THE MINISTRY OF MONEY

by Rev. John W. Adams

AT THE OUTSET let me say that this is not intended as a treatise on the sub­ject of money in all its aspects. As there is a ministry of prayer, a ministry of preaching, a pastoral ministry, a teaching ministry---so, there is a ministry of money.

The first tenth of all storehouse income belongs peculiarly to God (Malachi 3:10; Matthew 2:23). As to just what the "storehouse" is today I leave that to ,in individual's own understanding. As a denominational ministry for years I preached that the storehouse was the local church organization of "my" denomination. Now I view the storehouse in a larger perspective. God does not confine himself to any one man-made group of people. His kingdom rules over all (Psalms 103:19).

It has been my observation that when a person ignores the tenth as a starting point, he seldom exceeds this amount in his overall giving to the "kingdom of God on earth." But if the tithe (tenth) is conscientiously paid, then the liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself (Proverbs 11:25). If a person honors the Lord with his substance and with the first fruits of all his income; so shall his barns be filled with plenty, and his presses shall burst out with new wine (Proverbs 3:9,10), Jesus said, Give, and it shall be given unto you; good meas­ure pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. (Luke 6:38). Solomon put it this way, "There is that scattereth, and net increaseth; and there is that withholdest more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty (Proverbs 11:24).

In spite of all the talk and high soundings of preachment about "belittling the flesh," it still remains true that, so far, we have never known any other form of existence than in these mortal bodies of ours. Therefore, until we experience our change (job 14:14), we are exhorted to glorify God in our body (I Corinthians 6:20). 1 take this to mean that we are to give our bodies the prop,-r care that the temple of God is entitled to (I Corinthians 3:16).

The amount of money necessary to be spent to keep our bodies fit and healthy should never be begrudged. Some misguided souls starve themselves on crackers and milk for years on end, and then, dying, leave multiplied thousands of dollars for unappreciative inheritors to squabble over. Some professing Christians go in cast off clothing and broken down shoes just so they can bank every possible dime. I do not believe this is glorifying their Maker.

I believe a person should provide a suitable home, consistent with his means. This is not to say that extravagance is called for. And neither does it imply any necessity for keeping up with the Joneses. Covetousness is a sin to be avoided as the plague. Paul said that it is the love of money that is the root of all evil-not money, itself. He said, in substance, that we came into this world empty and will depart it the same way. Therefore, having food and raiment let us be therewith content (I Timothy 6:7, 8, 10).

An old proverb says, "Money is a good servant, but a bad master." I con­cur in this sentiment one hundred per cent. We pass through this life but once. If there is some present good that has a justifiable claim on a portion of our money now, I do not view it as in our best interests to ignore the man who fell among thieves, and, like the priestly Levite, pass by on the other side (Luke 10:30-37). It would be much more Christian to do as the Good Samaritan did. I think it is the clear teach­ing of the Bible that we should adjust our lives to the "eternal present." Live to do right, and trust God for all the tomorrow (Matthew 6:~4).

Money---it can lead us to heaven or hell. It can prove a blessing or curse. It all depends upon our attitude toward it and our use of it. As I see it this is the wise course to take relative to the filthy lucre (I Timothy 3:3). Earn all you need within reason, according to the ability God has given you. Always honor God with the first tenth, and as much more as Fie enables you to. Take proper care of your physical body and your own family (I Timothy 5:8). Maintain the kind of a home you need, commen­surate with your financial ability. Spend what you are able to for the improve­ment of your mind. Get acquainted with good books, magazines and other uplift­ing literature and don't neglect inspiring music. Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19).

If there is a surplus, save what you reasonably can for that proverbial rainy day. Thank God for ability and opportunity to earn a living; remembering that it is he who gives thee power to get wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18).