Dag 24 Hoofstuk 17 “Vensters van die Hemel Oopmaak”

This is a pretty powerful statement from God. Nowhere else in Scripture does God tell us to test Him, except here in this verse. What is it that God says will cause Him to open the windows of heaven, pouring out His blessing on us until it overflows?

Hierdie is ‘n baie kragtige verklaring van God. Nêrens anders in die Bybel sê God vir ons om Hom te beproef nie, behalwe hier in hierdie vers. Wat is dit wat God sê sal die oorsaak wees dat Hy die vensters van die hemel sal oopmaak, en Sy seëninge in oorvloed oor ons sal stort.

“‘Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,’ says the Lord of hosts, ‘if I will not open for you the windows of heaven, and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows’” (Mal. 3:10).

“‘Bring die volle tiende na die voorraadkamer toe sodat daar iets te ete in my huis kan wees, en toets My hierin, sê die Here die Almagtige. Toets My of Ek nie die vensters van die hemel vir julle sal oopmaak en vir julle reën sal uitgiet, meer as wat julle kan gebruik nie.”’ (Mal. 3:10).

Did you see it? It’s tithing. Tithing will cause God to open the windows of heaven and shower His blessings over your life!

Sien jy dit? Dit is tiendes. Tiendes sal meebring dat God die vensters van die hemel sal oopmaak en Sy seëninge oor jou lewe uitstort!

Many Christians shy away from learning as much as they can about this important principle, but please don’t miss this! God wants us to be faithful and obedient in all things, and when we neglect or choose to be disobedient in one area of our lives, it spills over into other areas as well.

Baie Christene probeer wegskram daarvan om soveel moontlik van hierdie belangrike beginsel te leer, maar moet dit asseblief nie mis nie! God wil hê dat ons getrou en gehoorsaam moet wees in alle dinge, en wanneer ons versuim of verkies om ongehoorsaam te wees in een area van ons lewens, daan vloei dit ook oor in ander areas.

What exactly is tithing? It is giving back to God ten percent of the first of your increase.

Wat presies is tiendes? Dit is om 10% van die eerste van jou wins aan God terug te gee.

Our society as a whole is ignorant of this principle. Many churches fail their people by neglecting to teach the importance of tithing. Why is it so serious? Because God is angry when we fail to give back to Him what is rightfully His. “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it” (Ps. 24:1). Tithing is an act of worship.

Ons gemeenskap in geheel is onbewus van hierdie beginsel. Baie kerke faal hulle lede deur nalatig te wees om die belangrike lering rondom tiendes te leer. Waarom is dit so ernstig? Want God word kwaad as ons faal om vir Hom terug te gee wat geregtiglik aan Hom behoort. “Die aarde en alles wat daarop is, die wêreld en dié wat daar woon, alles behoort aan die Here” (Ps. 24:1). Tiendes is ‘n gebaar van aanbidding.

There are too many Christians who either live in poverty or are in as much debt as the unbeliever. But God wants to make every believer “the head and not the tail.” He wants you to be “above” and “not be underneath” debt or anything else that will rule or control your life (Deut. 28:13). We are told, “Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another . . .” (Rom. 13:8). “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender’s slave” (Prov. 22:7).

Daar is te veel Christene wat eerder in armoede lewe of in net soveel skuld is soos die ongelowige. Maar God wil elke gelowige die “kop maak en  nie die stert” nie. Hy wil hê jy moet “bo” en nie “onder” skuld of enigiets anders wees wat jou lewe beheer nie (Deut. 28:13). Ons word gesê, “Wees aan niemand iets skuldig nie, behalwe om mekaar lief te hê . . . “ (Rom. 13:8). “Die ryke heers oor die armes, en hy wat leen, is ‘n slaaf van die man wat uitleen” (Spr. 22:7).

Most Christians in the United States are blessed with so much, especially if we look at other nations and the level of poverty at which most people of the world live. We spend our earnings on pleasures while our churches, missionaries, and ministries struggle to make ends meet. Why? Because we try to hold onto what is not rightfully ours to keep.

Meeste Christene is met so baie geseën, veral as ons kyk na ander nasies en die vlak van armoede waarin meeste van die mense in die wêreld leef. Ons spandeer ons inkomste op plesier terwyl ons kerke, sendelinge, en bedienings finansieël sukkel om deur te kom. Waarom? Want ons probeer vashou aan dit wat nie geregtiglik ons sin is om te hou nie.

We take but give little. “Now this I say, he who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully. Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:6).

Ons vat maar gee min trug. “Dink daaraan: wie karig saai, sal karig oes; en wie volop saai, sal volop oes. Elkeen moet gee soos hy hom in sy hart voorgeneem het, nie met teensin of uit dwang nie, want God het die blymoedige gewer lief” (2 Kor. 9:6).

We ask and wonder why we don’t receive. “You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures” (James 4:3).

Ons vra en wonder waarom ons nie ontvang nie. “As julle bid, ontvang julle nie, omdat julle verkeerd bid: julle wil net julle selfsugtige begeertes bevredig” (Jakobus 4:3).

God wanted to bless His people, but He did not because they were unwilling to give into His storehouse. He tells them in Hag. 1:6–7, “‘You have sown much, but harvest little; you eat, but there is not enough to be satisfied; you drink, but there is not enough to become drunk; you put on clothing, but no one is warm enough; and he who earns, earns wages to put into a purse with holes. Thus says the Lord of hosts, ‘Consider your ways!’”

God wou sy mense seën, maar Hy het nie omdat hulle onwillig was om aan Sy skathuis te gee. Hy sê vir hulle in Hag. 1:6-7, Julle het baie gesaai, maar min geoes; julle het geëet, maar nie genoeg gekry nie; julle het gedrink, maar dors gebly; julle het klere aangetrek, maar nie warm geword nie; julle is soos 'n dagloner wat sy loon in 'n stukkende beursie steek. So sê die Here die Almagtige: Neem ter harte wat met julle gebeur!”’

“‘You look for much, but behold, it comes to little; when you bring it home, I blow it away. Why?’ declares the Lord of hosts, ‘Because of My house which lies desolate, while each of you runs to his own house’” (Hag. 1:9).

“‘Julle het 'n groot oes verwag, maar min gekry, en wat julle nog huis toe gebring het, het Ek laat verdwyn. Waarom? vra die Here die Almagtige. Omdat my huis in puin lê, terwyl elkeen van julle hard besig is om aan sy eie huis te werk”’ (Hag. 1:9).

Understanding Tithing
Verstaan Tiendes

It is ironic that so many Christians erroneously believe that they are not able to “afford” to tithe and bless God through offerings. The truth is that they are simply caught in a vicious cycle that only obedience and faith can cure. They can’t afford to give because they rob God to pay men, thereby robbing themselves of being blessed!

