Robbing God

The Israelites are confused by the distance their sin has created between themselves and God. Their disregard for the sacrificial system God has put in place demonstrates their allegiance to themselves. We too must consider how we rob God by functioning as owners rather than managers of our resources.

Application

1. Consider the principle that sin creates distance between us and God. What sin are you currently struggling with? How can you move towards confession and repentance?

2. Giving is an act of worship, an investment in future reward, and a guard against material addiction. Which of these truths do you most need to lay hold of? What steps do you need to take to grow in the area of giving?

3. Most don’t give generously because they are not equipped or they are worldly. What would it look like instead for you to have a vision around your money that honors God?

Key Points

• The Israelites are confident in their disobedience and confused by the chaos it is causing. We are also often blinded by our pride and self-reliance.

• God’s greatest competitor in the world is us. We naturally have confidence in our ability to acquire possessions and create stability.

• God doesn’t need our sacrifices. They are a symbol of how we relate to him—what we do or don’t do shows how we view God.

• Giving is an act of honoring God, showing trust in him, and participating in his Kingdom. Withholding our resources is a form of robbing God.

Other Scripture References

Deuteronomy 28:1–2

James 1

Hebrews 8

Romans 10

Matthew 6:19–26