Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 records how Moses completed the tabernacle and received offerings from twelve leaders of Israel over twelve days, each presenting identical gifts for the altar’s dedication. The passage emphasizes the diversity of responsibilities among the Levites, God’s provision, principles for biblical giving, and the importance of faithful generosity. Ultimately, these acts of sacrificial giving prepared the way for Moses to hear God’s voice from the mercy seat, highlighting the covenantal blessing tied to giving.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
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Scriptures used in this lesson:
Numbers 7:1-9, Numbers 7:10-13, Numbers 7:14-18, Revelation 21:9-11, Revelation 21:12-21, Revelation 22:1-2, Mark 12:41-44, Numbers 7:89, Malachi 3:8-11,
Numbers 7:1-9
7:1 And it came to pass on the day that Moses had fully set up the tabernacle, and had anointed it, and sanctified it, and all the instruments thereof, both the altar and all the vessels thereof, and had anointed them, and sanctified them;
2 That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who were the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:
3 And they brought their offering before the LORD, six covered wagons, and twelve oxen; a wagon for two of the princes, and for each one an ox: and they brought them before the tabernacle.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
4 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
5 Take it of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.
6 And Moses took the wagons and the oxen, and gave them unto the Levites.
7 Two wagons and four oxen he gave unto the sons of Gershon, according to their service:
8 And four wagons and eight oxen he gave unto the sons of Merari, according unto their service, under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.
9 But unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto them was that they should bear upon their shoulders.
Numbers 7:10-13
10 And the princes offered for dedicating of the altar in the day that it was anointed, even the princes offered their offering before the altar.
11 And the LORD said unto Moses, They shall offer their offering, each prince on his day, for the dedicating of the altar.
12 And he that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah:
13 And his offering was one silver charger, the weight thereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them were full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Numbers 7:14-18
14 One spoon of ten shekels of gold, full of incense:
15 One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
16 One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
17 And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Nahshon the son of Amminadab.
18 On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:
Introduction: Unity in Service and Giving
The reason I wanted to read from that paper was so that we could all follow the exact words together. If we each read from the different versions we have, it would be confusing. Last week, we discussed the compensation of the Levites. The leaders had brought oxen and carts, presented them to Moses, and Moses gave them to the Levites. I want to remind you of that, because tonight’s passage builds on it.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The Levites’ Different Burdens
We pick up on page 149 in your notes. It says that the sons of Kohath were given no carts. Their service in the sanctuary required them to carry things on their shoulders. The Kohathites had to carry their load themselves, while the Merarites and Gershonites received carts and oxen to transport theirs.
The Kohathites carried the holy furnishings. These included the altar, the laver bowl, the lampstand, the altar of incense, and the table of showbread. These were the objects tied to redemption, and they had to bear them directly on their shoulders. That was their portion of service, different from the others who had practical help with theirs.
Symbolism of Ministry Responsibilities
The passage in Numbers 7:6-9 shows us something about ministry. The Lord gives different responsibilities to His people. Some may have tasks that seem easier, and others may face more challenging tasks. Yet, each of us is called to obey in the work God has given. The form may differ, but the calling remains equally important.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
If we are all Levites, then we each have something to carry. Every believer has been given a responsibility, and each one of us has a task to fulfill. Last week, we talked about vision and provision. Wherever God gives vision, He also provides provision. If He tells you to carry something heavy—like pillars, sockets, or poles—He will also give you a way to accomplish it.
Sometimes it seems like others have it easier. For example, Pastor Buren always seems to have pilots with airplanes in his church. One may leave, but another one shows up. That is God providing for his ministry. At times, I think it would be great if I had that same blessing. But the truth is, God equips each of us in different ways, giving us exactly what we need to do the work He has assigned.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Still, not everything comes with convenience. Sometimes, like the Kohathites, there is no cart and no oxen. Sometimes the only way is to carry the burden on your shoulders. And this is especially true of the things tied to redemption. They cannot be handled easily. David learned that lesson when he tried to move the ark on a cart, and Uzzah died trying to steady it. The point is that, as priests of God, each of us has something to carry. Sometimes God allows you to use a cart, and other times He requires you to carry it yourself. But one way or another, every believer is called to bear responsibility.