Dit is ironies dat so baie Christene foutiewiglik glo dat hulle nie kan “bekostig” om hulle tiendes te gee en God met offerandes te seën nie. Die waarheid is dat hulle eenvoudig vasgevang is in ‘n bose sirkel wat slegs gehoorsaamheid en geloof kan genees. Hulle kan nie bekostig om te gee nie want hulle beroof God om mense te betaal, maar eintlik beroof hulle hulleself om geseën te word!

As a matter of fact, it is when we are in deep poverty that God asks us to give. The Christians in Macedonia understood and applied this principle of giving: “Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity” (2 Cor. 8:2). Sounds a bit like many of us, doesn’t it?

Om die waarheid te sê, dit is wanneer ons diep in die armoede is wat God ons vra om te gee. Die Christene in Macedonië het hierdie beginsel van gee verstaan en toegepas: “Al was hulle swaar beproef deur verdrukking, hulle blydskap was oorvloedig; en al was hulle baie arm, hulle was ryk in hulle oorvloedige vrygewigheid” (2 Kor. 8:2). Klink ‘n  bietjie soos baie van ons, doen dit nie?

Why 10%?

Waarom 10%

The word tithe in the Hebrew is “ma‘asrah,” which translates to “a tenth.” So whenever God speaks to us in His Word and says to “tithe,” He is saying to give Him a tenth.

Die woord tiende in Hebreeus is “ma’asrah,” wat oorvertaal tot “‘n tiende.” So wanneer God ookal met ons praat in Sy Woord en “tiende” sê, sê Hy om Hom ‘n tiende te gee. 

Why should I give my tithe first, before paying my bills?

Waarom moet ek my tiende eerste gee, voor ek my rekeninge betaal?

This is the principle of “first fruits” of our labor. Deuteronomy 18:4 tells us, “You shall give him the first fruits of your grain, your new wine, and your oil, and the first shearing of your sheep.” Then, in Exodus 34:24 and 26, God says, “For I will drive out nations before you and enlarge your borders. . . . You shall bring the very first of the first fruits of your soil into the house of the Lord your God. . . .”

Dit is die beginsel van “eerste vrugte” van ons arbeid. Deuteronomium 18:4 sê vir ons, “jy moet vir die priester die beste deel gee van jou koringoes en jou wynoes, van jou olie-opbrengs en jou wolskeersel. “ Dan, in Eksodus 34:24 en 26, sê God,  “Ek sal nasies voor jou uit verdryf en vir jou 'n land gee. . .  “Die keur van die eerste produkte van jou lande moet jy na my huis toe bring, die huis van die Here jou God. . .”

This also is confirmed in the New Testament when Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.”

Dit is ook in die Nuwe Testament bevestig wanneer Jesus vir ons in Matteus 6:33 sê, “Nee, beywer julle allereers vir die koninkryk van God en vir die wil van God, dan sal Hy julle ook al hierdie dinge gee.”

Where should I tithe?

Waar moet ek my tiende gee?

Malachi 3:10 tells us, “‘Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,’ says the Lord of hosts, ‘if I will not open for you the windows of heaven, and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows.’”

Maleagi 3:10sê vir ons, “Bring die volle tiende na die voorraadkamer toe sodat daar iets te ete in my huis kan wees, en toets My hierin, sê die Here die Almagtige. Toets My of Ek nie die vensters van die hemel vir julle sal oopmaak en vir julle reën sal uitgiet, meer as wat julle kan gebruik nie.”

Your storehouse is where you are spiritually fed. Many Christians make the mistake of giving where they are not spiritually fed but would rather give where they see there is a need—but this is foolishness. It is like going to a restaurant, ordering a meal, but when the check comes telling the cashier that you would rather give to the restaurant down the street that is not doing too well!

Jou voorraadkamer is waar jy geestelik gevoed word. Baie Christene maak die fout om te gee waar hulle nie geestelik gevoed word maar waar hulle sien daar ‘n behoefte is—maar dit is dwaasheid. Dit is soos om na ‘n restaurant toe te gaan, ‘n maaltyd te bestel, maar dan wanneer die rekening kom dan vertel jy vir die kassier dat jy eerder vir die restaurant in die straat af sal gee wat nie so goed doen nie!!

If you are attending a church where you are being spiritually fed, then you should be tithing at least a tenth of your income to your home church. That means that if you attend church and feel led to sow financially into our ministry (or any other ministry or missions), then this would be an offering “above and beyond” your tithe. We don’t want you to steal from your church to sow into our ministry “for this would be unprofitable for you” (Heb. 15:17).

Indien jy ‘n kerk bywoon waar jy geestlik gevoed word, dan behoort jy ten minste ‘n tiende van jou inkomste aan jou tuiskerk te gee. Dit beteken dat as jy kerk bywoon en gelei voel om finansieël aan ons bediening te saai (of enige ander bedienings of sending organisasies), dan sal dit ‘n offernade “bo en behalwe” jou tiende wees. Ons wil nie hê dat jy van jou kerk steel om in ons bediening te saai nie “want dit sal nie-winsgewend vir jou wees nie” (Heb. 15:17).

However, many of our fellowship members who are not attending a church (for a variety of reasons) and are being fed through our ministry tithe by sowing into restoring marriages, since this is where they are being spiritually fed.

Maar, baie van ons bediening lidmate wie nie ‘n kerk bywoon nie (vir ‘n verskeidenheid van reds) en word deur ons bediening gevoed gee hulle tiends deur in die herstelling van huwelike te saai, aangsien dit is waar hulle geeestelik gevoed word.

Again, as we have encouraged you throughout this book—seek God. This goes for everything, including your finances. Then be obedient and faithful to Him!

Weer, soos wat ons jou dwarsdeur hierdie boek bemoedig—soek God. Dit gaan vir alles, insluitende jou finansies. Wees gelowig en getrou aan Hom!

Don’t make the mistake of diligently following all the principles for restoring your marriage yet fail to tithe, lest you find your marriage unrestored because you are stealing from God.

Moenie die fout maak om al die beginsels om jou huwelik te herstel getrou te volg nie tog faal jy om jou tiende te gee, dan vind jy jou huwelik onherstel omdat jy van God af steel.

Remember, Malachi 3:8–10 tells us, “Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing Me! But you say, ‘How have we robbed Thee?’ In tithes and offerings. You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing Me, the whole nation of you!”

Onthou, Maleagi 3:8-10 sê vir ons, Sal 'n mens werklik vir God beroof? Tog beroof julle My. Julle vra: “Waarvan beroof ons U?” Van tiendes en offergawes. Daar rus alreeds 'n vloek op julle en tog bly julle My beroof; die hele nasie doen dit.”

But since I am not under the law and I live by grace, 10% is no longer required, is it?

Maar sedert ek nie onder die wet staan nie en ek deur genade lewe, is 10% nie meer ‘n vereiste nie, is dit?

God’s grace warrants giving more, not less. When we have experienced His forgiveness, His mercy, His compassion, and His sacrifice of His shed blood whereby we become partakers of His glory, it will increase our willingness to give more, certainly not less.

