By Nelson Semanu BOANDOH-KORKOR & Elizabeth BOANDOH-KORKOR
How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things! ~Romans 10:14-15 NKJV
- The anxiety of the future
Certain believers appear to lack the conviction that if they contribute their income to support God’s work, He will adequately provide for their needs. This doubt indicates a deficiency in their faith in God’s provision.
Another rationale for some believers refraining from financial contributions toward kingdom endeavours is a lack of faith in God’s sufficiency. They may question whether giving 10 percent of their income to God will leave them with enough to cover their expenses for the remainder of the month, without resorting to borrowing or seeking assistance from friends and family.
“I will not take a bull from your house, nor goats out of your folds. For every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the mountains, and the wild beasts of the field are Mine.” – Psalm 50:9-11 NKJV
This passage from Psalms serves as a poignant reminder that God is the ultimate owner of all things. He provides us with an opportunity to shape our destinies by entrusting us to give back a portion of what He has blessed us with.
Trusting in His providence is essential, as exemplified in the declaration: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.” – Psalm 23:1-2 NKJV
- ‘I am in debt’
While being in debt can indeed present challenges, it should not serve as the sole justification for failing to support the gospel financially. God calls upon us to heed His word regardless of our circumstances.
Even in the midst of personal or business indebtedness, it is essential to recognise that contributing to God’s work remains a meaningful obligation. Your business may be burdened by debt, but God’s expectation for tithing and giving toward His kingdom persists. As an employee facing unemployment, God still encourages you to offer tithes from the modest earnings you receive. This demonstrates your steadfast devotion to God.
It’s worth noting that individuals who struggle to remain faithful during adversity may encounter similar difficulties when circumstances improve. While grappling with debt is undoubtedly trying, obeying God’s commandments during these times can usher in divine intervention and lead to a transformation of your situation. Place your trust in Him and allow His guidance to guide your path.
- Negative influences
We’ve encountered accounts of devoted Christians who once wholeheartedly contributed tithes and offerings. Their generosity flowed abundantly whenever their local church embarked on projects. Regrettably, certain companions entered their lives, dissuading them from allocating their resources to pastors.
These acquaintances asserted that tithing was unnecessary and that blessings from God extended even to those who didn’t tithe. Subsequently, their enthusiasm for supporting kingdom endeavours waned.
As a result, they redirected their finances toward indulgences such as alcohol, relationships and drugs, forsaking their commitment to tithing and advancing the kingdom. This shift can aptly be termed as succumbing to negative influences.
The ancient wisdom of Proverbs 13:20, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed”, holds true in these instances. Similarly, I Corinthians 15:33 warns against deception: “Evil company corrupts good habits”.
It serves as a powerful reminder that the company we keep profoundly impacts our actions and beliefs. Just as walking alongside the wise fosters wisdom, aligning with those who lack understanding can lead to detrimental outcomes. This underscores the importance of safeguarding our associations and seeking guidance from those who nurture our spiritual growth.
- They place low value on souls
It cannot be overstated that the human soul holds immeasurable value in the eyes of God. Touching God’s heart finds its highest expression in guiding souls toward Him. The worth of a single soul eclipses all the riches the world could offer.
In the words of Jesus, who declared: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth”, the imperative beckons: go forth and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to embrace all that I have commanded, for my presence shall accompany you until the culmination of time itself.
Monetary contributions directed to pastors, offered in the name of God, find purpose in furthering deeds that honour Him. Through this conduit, offerings ascend to God’s favour, resulting in blessings upon those who sacrificially give. Regrettably, some may underestimate the profound impact of their financial support upon the kingdom’s mission – a mission intricately woven with the salvation and nurturing of souls.
A comprehensive exploration of this matter is delved into within our publication titled ‘Overcoming Financial Drunkenness: Kingdom Guidelines on Attaining Riches with Righteousness’.
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]