Principles of Biblical Giving
I want to connect this to today. If you had page 149, you would see that I’ve listed four principles of giving. We build this on the same foundation as the Levites’ compensation. The question is, how do you know if your giving is being used properly? How do you know if church leaders are handling resources with integrity? How do you know if the money you give for God’s kingdom is truly being used in God’s kingdom?
These are essential questions. Giving has been abused over the years, and it can be a sensitive topic. But scripture offers us clear principles, and I want to give you four of them that will help us understand biblical giving the right way.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Leaders Must Know Vision and Need
The first principle is that leaders must know the vision and the need. The elders should be in touch with what God is calling the church to do. They should understand the vision well enough to explain it to the people, so that everyone can see the need clearly. Without leaders who understand the vision, the people cannot follow it. So the very first thing we must have is leaders who know the need.
Leaders Set the Example in Giving
The second principle is that leaders must set the example in giving. If leaders themselves are not giving to the work of God, it raises doubt among the people. But when leaders are seen giving faithfully, it encourages the congregation to give as well. In this passage, twelve leaders came and gave extensive offerings, and that act became an example for the people to follow. Leaders who give help create a healthy and generous environment in the church.
Leaders Work Together
The third principle is that leaders must work together. We see in verse three that two leaders would join efforts to buy a cart and give it as a shared offering. This showed unity among them. When leaders are unified in vision and action, it strengthens the faith of the people and encourages them to give. On the other hand, when leaders are divided and fighting, it discourages the congregation and weakens the work. Unity among leaders sets the tone for the whole body of believers.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Numbers 7:2-5
2 That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who were the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:
3 And they brought their offering before the LORD, six covered wagons, and twelve oxen; a wagon for two of the princes, and for each one an ox: and they brought them before the tabernacle.
4 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
5 Take it of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.
Giving as an Offering to God
We are now on page 150, talking about giving in the name of the Lord. Verse 3 in Numbers chapter 7 says that the leaders brought their offering before the Lord. That is the key—our giving must be brought to Him. When I give, I must ask, “Whose name am I giving in?” The answer is simple: I give in the name of the Lord. Colossians 3:17 reminds us that whatever we do, in word or deed, we are to do it in the name of Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
But here is the question. If I truly give in the name of the Lord, what happens if I later dislike how the money was spent? Did I really give it as unto Him? Once I give, I have done my part. The problem in recent years is that abuses in ministry have shaken people’s confidence. Many in the body of Christ do not know who to trust or how to give with faith.
When we look at Numbers 7, we see how they gave. Verse 2 says they brought their offering before the Lord. Verse 3 shows they presented it at the tabernacle. For us today, that would be our place of worship—our local church. We bring it and present it to God in His house.
But notice what happened next. Moses received the offerings on behalf of the people. Someone had to take it. And Moses then gave it to the Levites according to God’s direction. The important detail is not only that he gave it to them, but that first, he spent time with the Lord. Verse 4 says, “The Lord spoke to Moses.” Moses listened and then followed the Spirit’s instruction. That is the proper order. God’s leaders must receive the gifts, seek the Lord’s wisdom, and then use them for the service of His house.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Giving as an Offering to God
I want us to see this format of how giving works in scripture. From it, we can learn four guidelines that help us give in the right way. These are scriptural principles that keep us from making mistakes in our giving.
Know Those Who Labor Among You
The first guideline is to know those who labor among us. First Thessalonians 5:12 tells us this clearly. It is hard to know a ministry that is far away. You may see someone on television or hear about their work, but that does not mean you really know them. We need to be careful not to give blindly to those we have no relationship with.