God se genade verdien dat ons meer gee, nie minder nie. Wanneer ons sy vergifnis ervaar het, Sy genade, Sy deernis, en Sy opoffering van Sy gestorte bloed waardeur ons deelnemers is van Sy glorie, sal dit ons gewilligheid vermeerder om meer, definitief nie minder te gee nie.

“. . . Freely you received, freely give” (Matt. 10:8).

“. . . Julle het dit verniet ontvang, verniet moet julle dit gee” (Matt. 10:8).

“He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?” (Rom. 8:32).

“Hy het sy eie Seun nie gespaar nie, maar Hom oorgelewer om ons almal te red. Sal Hy ons dan nie al die ander dinge saam met Hom uit genade skenk nie?” (Rom. 8:32).

However, “. . . he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully. Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:6).

Hoewel, “. . .  wie karig saai, sal karig oes; en wie volop saai, sal volop oes. Elkeen moet gee soos hy hom in sy hart voorgeneem het, nie met teensin of uit dwang nie, want God het die blymoedige gewer lief” (2 Kor. 9:6).

But if we are doubleminded and don’t really trust that God will provide for us, “let this man expect that he will receive nothing from the Lord.” When we hold onto what we have to try to take care of ourselves, we will never see God’s awesome power on our behalf.

Maar as ons onbestendig is en nie regtig vertrou dat God vir ons sal voorsien nie, moet nie dink dat hy iets van die Here sal ontvang nie.” Wanneer ons vashou aan wat ons moet om te probeer om onsself te versorg, sal ons nooit God se ongelooflike krag om ons onthalwe sien nie.  

God’s desire is to pour His power and His blessings into our lives. When we tithe, we are being obedient. But when, out of utter gratitude and worship, we freely give offerings beyond what is commanded, we are truly opening the door for God to pour out His blessings and do His pleasure in our lives.

God se begeerte is om Sy krag en Sy seëninge in ons lewens uit te stort. Wanneer ons ons tiendes gee, is ons gehoorsaam. Maar wanneer, ons uit dankbaarheid en aanbidding, vrylik offerandes gee bo en behalwe wat ons beveel word, maak ons werklik die deur oop vir God om Sy seëninge uit te stort en om Sy plesier in ons lewens te doen.

We know He “is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us” (Eph. 3:20, KJV).

Ons weet dat Hy “wat deur Sy krag in ons werk magtig is om oneindig meer te doen as wat ons bid of dink” (Efe. 3:20, Afr 83).

“Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33, KJV). Do we take God at His Word or not?

“Nee, beywer julle allereers vir die koninkryk van God en vir die wil van God, dan sal Hy julle ook al hierdie dinge gee” (Matt. 6:33, Afr 83). Neem ons God op Sy Woord of nie?

Principles of Stewardship
Beginsels van Rentmeesterskap

As we have seen, tithing is an important principle in the Bible. God expects us to tithe back to Him a portion of what He has so generously given to us. Indeed, all that He has given us is still His—we are stewards that He has entrusted to care for the earth and all that is in it. How we handle what He has entrusted to us—our money, our talents, our time and our family—demonstrates our obedience to His Word, our trust in His promise to provide, and, most importantly, our faith in Him.

Soos ons gesien het, tiendes is ‘n belangrike beginsel in die Bybel. God verwag dat ons ‘n gedeelte aan Hom terug moet gee wat wat Hy so vrygewig aan ons gegee het. Inderdaad, alles wat Hy vir ons gegee het is steeds Syne—ons is rentmeesters wat Hy toevertrou het om vir die aarde an alles wat daarin is te sorg. Hoe ons te werk gaan met dit wat Hy aan ons toevertrou het-ons geld, ons talente, ons tyd en ons familie—demonstreer ons gehoorsaamheid aan Sy Woord, ons vertrou in Sy belofte om te voorsien, en, mees belangrik, ons geloof in Hom.

The way you view and handle your finances is basic to your Christian growth, and understanding God’s principles of stewardship will enable you to mature in your spiritual walk and inherit the blessings God has for your life.

Die manier hoe jy jou finansies hanteer is basies aan jou Christelike groei. En die begrip van God se beginsels van rentemeesterskap sal jou in staat stel om volwasse te word in jou geestelike wandel en die seëninge erf wat God vir jou lewe het.

As you have read thus far in this book, God deals with many areas in our life that indirectly affect our marriage. It is not enough to concentrate on marriage principles exclusively, but again God is using this trial in your marriage to transform you more into His image as He draws you out of the world’s destruction and shows you the pathway to life.

Soos wat jy tot dusver in hierdie boek gelees het, reken God met baie areas in ons lewens af wat ons huwelik indirek beinvloed. Dit is nie genoeg om uitsluitlik op huweliks beginsels te konsentreer nie, maar weer gebruik God hierdie beproewing in jou huwelik om jou meer in Sy beeld te hervorm soos wat Hy jou uit die wêreld se verwoesting trek en jou die pad na die lewe wys.

The riches of God are not in order for us to “get rich” in the way the world seeks riches, but instead His blessings are part of our heritage. God wants to prosper us (Jer. 29:11) as long as He knows that we will use our inheritance wisely, without allowing prosperity to bring us to ruin. Giving a car to a child who is too young will most certainly end in tragedy. It is not until a parent sees maturity is he willing to turn over the keys of the car.

Die rykdom van God is nie vir ons om “ryk te word” op die manier waarop die wêreld rykdom soek nie, maar instede is Sy seëninge deel van ons erfenis. God wil ons seën (Jer. 29:11) solank Hy weet dat ons ons erfenis wys gebruik, sonder om toe te laat dat rykdom ons ruineer. Om ‘n motor vir ‘n kind te gee wat te jonk is, sal sekerlik in ‘n tragedie eindig. Eers wanneer die ouer volwassenheid sien is hy gewillig om die sleutels oor te gee.

God wants us to have a mature attitude toward money, for it has the power to affect our ability to make wise decisions: “Two things I asked of You, do not refuse me before I die: keep deception and lies far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is my portion, that I not be full and deny You and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or that I not be in want and steal, and profane the name of my God” (Prov. 30:7– 9).

God wil hê ons moet ‘n volwasse houding teenoor geld hê, want dit het die krag om ons vermoë om besluite te maak te affekteer. “Net twee dinge vra ek van U; moet my dit tog nie weier nie; daarna kan ek sterf: moenie toelaat dat ek vals is en lieg nie; moet my nie arm maak of ryk nie, gee my net die kos wat ek nodig het, sodat ek nie te veel het en U verloën en sê: “Wie is die Here?” nie, en sodat ek nie arm word en steel en my God se Naam oneer aandoen nie” (Spr. 30:7-9).

It is clear, though, that it is God’s desire to bless His children. Here are more verses that show God’s heart toward you as one of His:

Dit is duidelik, nietemin, dat dit God se begeerte is om Sy kinders te seën. Hier is nog verse wat God se hart teenoor jou as een van Sy eie wys:

“It is the blessing of the Lord that makes rich, and He adds no sorrow to it” (Prov. 10:22).

