Brief summary
Elder Giuffra teaches that paying tithes and offerings is an expression of faith, love and trust in Heavenly Father.
His central message is that paying tithes and offerings helps us develop a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
Key quotes and questions to ponder and discuss
‘Commandments are given to draw us closer to the Savior, to protect us, and to help us remain free from sin and many of the challenges the world presents.’ (Paragraph 12)
How does the law of tithing draw us closer to the Saviour?
What does the experience of the elderly woman in Chile teach us about trusting Heavenly Father when obedience seems difficult? (Paragraphs 2-10)
‘Throughout my life, I have learned to trust in the Lord, and I have seen innumerable blessings come to my family and me as we have sought to faithfully live the law of tithing and offerings. Some blessings have been temporal, others spiritual, but all have strengthened our testimony that the Lord always fulfills His promises and that the windows of heaven are opened according to our obedience.’ (Paragraph 11)
How can we develop greater faith in the Lord when we cannot see how things will work out?
‘My wife often teaches a principle that has become very meaningful in our family: We keep the commandments because we love God, not merely because we hope to receive the blessings that come from obedience.’ (Paragraph 12)
Do we sometimes obey commandments because we want the promised blessings rather than because we genuinely love God?
‘All of us will face moments of uncertainty, financial hardship, illness, or loss. Yet even when we do not understand the purpose of our trials, we can have the assurance that the Lord knows our circumstances, honors our obedience, and fulfills His promises in His own time and way.’ (Paragraph 13)
How can we maintain faith when the blessings we seek do not come immediately or in the way we expect?
‘During my years of service in Central America, I have seen men and women prosper both temporally and spiritually. I have met families who once worried about their next meal but who now enjoy greater stability.’ (Paragraph 16)
How have you seen the Lord open the windows of heaven in your own life?
‘President Dallin H. Oaks taught: “The payment of tithing … brings the individual tithe payer unique spiritual blessings. Tithe paying is evidence that we accept the law of sacrifice. It also prepares us for the law of consecration and the other higher laws of the celestial kingdom.”’ (Paragraph 17)
How can paying tithing help us prepare for the greater demands of sacrifice and consecration?
‘I testify that the law of tithing is a law of faith. As we obey it, we demonstrate our trust in the Lord and allow Him to work miracles in our lives, often in ways we do not expect.’ (Paragraph 20)
Why do you think Elder Giuffra describes tithing as a law of faith rather than simply a financial commandment?
Invitations
- Treat the payment of tithing as an opportunity to demonstrate faith and trust in Heavenly Father.
- Ask ourselves whether we keep commandments because we love God, rather than simply because we expect something in return.
- When circumstances are challenging, turn to Heavenly Father in prayer and seek His help rather than allowing fear to determine our decisions.
- Look beyond financial prosperity and recognise the spiritual blessings of peace, hope, employment opportunities, stronger families and greater faith.
- Remember that fast offerings are an important expression of love and concern for those in need.
- Recognise that tithing helps us develop the willingness to sacrifice and dedicate our lives to the Lord.
Application
Reflect on what paying tithing means to you personally.
You can watch Elder Giuffra’s talk here.
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