Give to Those Who Minister to You
The second guideline is that our primary giving should go to those who minister to us spiritually. First Corinthians 9:11 says that if someone has sown spiritual things into our lives, it is right for us to give back to them from our material blessings. A proven track record also matters. If a person has faithfully served in ministry for many years with integrity, that is a good sign. But many flashy ministries appear, and though they look and sound professional, we actually know little about them. That is a warning for us.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Give to Those Within Your Gates
The third guideline is to give to those in our local area, or as scripture says, “within our gates.” Deuteronomy 14:29 tells us to care for the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow. This means giving should begin with those closest to us and within our reach.
Bring Offerings into the Storehouse
The fourth guideline is to bring our giving into the storehouse. Malachi 3:10 says the storehouse is where we fellowship—the place where we gather to worship. This should be our primary place of giving.
These four principles—knowing who labors among us, giving to those who minister to us, supporting those in our area, and bringing offerings into the storehouse—serve as practical and biblical guidelines that protect us from mistakes in giving.
The princes gave their offerings for the dedication of the altar on the day it was anointed. This was not a one-day event but lasted twelve days, and it was exceptional. The altar was dedicated as each leader came forward on his day and gave. This was the Lord’s way of setting apart the altar—through the giving of the leaders, one by one, over twelve days.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
As I studied this passage, I looked carefully to see if it was everyone giving or only the leaders. The scripture kept pointing back to the leaders. Each prince brought an offering on his day as part of the dedication. Numbers 7:11 makes this clear: the Lord instructed that each leader should bring his offering on his appointed day for the dedication of the altar.
Significance and Diversity in Giving
There is a lesson in this for us. At some point in your walk with the Lord, there will be a time of significant giving. It may not happen often, but God sets aside certain days where He provides you with the means to give in a big way. These are special moments of dedication in your personal faith journey.
Examples of Significant Giving
This has happened to me twice. The first was when I sold a house and prospered $35,000, and I tithed from that blessing. Later, after moving to Lafayette, I sold another house and gained $40,000. This time, I gave the entire amount to the church. That gift helped support the renovations we enjoy today, along with the faithful giving of our congregation. Those days were my days of big giving. Each of us will have moments like this, when God entrusts us with more, and we have the opportunity to dedicate it back to Him.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
When I tithed from the first house I sold, it was about $4,000, and I gave it while attending Pastor Buren’s church. He was very happy with that gift. Later, when I gave the $40,000 here, Pastor Tebow was very happy as well. Giving in those moments brought joy to my pastors, and it helped me understand something deeper. It gave me a small glimpse of how the Lord feels when His people give generously. When it becomes your day and you choose to give, there is a special joy in heaven.
Every believer will face such a moment at some point. You may sell a house, receive an inheritance, or come into an unexpected blessing. In those times, you may wrestle for a moment with the question, “Should I tithe on this?” But when you realize it is your day—the moment God has entrusted you with abundance—you will give. Some here have already experienced that.
Diversity of Leadership and Giving Styles
Another thing to notice in this passage is the variety of leaders who gave. There were twelve different leaders, and each brought their own personality to the offering. Their individuality shows us something about diversity in leadership. Just as the twelve leaders of Israel were unique, the leaders in our churches are also different. They have their own gifts, personalities, and ways of expressing devotion to God.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Take Judah, for example. His name means “praise” or “celebration.” When I picture Judah bringing his offering, I do not see him coming quietly or reserved. I imagine him entering with music, banners, and joy, worshiping God with his whole heart. But not all leaders would give in that way. Some might give quietly, not wanting anyone to notice. Others may offer with reverence and silence. And then there are those in between, who blend both approaches.
The point is that God uses all kinds of leaders and all kinds of personalities. Some are bold and expressive, while others are quiet and humble. What matters is not how you give but that you give when it becomes your day.
There are many ways to give to God. When it is your day to give, you should do it in the way that fits you. Some prefer to give quietly, without anyone knowing. Others may give more openly. I have received money in secret, cash in the mail, and even donations from memorials, such as when one woman asked that, instead of flowers at her passing, people send money to the ministerial association. Each of these examples shows that giving comes in different forms, but the important thing is that the giving happens.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The Heart and Style of Giving
The real point is that giving reflects your personality and your heart. There is not only one prescribed way to do it. God allows the diversity of giving so that each person can serve Him in their own unique way. What matters is not the style but the sincerity.
