individuals squander the resources they should have dedicated to God’s work. It’s disheartening that such actions ultimately lead to wastefulness.
A curious paradox emerges when we compare this behavior with our approach to taxes. Despite recognizing that our hard-earned income isn’t always used efficiently by the government, we consistently fulfill our tax obligations. This discrepancy highlights a double standard in our stewardship.
As believers, our allegiance should be to follow God’s commands rather than concocting our own philosophies. We are instructed to bring all our tithes into the storehouse, without specifying how they should be managed.
However, this directive doesn’t preclude us from also pursuing other initiatives that aim to positively impact society, provided we remain faithful in dedicating our tithes to God’s work. It is imperative that we refrain from diverting funds meant for God’s purposes to our personal endeavors.
Nelson Semanu Boandoh-Korkor is a distinguished figure, acclaimed as an Author, Publishing Consultant, Christian Business Coach, and a fervent Financial Evangelist. Nelson is a forex trader, cryptocurrency investor and metaverse enthusiast.
Elizabeth Boandoh-Korkor (CA) is an accomplished Chartered Accountant with extensive experience as a Financial Management Consultant, spanning close to two decades in both the not-for-profit and banking sectors. You can reach out to them on +233549762233 or [email protected]
