Blessings in Gratitude Offerings

Not only should God’s children return to the Lord the portion that belongs to Him, they should also bring a gratitude offering, the first fruits of their rich blessings—their most excellent possessions, their best and holiest service. In this way they will gain rich blessings. God will make their hearts like a watered garden. And the harvest that they are enabled to bring to the Master will be the reward of their unselfish use of the talents He has lent them.ULe 125.5

God’s chosen messengers should never have to serve at their own expense, without the help of hearty support from their fellow Christians. It is the responsibility of church members to deal liberally with those who leave secular employment to give themselves to the ministry. When God’s ministers are encouraged, His cause is greatly strengthened.ULe 125.6

God is displeased with those who allow consecrated workers to suffer without the necessities of life. These selfish ones will have to give an account for their misuse of money and for the depression brought on His faithful servants. Those who heed the call of duty and give up everything to engage in God’s service should receive wages that are enough to support themselves and their families.ULe 125.7

In secular labor, workers can earn good wages. Isn’t the work of leading people to Christ more important than any ordinary business? Aren’t those who faithfully engage in this work entitled to decent pay?ULe 126.1

A solemn responsibility rests on ministers to keep their churches aware of the needs of God’s cause and to educate them to give liberally. When the churches fail to give, not only does the work of the Lord suffer, but God withholds the blessing that should come to believers.ULe 126.2