Components of God’s Plan in Numbers
We also need to remember the larger purpose of this study. We are not just looking at details about the tabernacle, sacrifices, or even laws like leprosy. Of course, we are studying Numbers to understand how God’s people prepared to move, how they came to the Jordan, and how they could cross into the promised land. Right now, the lesson He is teaching us is about giving.
This is the component before us. We have already studied other principles and truths through the first seven chapters. But in this part, God is focusing on giving. He wants us to see that giving is necessary for His work and that every believer has a role in it.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
What we are studying is the idea of components in God’s plan. Each section of Numbers gives us another piece of the picture. One component was establishing leadership and identifying the tribal leaders. Another was learning the arrangement of the camp, with some tribes close in and others farther out. That helps us see why not everyone is as involved. Another component was the tabernacle, which showed us the workings of redemption. We also learned that about one-third of the people carried the work of the kingdom, which reminds us that not everyone will be reliable to help. These lessons are all parts of the bigger picture.
We also saw how leprosy in the camp became an illustration of how spiritual leprosy isolates people today. Then we studied how the Lord provided for the Levites and compensated them. That helps us understand how provision works in the church today. Each chapter adds another component. The people of Israel could not move toward the Jordan until God had worked all these pieces into them—leaders, warnings, the tabernacle, the priesthood, and more. Only when all these parts were in place could they move forward.
The people sat at Mount Sinai until all the components were ready. This reminds us why many churches are stuck. They have not put all the pieces together. They remain sitting when they should be moving. We must grasp every principle God gives in order to be ready for forward progress.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Importance of Ministry Resources
The main point of this chapter is about giving. To move forward in God’s mission costs something. Conquest, advancement, and even holding ground require generosity. It takes money to keep the lights on, to cool the building, to clean, and to maintain everything. Ministry requires resources. For the people of God to move into what He has promised, they must give freely. To be a leader in the house of faith requires a heart willing to give again and again.
We cannot expect those who are farther from the center of the camp to give if those who are close in will not give. Tonight, we are still talking about giving, because that is the focus of Numbers chapter 7. Just as earlier chapters dealt with spiritual leprosy or the tabernacle, this one is about giving. It was a twelve-day event where each leader gave an offering on his day.
To make this practical, imagine if we set aside seven days for our own leaders. Each elder would take a day to bring a large offering in their own way. On each day, the rest of us would celebrate with them. In this way, giving would not only be about money but also about worship and unity. That was how it happened with Israel. On the first day, Nahshon from the tribe of Judah came forward, and the cycle of giving and celebration began. Judah was first, and his tribe’s name means “celebrated,” with the idea of using the hands to worship and revere God.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Symbolism in Offerings
Nahshon brought his offering in four parts. One piece was a silver platter that weighed 130 shekels. It was filled with fine flour mixed with oil. In scripture, flour represents the Word of God, while oil represents the Spirit of God. Both are necessary in our lives. We cannot live on Word alone, nor on Spirit alone. We need both—the truth of the Word and the power of the Spirit working together. Just as the platter was filled, we too should be vessels filled with the Word and the Spirit.
This symbolic offering teaches us how our lives should be presented before God: full, balanced, and consecrated with both His Word and His Spirit. It shows us that giving is more than money; it is about offering ourselves to the Lord in worship and in wholeness.
Meaning of Each Offering Item
The offering also included a silver bowl weighing seventy shekels. It followed the same principle as the silver platter. Along with it came a golden spoon of ten shekels, filled with incense. In scripture, incense represents the prayers of the saints. Revelation 5:8 and 8:3 use the same word to describe incense rising before God. These golden prayers symbolize the precious and valued prayers that come before the throne of the Lord.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The Sacrifice: Burnt Offering
The second part of the offering was the burnt offering. The animal was killed, flayed, and then completely consumed on the altar. Every part was burned unto God as a sweet-smelling savor. This reminds us of Romans 12:1-2, where we are instructed to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to the Lord. Just as the burnt offering was fully consumed, our lives should be entirely surrendered to God.
