Timing is Everything

from Elliott

I have had a number of people ask us the question that we too have been asking – When do you move to South Africa? The current tough economic situation makes that question even more challenging. Why would you be out trying to raise financial support now? So as not to appear unintelligent or even irrational, I would love to have a great answer for that question. But for now, I can only respond, ‘We will move to South Africa in God’s time. After all, it is His plan.’

The pragmatic answer is we need to raise at least 75% of our annual operating budget as well as sell our house before we can make the move. Katherine has an even more direct approach, “God will assure that we have sold the house and raised the financial support by the time He wants us to be there.” There certainly is the scriptural basis for that type of ‘provision’ thinking – the lilies of the field sort of thing – but it is hard for me sometimes to drop a little scripture into the metaphorical planning spreadsheet that is always in my mind.

And then there is the ‘test me’ that we find in Malachi where it talks about tithing and testing God. “Bring your full tithe to the Temple treasury so there will be ample provisions in my Temple. Test me in this and see if I don't open up heaven itself to you and pour out blessings beyond your wildest dreams.” (Ch 3, v.10 Message)

I wonder as a missionary, giving up wage income and economic opportunity, how does the concept of tithe fit in. Can it be said that putting your ‘YES’ on the table in answer to your call to serve is one part of the surrendering of your personal control of your future that tithing represents. I think this is saying quite clearly, “Trust Me” and allow God to pour out His blessings and provide for our every need. And for those who sometimes doubt, a gracious God even invites us to test Him. I may just have to accept the invitation!