Daily Devotions
Hebrews
"To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all..."
Text: Hebrews 7:2
THE ORIGINAL CONCEPT OF A TITHE
The word “tithe” is widely practised. The first historical reference to giving a tithe to God may be found here.
“To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all…”
Hebrews 7:2a
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE TITHE
There is deep significance to be found in the above text! Let us ponder the following thoughts:-
1. The tithe is to be seen in the context of worship.
a) Melchizedek led Abram in worship.
b) There was a celebratory aspect too (“bread and wine” in Genesis 14:18 represented the elements that were partaken of).
2. The tithe is an appropriate response to God.
a) Melchizedek pronounced a blessing from God upon Abram (Cf. Genesis 14:19).
b) He also reminded Abram that it was God who had given him the victory (Cf. Genesis 14:20).
c) Abram responded appropriately:-
i) He only had a fighting force of 318 trained servants (Cf. Genesis 14:14).
ii) He was already an octogenarian when he involved himself in this bid to rescue Lot (Genesis 12:4 tells us that he was 75 when he responded to God’s call to go to the Land of Promise; A few years must have lapsed between his calling and this rescue attempt). Abram could not but agree that his victory could not have taken place without God giving him the victory.
iii) His response was to give “a tenth part of all” (the spoils of war).
iv) He would not enrich himself through the spoils of war, but he did give to God his portion of the spoils of war.
d) A great example
Abram’s giving of the tithe is truly inspiring and exemplary! This gift was not mandated by law. It emerged from a heart that was truly grateful to the Lord.