The first offering, with the silver and gold, was tied to the sanctuary. It provided what was used inside the tabernacle. Our giving often supports God’s house and the worship that takes place there. But the burnt offering points to something more personal. It is not only about supporting the work of God’s house, but about placing ourselves on the altar as a sacrifice.
In this offering, they brought one young bull, one ram, and one lamb of the first year. Each of these animals carried its own symbolism. The bull represented strength and productivity, often tied to breeding stock. The ram pointed to maturity and leadership. The lamb symbolized innocence and purity. Together, they show the wide range of sacrifice God calls for—our strength, our maturity, and even our innocence. All are meant to be surrendered to Him as acts of worship.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The Sin Offering and Christ
We are the sheep of His pasture, and this speaks of us. We are called to present ourselves as living sacrifices to the Lord. The third part of the offering was the sin offering. In this sacrifice, the blood was shed and the fat was burned on the altar. But the rest of the animal—the hide, the head, and the flesh—was taken outside the camp. This pointed forward to Jesus Christ. He was also taken outside the city, nailed to a cross, and offered as the actual sin offering for us. Just as the goat was for sin, Jesus became the sacrifice for our sins.
This teaching reminds us that giving is not only about money. When the Bible speaks of offerings, it points deeper into our lives. God wants more than dollars and cents. He wants us to give Him ourselves. In Christ, we carry the gift of salvation, and we are called to share Him with others. When we give Jesus from our lives, people around us can find forgiveness and hope.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The fourth kind of offering was the peace offering. In this, the fat and kidneys were given on the altar, but the people and the priests ate the rest of the meat. It symbolized fellowship—fellowship with God and fellowship with one another. Jesus said the greatest commandment is to love God, and the second is to love your neighbor as yourself. This offering showed both. Part was consumed on the altar, pointing to God, but the rest was shared in community.
In this passage, the priests, the people, and the leaders all shared in the meal. The offering included two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five lambs. That was a tremendous amount of food, and it turned into a feast of fellowship. It was a picture of unity in the body of Christ. With Jesus as our high priest, we are called to love God, love people, and walk in fellowship with one another.
The Process and Effort of Giving
The offerings took an incredible amount of time and effort. Think about the labor required for gutting, preparing, and burning the animals. It was not quick or easy. Standing and waiting until the burnt offering or sin offering was fully consumed demanded patience and commitment. This was an all-day process and required serious dedication. The question for us today is this: how much time and effort do we put into our giving?
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Many people do not like to spend much time talking about giving. It is often seen as a sensitive subject. When people hear about giving, they usually think only about money. But from God’s perspective, giving is primarily about our lives. Yes, money is included—where your treasure is, your heart will also be—but life itself is the greater issue. In Numbers 7 we see twelve leaders giving, and their actions provide a picture of what God expects from His people.
Biblical Numerology: Twelve
Numbers in scripture also carry profound meaning. For example, the number five often points to the fivefold ministry—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Similarly, the number twelve appears throughout scripture. We see it in the tabernacle, in the temple, and especially in Revelation 21 and 22, when the New Jerusalem is described with many references to twelve.
When we see the number twelve, it points us to the people of God, the church. It is not just about heaven, but about the complete and perfected body of Christ. The twelve leaders in Numbers 7, each offering their sacrifices, are a picture of the fullness of God’s people walking in unity and devotion. Studying this reminds us that numbers in the Bible are more than numbers—they reveal spiritual truths about God’s plan for His people.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Revelation 21:9-11
9 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife.
10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,
11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
The Lord has filled this passage in Revelation with the number twelve, which teaches us something important. Revelation 21:9 describes an angel speaking to John, saying, “Come, I will show you the bride, the Lamb’s wife.” What is he going to show John? The bride, which is the Lamb’s wife—the church. This is not just something a preacher made up; scripture supports it. Ephesians 5:23–33 clearly connects the church to the bride of Christ.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Verse 10 says that John was carried away in the Spirit and shown the “great city, the holy Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God.” The angel said he would show John the bride, but what John saw was the New Jerusalem. This reveals that the New Jerusalem represents the church, the bride of Christ, coming down out of heaven. Often, we think only about going up to heaven, but in this picture, God is bringing His church down to earth, filled with His glory.
