by Mike James

Worship is defined as reverence and adoration of God. This can be done in numerous ways. When we attend Sabbath and holy-day services we are expressing reverence for God. Studying His words and praying to Him can be included in worship. Singing hymns to God and helping other brethren are also forms of worship for God. But let's not forget the idea of giving (tithes and offerings) as a form of worship too.

By providing tithes and offerings we can assist our fellow brethren who are in need of physical sustenance (food, clothing, and shelter). Local church groups and our national church headquarters do assist needy brethren from time to time. Without any support from our brethren, our needy brothers and sisters would have a more difficult time.

Another factor we sometimes forget about in our giving is the actual gospel (good news) message that the Church brings to the world. The most important thing I have learned in this life is the true message of God. How we can obtain salvation through Jesus Christ and the reality of His coming Kingdom to this world. At my lowest points in life this knowledge has sustained me and strengthened me to overcome whatever negative feelings I may have experienced. Without this knowledge, life would not be as meaningful and purposeful as it is for me now. Without funds that provided media promulgating that message, I may never have heard that message.

So many people are not aware of this life-saving knowledge. Many who suffer from depression and anxiety may be encouraged if they were made aware of God's true message of eternal life and Kingdom knowledge.

As we come to the end of our fall holy day season, let us continue to give generously if we are able. A great example from Scripture is found in 2 Corinthians 8:1-5. Here we read those believers in Macedonia—despite grave trials—who were very generous to the needs of other brethren despite their poverty. Paul explains that they did this on their own. No demands or requests were made to them. They had an overwhelming joy in knowing the truth of God, which provided them with the impetus to share what they had with others in the Church.

Another example Paul provides on giving comes from Romans 12:1-8. Here, Paul addresses different gifts that believers have. Some of the more well-known gifts he mentions are prophecy, ministry, exhortation, teaching, and leadership. However, one of the gifts he mentions here is not often addressed as a gift. In verse 8, we read that "giving" is also a gift.

Many don't think about giving as being a gift that some have. Just like other gifts, I can easily see how giving is a gift. Like other gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 28), everyone does not have the same measure of ability in each gift.

When I think of giving, it is very clear that not all people have the same capability in this regard. Those who are lucky enough and capable enough to be paid more for their vocation have a greater opportunity to utilize this gift. But we need to remember that just having the means is not the gift. The right attitude and intentionality makes giving a gift. Someone who gives begrudgingly is not necessarily gifted to be a giver. Capability and intention are needed for someone to be gifted in this regard. Even those who are not as capable as others could be considered gifted in giving because of their intention.

Getting back to our definition of worship—giving toward getting God's message into the world and supplying physical human needs—is as much at the heart of Christianity as anything else we can do as Christians. In fact, it is probably more than any of the other items we think as our gifts from God.

Feeding people, clothing them, and putting a roof over their heads is at the root of what real love is all about. Providing the true gospel message to the world is the only real hope for humanity because that message can lead to someone making their commitment to Christ. Helping to provide the means to do this is, no doubt, worshipping the true God.

So, as we exit the holy-day season, keep in mind that offerings in the Old Testament could be offered throughout the year and not just in the three holy-day seasons of the year. For those who do have means and the capabilities for this type of gift, keep in mind how those offerings truly make a difference.

To all those who provide tithes and offerings to this work—THANK YOU!