“Dit is die seën van die Here wat rykdom bring; jou geswoeg laat dit nie meer word nie” (Spr. 10:22).

“The reward of humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, honor and life” (Prov. 22:4).

“Wie nederig is, dien die Here en ontvang rykdom, eer en lewe” (Spr. 22:4).

“And by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches” (Prov. 24:4).

“Kennis om sy kamers te vul met allerhande kosbare en mooi goed” (Spr. 24:4).

“A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich will not go unpunished” (Prov. 28:20).

“'n Betroubare man is baie voorspoedig; een wat gou ryk wil word, sal sy straf kry” (Spr. 28:20).

These verses maintain that there are conditions to financial blessings (spiritual maturity) and that this is truly a heart issue (an absence of greed).

Hierdie verse hou vol dat daar voorwaardes is vir finansiële seëninge (geestelike volwassenheid) en dat dit werklik ‘n hartsaak is (‘n afwesigheid van gierigheid)

All of us want God’s blessings upon our life, but did you know that how you handle your financial blessings has a great deal to do with how you grow in the Lord and to what degree God is able to work in your life?

Almal van ons wil God se seëninge in ons lewe hê, maar het jy geweet dat hoe jy jou finansiële seëninge hanteer ‘n groot rol speel in hoe jy in die Here groei en tot watter mate God in staat is om in jou lewe te werk?

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be against the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions, or whatever is trusted in)” (Matt. 6:24, AMP).

“Niemand kan vir twee base tegelyk werk nie. Hy sal óf die een minder ag en die ander een hoër, óf vir die een meer oorhê en die ander een afskeep. Julle kan nie God én Mammon dien nie (misleidende rykdom, geld, besittings, of watookal op vertrou word)” (Matt. 6:24, Afr 83).

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” (Luke 16:10–11).

“Wie in die kleinste dinge betroubaar is, is ook in die groot dinge betroubaar; en wie in die kleinste dinge oneerlik is, is ook in groot dinge oneerlik. As julle dan nie betroubaar is in die hantering van die oneerlike mammon nie, wie sal die ware rykdom aan julle toevertrou? (Lukas 16:10-11).

To grow in our ability to be used of God, which is spiritual wealth, and gain the greater things (having the power and presence of God in our lives) depends in part on how we handle our finances.

Om in ons vermoë te groei om deur God gebruik te word, wat geestelike rykdom is, en die groter dinge te win (om God se krag en teenwoordigheid in ons lewens te hê) hang gedeeltelik af van hoe ons ons finansies hanteer.

To prove this further, there are roughly 500 references in the Bible to faith and 500 to prayer, but there are over 2,000 verses that refer to our finances! In addition to the spiritual laws that were set in place when God created the universe (see chapter 1), God has also established financial laws, which He has shared with us in His Word. We benefit from following the laws or suffer the consequences if we don’t. It doesn’t matter if we are ignorant of them or have chosen to reject them; these laws, like gravity, exist and cannot be debated.

Om dit verder te bewys, daar is ongeveer 500 verwysings in die Bybel oor gebed, maar daar is meer as 2,000 verse wat na ons finansies verwys! Addisioneel tot die geestelike wette wat in plek gestel is toe God die heelal geskep het (sien hoofstuk 1), het God ook finansiële wette ingestel, wat Hy met ons in Sy Woord gedeel het. Dit is tot ons voordeel dat ons die wette navolg of anders ly ons onder die nagevolge as ons dit nie doen nie. Dit maak nie saak of ons nie kennis gedra het daarvan of gekies het om dit te verwerp nie; hierdie wette, soos swaartekrag, bestaan en daar kan nie oor gedebatteer word nie.

Principle #1: We reap what we sow.

Beginsel #1: Ons oes wat ons saai.

One of the most important principles of stewardship is sowing and reaping. To reap a harvest, we must sow seed first. There are many Scriptures that give us insight into of the subject of sowing and reaping. Here a just a few:

Een van die mees belangrikste beginsels van rentmeesterskap is saai en oes. Om ‘n oes in te samel moet ons eers saad saai. Daar is baie Bybel verse wat ons insig gee oor die onderwerp van saai en oes. Hier is net ‘n paar:

“Now this I say, he who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully” (2 Cor 9:6).

“Dink daaraan: wie karig saai, sal karig oes; en wie volop saai, sal volop oes” (2 Kor 9:6).

“Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting” (Ps. 126:5).

“Wie met trane saai, sal die oes met gejuig inbring” (Ps. 126:5).

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap” (Gal. 6:7).

“Moenie julleself mislei nie: God laat nie met Hom spot nie. Wat 'n mens saai, dit sal hy ook oes” (Gal. 6:7).

“For the one who sows to his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life” (Gal. 6:8).

“Wie op die akker van sy sondige natuur saai, sal van die sondige natuur dood en verderf oes. Maar wie op die akker van die Gees saai, sal van die Gees die ewige lewe oes” (Gal. 6:8).

“And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary” (Gal. 6:9).

“Laat ons dan nie moeg word om goed te doen nie, want as ons nie verslap nie, sal ons op die bestemde tyd ook die oes insamel” (Gal. 6:9).

When we sow with the understanding of this principle and with faith in the Lord and His Word, we should expect to reap a harvest in and where we have sown! This is really exciting!

Wanneer ons saai met die verstandhouding van hierdie beginsel en met geloof in die Here en Sy Woord, moet ons verwag om ‘n oes in te samel waar ons gesaai het. Dit is regtig opwindend!

No farmer would take the time or the money to sow seed if he did not expect to reap a harvest. In addition, if he wanted to reap a harvest of corn, he would sow corn. If he wanted to reap wheat, he would sow wheat.

Geen boer sal die tyd of geld gebruik om te saai as hy nie verwag om ‘n oes in te samel nie. Addisioneel, as hy ‘n oes van mielies wil insamel, sal hy mielies saai. As hy koring wil oes, sal hy koring saai.

Therefore, if you want to reap kindness, sow kindness. If you want to reap forgiveness, forgive! If you want to reap restoration in your marriage, then sow into restoration by ministering and/or sow financially—then anticipate a harvest, since God’s principles and His promises are true and He is faithful!!

Daarom, as jy vriendelikheid wil oes, saai vriendelikheid. As jy vergifnis wil oes, vergewe! As jy herstel in jou huwelik wil oes, saai dan in herstel deur te minister en/of finansieël te saai—verwag dan ‘n oes, aangesien God se beginsels en Sy beloftes waar is en Hy is getrou!!

We can also believe God’s promise that sowing into His work means we are investing in our eternal future. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:19–21). More importantly, what we do with money here on earth is a true indicator of where our hearts are.