As we continue in Revelation 21 and 22, we see many twelves—twelve foundations, twelve gates, twelve angels, twelve kinds of fruit. Numbers in scripture carry meaning, and twelve points us to the church. What many have always been taught to see as heaven actually describes the perfected, glorious church of Jesus Christ. To live in the presence of such a church would be heaven on earth.
This passage shows that what God is building is a heavenly church, one filled with His glory. It is a church prepared like a bride—washed by the Word, without spot or wrinkle, ready for the bridegroom. That is the New Jerusalem: not just a place above us, but the perfected body of Christ on display. The heavenly church is the bride of Christ, and the number twelve throughout this passage affirms that truth.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Revelation 21:12, 14, 16, 21
12 And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:
14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
Revelation describes the New Jerusalem with great detail. It had a high wall with twelve gates. At each gate stood an angel, and on the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. This shows how God’s covenant people are forever part of His plan.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The wall of the city also had twelve foundations. Written on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. Here we see both covenants represented—the tribes of Israel and the apostles of Jesus—together forming the complete people of God.
The city itself was measured as foursquare, its length equal to its breadth. The size was twelve thousand furlongs, once again showing the number twelve as a symbol of God’s complete order and perfection in His people. This is the picture of a balanced and eternal dwelling place for the bride of Christ.
Verse 21 highlights the gates again, describing them as twelve pearls. Each gate was made from a single pearl, emphasizing beauty and value. Then John saw the street of the city, which was pure gold. Scripture says “street,” not “streets.” This one street was not ordinary gold but transparent, like precious glass or a reflection of God’s purity. It represents something more than material wealth—it symbolizes prayer, holiness, and the things God Himself considers precious.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Revelation 22:1-2
1 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.
2 In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.
In Revelation 22, John continues to describe the same city, the New Jerusalem. He saw a pure river of the water of life, flowing straight from the throne of God and the Lamb. In verse 2, the river is shown running down the middle of the city’s one street. On both sides of the river was the tree of life. Notice it is one tree, not many. This one tree produced twelve kinds of fruit, showing variety and abundance. It points us to Christ, who is the vine, and we, as branches, produce fruit through Him. One tree with twelve kinds of fruit shows how the church, rooted in Christ, has everything needed to feed the world.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
This connects with the theme of giving. When we give, we are truly giving to the Lamb’s wife—the church. Our giving strengthens her, allows the gospel to be preached, and helps prepare the church to be spotless and ready for the bridegroom. Understanding this changes how we see giving. It is not just about money or resources—it is about preparing the church for Christ’s return. The more we give, the more the body of Christ can be perfected, and the quicker she will be ready for her bridegroom.
Numbers 7 then describes how each day a leader presented his offering. On the second day, it was Nethaneel of Issachar, whose name means “gift of God.” He brought the same offering as the leader before him: a silver charger, a silver bowl, a golden spoon full of incense, a young bull, six rams, six lambs, six goats, and two oxen. Along with another leader, he also provided a cart to transport the tabernacle.
On the third day, Eliab of Zebulun brought his offering. On the fourth day, Eliezer of Reuben did the same. Each leader gave the same items, day after day. At first, this may seem repetitive, but God recorded every single offering. Each gift mattered to Him. Even though it was the same items, He honored each one because it was given from the heart. This teaches us that God values obedience and consistency in giving, not just variety.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
On the seventh day, Elishama from the tribe of Ephraim brought his gift. His name means “God of hearing.” What did he give? The same as the others—one silver charger, one silver bowl, one golden spoon, one bull, six rams, and so on. By this point, it is clear that God is repeating Himself for a reason. Each leader brought the same offering, yet God recorded each one in detail. It may feel repetitive to us, but it shows that He is trying to teach us something important.
