Episode Summary Elder David Boudreaux shares a message about the one time God actually invites us to test Him - in the area of tithing. Using the Emergency Broadcast System as an illustration, he walks through Malachi's final Old Testament message where God challenges His people who have robbed Him through withheld tithes and offerings. This isn't about legalism or a prosperity gospel, but about trusting God as a good steward of all He's given us.

Key Points – The concept of tithing began before the Mosaic Law with Cain, Abel, Abraham, and Jacob giving free-will offerings – God told Israel they were robbing Him by withholding tithes and offerings, resulting in a curse on the nation – In Malachi 3:10, God uniquely invites us to "test Me in this" - to see if He won't open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings – Jesus fulfilled the ceremonial Law, but tithing preceded and remains after the Law as a principle for God's people – God owns everything (100%), but allows us to manage 90% as stewards while the tithe belongs to His house – Giving should be done cheerfully as decided in our hearts, not reluctantly or under compulsion – The poor widow who gave her last two mites understood putting God's kingdom first, trusting Him to provide

Main Takeaway God says "you can't afford not to" tithe. This isn't about legalism or a slot-machine prosperity gospel - it's about being good stewards of what God has already given us. When we give back even a portion of what He's blessed us with, we're testing God's faithfulness and participating in His kingdom work. It's not giving away our stuff; it's giving back from His provision.

Memorable Quotes – "God is saying to them and us… You can't afford not to [tithe]." – "I'm not giving away any portion of my stuff - But I'm giving back a portion of what God has blessed me with." – "God does not normally command us to give everything that belongs to Him. He allows us to keep some 90% as managers or stewards, on his behalf." – "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." – "God called it robbery because they had unlawful possession of what belonged to God." – "If we can't give freely, but only reluctantly, perhaps the Lord would rather not have it." – "The important thing is that we see giving as a privilege and not a burden. It should not be out of a sense of duty, but rather out of love for the Lord and a desire to see His kingdom advanced."

Reflection Question If you're not currently tithing, will you turn to God and talk to Him about starting somewhere - even if 10% doesn't feel possible right now - trusting that He will provide your basic needs while you support His church and kingdom work?

Tune in to hear about the old Emergency Broadcast System that interrupted all three TV channels, why the poor widow's two mites were worth more than the rich people's gifts, and the one time in Scripture where God actually invites us to put Him to the test.

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