Ons kan ook God se belofte glo dat deur in Sy werk te saai beteken ons belê in ons ewige toekoms. “Moenie vir julle skatte op aarde bymekaarmaak waar mot en roes dit verniel en waar diewe inbreek en dit steel nie. Maak vir julle skatte in die hemel bymekaar, waar mot en roes dit nie verniel nie en waar diewe nie inbreek en dit steel nie. Waar jou skat is, daar sal jou hart ook wees.” (Matt. 6:19-21). Meer belangrik, wat ons met ons geld hier op aarde doen is ‘n ware aanduiding waar ons harte lê.

“Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness; you will be enriched in everything for all liberality, which through us is producing thanksgiving to God” (2 Cor. 9:10–11).

“God wat saad verskaf om te saai en brood om te eet, sal ook aan julle saad gee en dit laat groei en julle vrygewigheid 'n ryk oes laat oplewer. Hy maak julle altyd in alles ryk genoeg om by elke geleentheid vrygewig te kan wees. Deur ons bemiddeling het julle vrygewigheid tot gevolg dat God gedank word” (2 Kor. 9:10-11).

In other words, when God gives us a bountiful harvest, it is not so we can keep it selfishly for ourselves but so we can sow even more into the kingdom of heaven.

Met ander woorde, wanneer God vir ons ‘n oorvloedige oes gee, is dit nie om selfsugtig te wees en dit vir onsself te hou nie maar sodat ons nog meer in die koninkryk van die hemel kan saai.

The very wealthy Christians of today are the channels that keep ministries going, send missionaries to foreign lands, and keep our churches flourishing so that they can reach the lost for the Lord. They do not use their finances for their own pleasures but have found that in sowing into the things of God they have true joy and contentment.

Die skatryk Christene van vandag is die kanale wat bedieninge aan die gang hou, wat sendelinge na vreemde lande toe stuur, en ons kerke laat floreer sodat hulle die verlorenes vir God kan gebruik. Hulle gebruik nie hulle finansies vir hulle eie gerief nie maar het gevind dat om deur in die dinge van God te saai hulle ware vreugde en tevredenheid het. 

However, we must also remember that poverty and prosperity are relative terms. What we call the “poverty level” in the United States would seem like affluence to those in many other countries.

Nietemin, moet ons ook onthou dat armoede en voorspoed relatiewe terme is. Wat ons die “armoede vlak” in die Verenigde State noem sou lyk soos welvaart vir die in baie ander lande.

As Christians, we must find contentment in any and every situation. The apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:12: “I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.”

As Christene, moet ons tevredenheid in enige en alle situasies vind. Die apostel Paulus herinner ons in Filippense 4:12:  Ek weet wat armoede is en ek weet wat oorvloed is; van alles het ek ondervinding: om genoeg te hê om te eet sowel as om honger te ly, om oorvloed te hê sowel as om gebrek te ly.”

Indeed, there are times when God calls His saints to suffering, martyrdom, or poverty (like the poor widow who gave two coins—all she owned) in order to glorify Himself. When He calls us to poverty or suffering, though, He gives us the grace to bear it with joy and thanksgiving—without grumbling or complaining.

Inderdaad, daar is tye wanneer God Sy heiliges roep om te ly, marteling, of armoede (soos die arme weduwee wat twee muntstukke gegee het—alles wat sy besit het) sodat Hy Homself kon verheerlik. Wanneer Hy ons roep om aan armoede of lyding te deel, gee Hy ons die genade om dit met vreugde en danksegging te verdra—sonder om te murmureer of te kla.

While we can’t understand all of God’s reasons for allowing poverty, we can trust that His ways are higher than our ways. “Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability” (2 Cor. 2:8). Sometimes those who suffer the greatest need become the most generous! And for someone with a love of money, a loss of riches may be one of the ways God breaks us, draws us to Himself, and teaches us to rely solely on Him.

Terwyl ons nie al God se redes kan verstaan om armoede toe te laat nie, kan ons op Sy wee wat hoër as ons sin is vertrou. “Al was hulle swaar beproef deur verdrukking, hulle blydskap was oorvloedig; en al was hulle baie arm, hulle was ryk in hulle oorvloedige vrygewigheid” (2 Kor. 2:8). Somtyds die wat die grootste behoefte ly word die mees vrygewig! En vir iemand met ‘n liefde vir geld, kan ‘n verlies van rykdom een van die maniere wees hoe God ons breek, nader aan Homself trek, en ons leer om algeheel op Hom te vertrou.

However, in our country, poverty and debt do not usually draw the interest or attention of your family, friends, and neighbors. If we have been blessed with much, we must witness to others not by self-righteously preaching to them or condemning their lifestyle but by allowing them to “read” God in our lives! “You are our letter, written in our hearts, known and read by all men . . .” (2 Cor. 3:2). We must exhibit the fruits of who our Father is. We must be at peace in the midst of troubles, bless our enemies, freely forgive, and walk in whatever prosperity the Lord allows. Our generosity should glorify Him and may be the very kindness that God uses to draw others to Himself!

Alhoewel, in ons land, trek armoede en skuld nie gewoonlik die belange of aandag van jou familie, vriende en bure nie. As ons met baie geseën is moet ons aan ander getuig en nie deur eiegeregtige preek aan hulle of om hulle leefstyl te oordeel nie maar om hulle toe te laat om God in ons lewens te “lees”! “Julle is ons brief, geskrywe in ons harte, geken en gelees deur alle mense . . .(2 Kor. 3:2). Ons moet die vrugte van wie ons Vader is demonstreer. Ons moet vrede hê ten spyte van probleme, ons vyande seën, vrylik vergewe, en loop in wat ook al voorspoed die Here toelaat. Ons vrygewigheid moet Hom verheerlik en mag die einste vriendelikheid wees wat God gebruik om ander na Homself te trek!

“. . . And let them say continually, ‘The Lord be magnified, who delights in the prosperity of His servant” (Ps. 35:27).

“. . . laat hulle altyd weer sê: “Die Here is groot. Hy sorg dat sy dienaar vrede het.” (Ps. 35:27).

 

Principle #2: God owns everything.

Beginsel #2: God besit alles.

Psalm 24:1 (NIV) says simply, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it . . .” Everything we have belongs to God.

Psalms 24:1 (Afr 83) sê eenvoudig, “Die aarde en alles wat daarop is, die wêreld en dié wat daar woon. . .  alles behoort aan die Here.

“Yours,  O  Lord,  is  the  greatness  and  the  power  and  the  glory  and  the  majesty  and  the  splendor,  for everything in heaven and earth is Yours” (1 Chron. 29:11).

“Die grootheid, Here, die krag, die glans, die roem en die majesteit behoort aan U, ja, alles in die hemel en op aarde. “  (1 Kron. 29:11).

“‘The silver is Mine and the gold is Mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty” (Hag. 2:8).

“‘Aan My behoort al die silwer, aan My al die goud, sê die Here die Almagtige” (Hag. 2:8).

All we have, whether much or little, is on loan to us—we are stewards. Again, it is how we handle what has been entrusted to us (as explained in the Luke 16 parable) that will determine whether He blesses us with more or if He takes away what we already have.