The Twelve Leaders and Their Offerings
From the eighth day to the twelfth day, each leader gave the identical offering. This long, repeated section in Numbers 7 is not wasted space. God wanted their faithfulness in giving to be remembered. These leaders—Nahshon, Nethaneel, Eliab, Eliezer, Shelumiel, Eliasaph, Elishama, Gamaliel, Abidan, Ahiezer, Pagiel, and Ahira—all gave the same gift, and for 3,500 years their generosity has been recorded in scripture. Their giving was, and still is, a public testimony of dedication and faith.
Throughout the Bible, we see that God’s people are known by their generosity. When Moses called on Israel to build the tabernacle, they gave so much that he had to command them to stop bringing offerings. When David prepared for Solomon’s temple, gold and silver covered floors, walls, and ceilings. Over and over again, God’s people responded with sacrificial giving.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The point is clear: one of the marks of a true child of God is a desire to give. Whether in the wilderness, during the building of the temple, or in the life of the church today, God’s people consistently show incredible generosity. It is a reflection of His Spirit working in their hearts.
Mark 12:41-44
41 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.
42 And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing.
43 And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury:
44 For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.
Why twelve repetitions of the same offering in Numbers 7? God knows exactly what we give, and He also knows how we give. Scripture shows that both are recorded, but what God looks at most closely is the manner of giving. He is concerned with the heart behind the gift.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
God’s View of Giving: The Widow’s Example
Mark 12:41 gives us a powerful picture of this. Jesus positioned Himself by the treasury and watched the people as they gave. He carefully observed both the rich, who gave large sums, and a poor widow, who gave only two small coins. Though her gift was tiny compared to the others, Jesus declared that she gave more than them all. Why? Because she gave everything she had.
This moment highlights that the Lord not only watches what we give but also how we give. He pays attention to the motives and sacrifices behind it. Jesus even spoke openly to His disciples about what He saw, using the widow as an example of true generosity.
The Measure of the Heart
The lesson is clear. God does not measure giving by dollars or size. He measures it by the heart. The rich gave out of abundance, but the widow gave out of faith and devotion. She gave her whole life through that offering. In the same way, what Jesus really desires from us is not the amount of money but the surrender of ourselves. If He has our hearts, then everything else will follow. Where our treasure is, there our hearts will be also.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
For one person, a thousand dollars might be a sacrificial gift, while for another it may be ten dollars. The amount is not what matters most. God records the gift, but what He looks at is how it is given. That is why the widow, who gave only a fraction of a penny, gave more than anyone else. She gave with her whole heart and offered all she possessed, and in the eyes of the Lord, that was greater than the riches of others.
The principle is this: giving is not about what but about how. God watches our attitude in giving. Do we want to give? Do we give willingly and joyfully? Giving is one of the key attributes of God within us. The Father loved the world and gave His Son. Jesus loved the church and gave Himself for her. Our willingness to give is one of the most evident signs that Christ truly lives in our hearts.
As we come to the close of this chapter, I want to say how grateful I am for this church. Over the years, you have been well taught in giving. You understand its necessity and its place in the kingdom of God. I also believe we are all still growing in this area. None of us has fully arrived, but we want to grow and become more like Christ in our giving.
I thank God for your faithfulness. Week after week, you give—some weekly, some monthly, some with cash, some with checks—but the consistency is evident. You are a generous, faithful people. Your example of giving is a true testimony that Christ dwells in you.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The Measure of the Heart
Numbers 7:89
89 And when Moses was gone into the tabernacle of the congregation to speak with him, then he heard the voice of one speaking unto him from off the mercy seat that was upon the ark of testimony, from between the two cherubims: and he spake unto him.
