Economic Reform Read Deuteronomy 14:22-29 “At the end of every third year, bring the entire tithe of that year’s harvest and store it in the nearest town. Give it to the Levites, who will receive no allotment of land among you, as well as to the foreigners living among you, the orphans, and the widows in your towns, so they can eat and be satisfied. Then the Lord your God will bless you in all your work.” (Deuteronomy 14:28-29) Reflect Moses set up an organized system of caring for those in need. God told his people to use their tithe every third year for the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows. These people were the helpless, the hungry, and the poor of their day. They all relied on their fellow Israelites to provide for their needs. These regulations were designed for the good of the whole nation too. They prevented the country from weakening due to widespread poverty and oppression. It was everyone’s responsibility to care for those less fortunate. Families were to help other family members, and towns were to help members of their community. The nationwide laws protected the poor, but they also benefited the whole country. If God cared enough to put a system in place to provide for the needs of the poor, shouldn’t we be equally concerned with it? God’s example encourages believers to provide for the needy. Respond We should use what God has given us to aid those who have fallen on hard times. Consider setting aside part of your regular giving to help the needy. If you don’t know anyone in need, look for an organization whose work you can support.
Posted on: Fri, 28 Jun 2013 08:18:10 +0000