Alles wat ons het, of dit baie of min is, is aan ons geleen—ons is rentmeesters. Weer, dit is hoe ons dit wat aan ons toevertrou is (soos verduidelik in die Lukas 16 gelykenis) wat sal vasstel of Hy ons seën met meer en of Hy wegneem wat ons alreeds het.

 

Principle #3: God provides everything.

Beginsel #3: God voorsien alles.

“Otherwise, you may say in your heart, ‘My power and the strength of my hand made me this wealth.’ But you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who is giving you power to make wealth, that He may confirm His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day. It shall come about if you ever forget the Lord your God and go after other gods and serve them and worship them, I testify against you today that you will surely perish” (Deut. 8:17–19).

“Jy kan dalk dink: my krag en my sterk hande het vir my hierdie rykdom verwerf.  Maar jy moet die Here jou God nie vergeet nie, want dit is Hy wat jou die krag gee om die rykdom te verwerf. So hou Hy die verbond in stand wat Hy met 'n eed aan jou voorvaders beloof het. So is dit nou nog. “As jy ooit die Here jou God vergeet en ander gode aanhang en hulle dien en vereer, verklaar ek vandag dat jy beslis tot niet sal gaan” (Deut. 8:17-19).

 “But who am I and who are my people that we should be able to offer as generously as this? For all things come from You, and from Your hand we have given You. For we are sojourners before You, and tenants, as all our fathers were; our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no hope. O Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided to build You a house for Your holy name, it is from Your hand, and all is Yours” (1 Chron. 29:14–16).

“want wie is ek en wie is my volk dat ons die vermoë sou hê om sulke gawes te bring? Alles kom tog van U af en ons gee aan U wat ons van U gekry het. Net soos al ons voorvaders is ons by U sonder reg of aanspraak. Ons tyd op aarde is soos 'n skaduwee, dit gaan verby. Here ons God, al hierdie goed wat ons bymekaargemaak het om 'n huis vir u heilige Naam te bou, het ons van U gekry en dit behoort aan U” (1 Kron. 29:14-16).

“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19).

“En my God sal in elke behoefte van julle ryklik voorsien volgens sy wonderbaarlike rykdom in Christus Jesus” (Fil. 4:19).

Whether you earned it in your job or it was given to you, who was the Source of everything that you have?

Of jy dit by jou werk verdien het en of dit aan jou gegee was, wie was die bron van alles wat jy het?

God.

God.

 

Principle #4: God wants the first portion of what He gives you.

Beginsel #4: God wil die eerste deel hê van wat Hy jou gee.

Many Christians give to their church and other charitable organizations but are not blessed because they don’t understand this very important principle. God is clear throughout the entire Bible that He wants to be first in every area of your life.

Baie Christene gee aan hulle kerk en ander liefdadigheidsorganisasies maar is nie geseën nie omdat hulle nie hierdie baie belangrike beginsel verstaan nie. God is duidelik dwarsdeur die hele Bybel dat Hy eerste in elke area van jou lewe wil wees.

If you pay your bills before returning the first back to Him, God is not first in your life and you will have missed the blessing. We learned in chapter 5, “First Love,” that God removes from us what we have put ahead of Him.

As jy jou rekeninge betaal voordat jy eers vir Hom teruggee, is God nie eerste in jou lewe nie en dan sou jy die seën gemis het. Ons het in hoofstuk 5 “ Eerste Liefde,” geleer dat God van ons verwyder wat ons voor Hom gesit het.

“Honor the Lord from your wealth, and from the first of all your produce; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine” (Prov. 3:9). The principle is clear; we must give to God first.

“Vereer die Here met offerandes uit al wat jy besit en met die beste uit jou oes, dan sal jou skure oorvol wees en jou parskuipe oorloop van die wyn” (Spr. 3:9). Die beginsel is duidelik; ons moet eerste vir God gee.

Often when Christians begin to consider tithing, they cannot see how they can possibly tithe since they are barely making ends meet. This is because they are also ignorant to what has been happening in their finances. Haggai 1:9 says that God “blows away” what you bring home and He also allows the devourer come and take what was rightfully His.

Dikwels wanneer Christene begin om te oorweeg om tiendes te gee, kan hulle nie sien hoe hulle moontlik tiendes kan gee aangesien hulle skaars uitkom. Dit is waarom hulle ook onkundig is met wat besig is om in hulle finansies te gebeur. Haggai 1:9 sê dat God dit wat jy huis toe bring “laat verdwyn” en Hy laat ook toe dat die sprinkane kom om te neem wat regmatig Syne is.   

“‘Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,’ says the Lord of hosts, ‘if I will not open for you the windows of heaven, and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows. Then I will rebuke the devourer for you, so that it may not destroy the fruits of the ground; nor will your vine in the field cast its grapes,’ says the Lord of hosts” (Mal. 3:10–11).

“‘Bring die volle tiende na die voorraadkamer toe sodat daar iets te ete in my huis kan wees, en toets My hierin, sê die Here die Almagtige. Toets My of Ek nie die vensters van die hemel vir julle sal oopmaak en vir julle reën sal uitgiet, meer as wat julle kan gebruik nie” Ek sal die sprinkane keer dat hulle nie die oes op julle land vernietig nie, en dat julle wingerde nie sonder vrugte is nie, sê die Here die Almagtige” (Mal. 3:10-11).

Every month non-tithing Christians are met with “unexpected” expenses, things like repairs or other needs they did not foresee. But it is only because they are ignorant of this principle. For if God is first in your life— first in your heart, first in your day, and first in your finances—then (and only then) will God “open for you the windows of heaven, pour out for you a blessing until it overflows,” and faithfully “rebuke the devourer for you.”

Elke maand kom Christene wat nie tiendes gee hulle met “onvoorsiene” uitgawes tee, dinge soos herstel of ander behoeftes waarvoor hulle nie voorsien het nie. Maar dit is net omdat hulle onkundig is van hierdie beginsel. Want as God eerste in jou lewe is—eerste in jou hart, eerste in jou dag, en eerste in jou finansies—dan (en alleenlik dan) sal God “die venters van die hemel oopmaak en reën uitgiet, meer as wat ons kan gebruik,” en getrou die sprinkane vir jou keer.”

Those who humble themselves by giving God their tithe and offerings will delight themselves in abundant prosperity! “But the humble will inherit the land, and will delight themselves in abundant prosperity” (Ps. 37:11). His Word tells us, “Adversity pursues sinners, but the righteous will be rewarded with prosperity” (Prov. 13:21).

Hulle wat hulleself ootmoedig deur vir God hulle tiendes en offerandes te gee sal hulle verlustig in hulle oorvloedige welvaart! “Die ootmoediges daarenteen sal die aarde besit en hulle verlustig oor grootvrede” (Ps. 37:11). Sy Woord vertel ons, “Teenspoed volg die sondaars op hulle pad; die regverdige word met voorspoed vergoed” (Spr. 13:21).

