Beginning of the End

Why the Tithe Is Sacred

Whenever we experience a special deliverance, or new and unexpected favors are granted us, we should acknowledge God’s goodness by gifts or offerings to His cause. As we are continually receiving the blessings of God, so we are to be continually giving. BOE 86.1

“Of all that You give me,” said Jacob, “I will surely give a tenth to You.” Shall we who enjoy the full light of the gospel be content to give less to God than was given by those who lived before Jesus came? Aren’t our obligations even greater? But how useless to measure time, money, and love mathematically against a love so immeasurable and a gift of such incredible worth. Tithes for Christ! Oh, meager pittance, shameful response to that which cost so much! From the cross of Calvary Christ calls for total consecration of all that we have, all that we are. BOE 86.2

With new faith and assured of the presence of heavenly angels, Jacob continued his journey to “the land of the people of the East.” But how different was his arrival from that of Abraham’s messenger nearly a hundred years before! Eliezer, the servant, had come with attendants riding on camels, with rich gifts of gold and silver; the son was a lonely, foot-sore traveler, with no possessions except his staff. Like Abraham’s servant, Jacob stopped beside a well, and it was here that he met Rachel, Laban’s younger daughter. On making known his family relationship, he was welcomed to the home of Laban. A few weeks showed the worth of his diligence and skill, and he was urged to stay. It was arranged that he would give Laban seven years’ service to be able to marry Rachel. BOE 86.3