[[-SOAP HUB]] | [[-Exodus Overview]] | [[Exodus 30]] ## Title: The Various Blessings of Giving ## Scripture: (Exodus 30:16) “You are to receive the atonement money from the Israelites and give it for the service of the tent of meeting. It will be a memorial for the Israelites before the Lord, to make atonement for your lives.”” (NET) ## Observation: In today’s passage, the LORD instructs the people to give to the tabernacle. In doing so, there are many different benefits that are produced. First, the Bible says those who work in the tabernacle are to “receive” the money. This means those who give must not be forced to do this. They must bring it to the LORD. God is cultivating a generous heart that places obedience to God over finances. The second benefit is that it will be used for the “care of the Tabernacle.” This removes the idea that worshiping God is a spectator or consumeristic event. They have a role to play in the worship of God and the care of the things of God. The next benefit is that it will “bring the Israelites to the Lord’s attention.” God always sees us and is mindful of us. The benefit here is that the nation of Israel is reminded of this fact. The final benefit is that it will “purify your lives.” There is almost nothing that fights for the throne of our heart quite like our money. This is because we try to get from money what only God can provide. Therefore, when we submit these desires to the Lord, it purifies our hearts like nothing else can. ## Application: Do you struggle to give to the work of God by giving to the local church community you attend? Why? Do you see how God is doing multiple things when we give? How will you take a step in this situation? ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for working on every area of our heart and life.