 

Principle #5: What you do with the first portion determines what God does with the rest.

Beginsel #5: Wat jy met die eerste deel doen bepaal wat God met die res doen.

When God asked Abraham for His son, he did not withhold him; as a result, God tells him, “for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me. . . . because you have done this thing and have not withheld your son, your only son, indeed I will greatly bless you . . .” (Gen. 22:12, 17).

Toe God vir Abraham vir Sy seun gevra het, het hy hom nie teruggehou nie; die resultaat, God sê vir hom. “Nou weet Ek dat jy My dien: jy het nie geweier om jou seun, jou enigste seun, aan My te offer nie . . . . dat Ek jou baie sal seën oor wat jy gedoen het: jy het nie geweier om jou seun, jou enigste seun, aan My te offer nie …” (Gen. 22:12,17).

God told the army who took Jericho that they were not to take the spoil of the first city, then God would give them the rest. God always wants to see if we put Him first to test our hearts. “The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests hearts” (Prov. 17:3). However, one of the soldiers, Akin, could not resist and took some of the spoil. When they were to take the next city, Ai, in a battle that was much smaller and should have easily been won, they were defeated. (See Joshua 6.)

God het vir die weermag wat Jerigo ingeneem het gesê dat hulle nie die buit van die eerste stad moet neem nie, dan sal God die res aan hulle gee. God wil sien of ons Hom eerste plaas om ons harte te toets. “Silwer word in 'n smeltkroes gelouter en goud in 'n oond, maar dit is die Here wat die gesindheid toets” (Spr. 17:3). Maar, een van die soldate, Akin, kon dit nie weerstaan nie en het van die buit geneem. Toe hulle die volgende stad, Ai, moes inneem in ‘n stryd wat baie kleiner was en maklik oorwin moes word, was hulle verslaan. (Sien Joshua 6.)

This principle is not just in your finances, or in your restoration, but in every area of your life. When we fail to give to God first, then we are robbing God of what He has asked for. He wants no other gods before Him: not our money, our spouses, our marriages, or our careers. What you do with the first of everything will determine what God will do with the rest—bless it or curse it.

Die beginsel is nie net in jou finansies nie, of vir jou herstel nie, maar vir elke area van jou lewe. As jy faal om vir God eerste te gee, dan beroof ons God waarvoor Hy gevra het. Hy wil geen ander gode voor Hom hê nie: nie ons geld, ons gades, ons huwelike, ons beroepe. Wat jy doen met die eerste van alles sal bepaal wat God met die res doen—seën of vervloek.

Are you in a financial crisis?
Is jy in ‘n finansiële krisis?

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33).

“Nee, beywer julle allereers vir die koninkryk van God en vir die wil van God, dan sal Hy julle ook al hierdie dinge gee” (Matt. 6:33).

Have you sought the Lord about your finances? In Philippians 4:19, the Bible clearly teaches that the Lord is the One who will supply all our needs. However, if we go to others with our needs rather than seeking the Lord—if we fail to “seek Him first”—then “all these things” will not be “added unto” us.

Het jy die Here gesoek oor jou finansies? In Filippense 4:19, leer die Bybel ons duidelik dat dit God is wat in al ons behoeftes voorsien. Hoewel, as ons na ander toe gaan met ons behoeftes eerder as om ons vir die wil van God te beywer—as ons faal om ‘Hom allereers te beywer”—dan sal “al hierdie dinge” nie vir ons “gegee” word nie. 

Are you following the principles for financial security in the Lord? The Scriptures teach us that we are to tithe in order to be “filled with plenty” and “overflow” (Prov. 3:9–10). We are also encouraged to “sow” if we want to reap (Gal. 6:7, 2 Cor. 9:6). Have you been sowing and faithfully tithing? Take the time to read these passages of Scripture again and again, then pray for how the Lord wants to change the way that you are trusting Him while fulfilling His command to all believers, beginning by giving a portion back to Him.

Volg jy die beginsels vir finansiële sekuriteit in die Here? Die Bybel leer ons dat ons tiendes moet gee om “met baie gevul te word” en te “oorvloei” (Spr. 3:9-10). Ons word ook aangemoedig om te “saai” as ons wil oes (Gal. 6:;7, 2 Kor. 9:6). Saai en gee jy getrou jou tiende? Neem die tyd en lees weer hierdie verse in die Bybel oor en oor, bid oor hoe die Here die manier waarin jy op Hom vertrou wil verander terwyl Hy Sy opdrag aan all gelowiges vervul, deur te begin om ‘n gedeelte aan Hom terug te gee. 

If you are tithing faithfully and still in a financial crisis, make sure that you are following all of God’s statutes. There are many references in Scripture to actions that lead to poverty, including not asking (James 4:2), asking with wrong motive (James 4:3), adultery (Prov. 6:26), heavy drinking or gluttonous behavior (Prov. 21:17, Prov. 23:21), laziness (Prov. 10:4, Prov. 14:23, Prov. 28:18–20), not accepting rebuke or correction (Prov. 13:18), making hasty decisions (Prov. 21:5), oppressing the poor (Prov. 22:16), living treacherously with your wife (Mal. 2:14–16) or failing to honor her (1 Pet. 3:7) and, of course, withholding from God what is rightfully His.

As jy getrou jou tiendes gee en steeds in ‘n finansiële krisis verkeer, maak seker dat jy al God se wette volg. Daar is baie verwysings in die Bybel oor aksies wat tot armoede lei, insluitend om nie te vra nie. (Jak. 4:2), om te vra met die verkeerde  motiewe (Jak. 4:3), owerspel (Spr. 6:26), drankmisbruik of gierigheid (Spr. 21:17, Spr. 23:21), luiheid (Spr. 10:4, Spr. 14:23, Spr. 28:18-20), om nie vermaning of korreksie te aanvaar nie. (Spr. 13:18), oorhaastige besluite te maak (Spr. 21:5)), die armoedige te onderdruk (Spr. 22:16), en, natuurlik, terug te hou wat  regmatig aan God behoort.

While we are giving back to God in tithes and offerings, we also need to be sure we are giving our wives the honor they deserve. “You husbands likewise, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with a weaker vessel, since she is a woman; and grant her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered” (1 Pet. 3:7). Has your wife been the one who has tried to live within your means but you were irresponsible with your spending? Have you shamed your wife to others or joked about her spending? Be sure you are pure in heart and faithful to your wife in every way.

Terwyl ons aan God teruggee deur tiendes of offerandes, moet ons seker wees dat ons ook die eer aan ons vrouens gee wat hulle verdien. “Mans, julle moet verstandig met julle vrouens saamleef. Bewys eer aan hulle as die swakker geslag wat saam met julle deel in die lewe as genadegawe. Dan sal julle kan bid sonder dat iets julle hinder” (1 Pet. 3:7). Was jou vrou die een wat binne jou vermoë geleef het maar jy was onverantwoordelik met jou spandering? Het jy jou vrou skaam laat voel of grappies gemaak oor haar spandering? Wees seker dat jy rein van hart en getrou is aan jou vrou op elke manier.