After the twelve days of giving recorded in Numbers 7, Moses entered the tabernacle. This was not only his tabernacle—it was called the tabernacle of the congregation, a place for all the people. After all the offerings, sacrifices, and generous giving of gold, silver, and livestock, something remarkable happened. Moses heard the voice of God speaking to him from above the mercy seat.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Giving Prepares for God’s Voice
This was the first time God’s voice was recorded as coming from the mercy seat, between the two cherubim over the ark of the covenant. God had told Moses back in Exodus 25:22 that He would meet with him there, but here in Numbers 7:89 it finally happens. The timing is significant—God spoke after the giving. It shows us that giving is tied to hearing from God.
This passage is not only about money. It is also about mercy, obedience, and covenant. Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” If we want to receive mercy, we must give mercy. If we desire to hear God clearly, our lives must be aligned with giving of money, of ourselves, and of mercy.
Moses heard God’s voice from the mercy seat because giving had prepared the way. It was covenantal. The mercy seat rested on top of the ark of the covenant, symbolizing God’s promise to His people. In the same way, our giving is a covenant act. It is tied to our faith because faith and giving work together. If our giving is right, our faith becomes strong. Giving demonstrates trust in God and opens our hearts to hear His voice.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The lesson is clear: giving and covenant are connected. When we give faithfully—whether in resources, mercy, or obedience—we put ourselves in a position to receive from God. It is in that place of covenant that His voice speaks with clarity and His mercy flows into our lives.
Malachi 3:8-11
8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.
10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
11 And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
The Covenant Promise of Malachi 3
In Malachi 3:8, God asks, “Will a man rob God?” The people respond with confusion, and God answers, “In tithes and offerings.” Because they had withheld their giving, they were under a curse as a nation. God then commands them to bring all the tithes into the storehouse, so that His house would have provision. He also gives a powerful promise: if they obey, He will open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing that cannot be contained.
In verse 11, God adds another promise: “I will rebuke the devourer for your sake.” This means He will protect what belongs to you. Your harvest will not be destroyed, and your fruit will not fall too early. God declares this as the “Lord of hosts.” To understand that phrase, we must see that scripture uses “hosts” in two ways. The first host refers to God’s heavenly army of angels. Genesis 32:1 shows Jacob meeting the angels of God, and he said, “This is God’s host.” God, who dwells between the cherubim, commands His angelic forces.
The second host refers to God’s people on earth. In Exodus 12:41, the Israelites leaving Egypt are called “the host of the Lord.” This means God has a host in heaven and a host on earth. In Malachi 3, when He says He will act as the Lord of hosts, He is declaring that both His angels and His people are on assignment.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Conclusion: The Blessing of Faithful Giving
The lesson is powerful. If we are faithful givers, God promises to release His heavenly host to fight for us and His earthly host to walk with us. The devourer cannot succeed because God Himself commits to our protection. Giving opens the door to divine partnership—heaven and earth coming together to secure the blessings of God’s people.
When God says He is the Lord of hosts, He is making us a promise. I often receive phone calls from people asking for help. They want food, groceries, or help with their bills. I do want to help everyone, but many of these people have no church home and are not giving into God’s kingdom. Because of that, the heavens remain shut to them. In all my years, I can recall only once when I had to help a faithful giver, and that was because of poor financial choices.
God’s word is accurate: when you are a giver, He promises to put His angels to work for you, and He promises to use His people to help you. You will not be devoured. He will take care of you if you are faithful in giving.
That is the promise of Malachi 3. If we give, God defends us. He sends both heavenly and earthly support to surround us. This is why giving is not optional—it is covenantal. It is part of how God has chosen to bless and protect His people.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Practical Implications
Now, as Numbers 7 shows us, giving took time and effort. The leaders did not just drop off animals and walk away. Each gift required an entire day. It involved sacrifice, labor, and patience. Each leader had his day, and it was costly and demanding. Yet it was also an act of worship.
That is the heart of giving. It is not always easy or convenient. It takes effort and faith. But the Lord of hosts promises that when we do give, He will open heaven, rebuke the devourer, and surround us with His protection. That is His covenant promise, and we can count on it.
Father, we lift our hands to you and, Father, I thank you that these people who are praying with me right now are givers in the house of God.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
Book Of Numbers 7:1-89 – How to Overcome Tithing Hesitation
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