When Erin was in financial ruin as a single mother of four young children, she learned the principle of tithing. Even though she lived close to poverty level, she began tithing for the first time in her life (being raised as a Catholic she had never even heard of the principle). Not only did she sow by tithing ten percent of the meager amount of the money she received, but she also sowed into the lives of women who were experiencing tragedy in their lives (telling them about God’s ability to restore their marriages).

Toe Erin in finansiële ondergang was en ‘n enkelouer van vier jong kinders, het sy die beginsel van tiendes geleer. Al het sy naby aan armoede gelewe, het sy vir die eerste keer in haar lewe tiendes begin gee (deur Katoliek grootgemaak te word het sy nooit eens van die beginsel gehoor nie). Nie alleenlik het sy gesaai deur tien persent uit die karige bedraggie wat sy ontvang het nie, maar sy het ook in die lewens van vrouens wat besig was om tragedie in hulle lewens te ervaar gesaai (deur hulle te vertel van God se vermoë om hulle huwelike te herstel).  

Erin’s obedient heart that learned to tithe to the Lord set the standard in our home when I was gone. God honored her by leading me to tithe soon after I came home without her even telling me!

Erin se gehoorsame hart wat geleer het om tiendes aan die Here te gee het die standaard in ons huis gestel toe ek weg was. God het haar geeer deur my te lei om tiendes te gee gou na ek huis toe gekom het sonder om my eens te vertel!

Men, if you are still struggling with giving, it may help you to know that God owns everything we have, and it is only because of Him that we have been given the “power to make wealth, that He may confirm His covenant” with us. (Deut. 8:18). Therefore you need to make sure that you give to Him first to confirm that He is first in your life!

Mans, as jy nog steeds sukkel om te gee, mag dit dalk help om te weet dat God alles besit wat ons het, en dit is net oor Hom dat ons die “krag gegee is  om die rykdom te verwerf. So hou Hy die verbond in stand” met ons. (Deut. 8:18). Daarom moet jy seker maak dat jy eerste vir Hom gee en dat Hy eerste is in jou lewe!

Will you serve God or mammon (money)?
Sal jy God of mammon (geld) dien?

Too many shy away from teaching on giving because of the abuses and because they don’t want to be considered “money seekers,” but it doesn’t eliminate the truth in the message. Search for the truth yourself. Test Him to see if He is faithful to His promise. Give to God first, tithe to your storehouse (where you are spiritually fed), and see if your life changes and you are blessed in all areas of your life.

Te veel skram weg van die lering om te gee as gevolg van die mishandeling en hulle wil nie as  “geldsoekers” oorweeg word nie, maar dit elimineer nie die waarheid van die boodskap nie. Soek self vir die waarheid. Toets Hom om te sien of Hy getrou is aan Sy belofte. Gee eerste aan God, bring jou tiende na jou voorraadkamer (waar jy geestelik gevoed word), en kyk of jou lewe verander en jy in alle areas van jou lewe  geseën is.

God is the one who provides for our ministry and for our family. We sow into the lives of those who are brokenhearted and water with ongoing support through our fellowship, but it is God who brings the increase. We look to no one to supply our needs but God alone.

God is die een wat vir ons bediening en ons familie voorsien. Ons saai in die lewens van hulle wie se harte gebroke is en water met aanhoudende ondersteuning deur ons bediening, maar dit is God wat die vermeerdering bring. Ons kyk na niemand om in ons behoeftes te voorsien nie maar God alleen. 

Failing to properly teach such an important principle would be to neglect to feed the sheep and shepherd those who are coming to us for help, support, and direction.

Om nie hierdie beginsel behoorlik te onderrig nie, sal wees om te verwaarloos om die skape te voed en te herder die wat na ons toe kom vir hulp, ondersteuning, en rigting.

Jesus said to feed His sheep, and God said in Hosea that His people perished for a lack of knowledge (Hos. 4:6). Many who come to us are new Christians or have been attending a church where this principle, and other principles of restoration, are not taught. Our job is to make disciples of the Lord, to give them the tools they need to transform their lives.

Jesus het gesê ons moet Sy skape voed, en God het in Hosea gesê dat Sy volk te gronde gaan weens ‘n gebrek aan kennis” (Hos. 4:6). Baie wat na ons toe kom is nuwe Christene of het ‘n kerk bygewoon waar hierdie beginsel, en ander beginsels van herstel, nie geleer word nie. Ons werk is om dissipels vir God te maak, om vir hulle die gereedskap te gee wat hulle nodig het om hulle lewens te transformeer.

For those of you who have never given God His tithe, may God prove to you that you can do more with 90% of your income than the 100% than you used to control. It will take a step of faith, but, just like when you chose to restore your marriage rather than moving on, your life will never be the same.

Vir die van julle wie nooit vir God Sy tiende gegee het nie, mag God aan jou bewys dat jy meer kan doen met 90% van jou inkomste as die 100% wat jy beheer het. Ek sal ‘n tree in geloof neem, maar, net soos toe jy gekies het om jou huwelik te herstel eerder as om aan te beweeg, sal jou lewe nooit weer dieselfde wees nie.

For those of you who do give (but God is not first), may you rearrange your priorities in every area of your life to show God that He has first place.

Vir die van julle wat wel gee (maar God is nie eerste nie), mag jou prioriteite in elke area van jou lewe herrangskik word om vir God te wys dat Hy eerste plek het.

God is a God who longs to be gracious to us; He longs to bless us! “. . . And let them say continually, “the Lord be magnified, who delights in the prosperity of His servant” (Ps. 35:27).

God is ‘n God wat hunker om genade teenor ons te betoon; Hy hunker om ons te seën!”. . . “Die Here is groot. Hy sorg dat sy dienaar vrede het.” (Ps. 35:27).

Let me close with this wonderful promise: “Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting” (Ps. 126:5). Hallelujah!!

Laat ek afsluit met hierdie wonderlike belofte: “Die wat met trane saai, sal met gejubel maai” (Ps. 126:5). Hallelujah!!  

Personal commitment: to give. “Based on what I have learned in Scripture, I commit to trusting and blessing the Lord with my finances. I will seek the Lord regarding how and where to tithe. I will sow into restoring marriages through sharing the good news about restoration with those whom God brings into my life and through my giving financially as God leads and faithfully provides for me.”

Persoonlike toewyding: om te gee. “Gebaseer op wat ek in die Woord geleer het, wy ek my daaraan toe om op die Here te vertrou en te seën met my finansies. Ek sal die Here nastreef aangaande hoe en waar ek my tiende moet gee. Ek sal in die herstelling van huwelike saai deur die goeie nuus van herstel te deel met die wat God in my lewe bring en deur my finansiële bydraes soos wat God my getrou lei en vir my voorsien.”