Opening the Windows of Heaven
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- How does Elder Andersen define the law of tithing?
- What are some examples Elder Andersen uses to illustrate the blessings of paying tithing?
- How does Elder Andersen explain the use of tithes and offerings in the Church?
- What are the spiritual and temporal blessings associated with tithing according to Elder Andersen?
- How does tithing prepare us for the Savior’s return?
Topics
Understanding the Divine Law of Tithing
Elder Andersen explains that all we have and all we are comes from God. As disciples of Christ, we willingly share with those around us. The Lord asks us to return 10 percent of our increase to Him and His kingdom on earth. In return, He promises to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings. These blessings can be temporal or spiritual, and sometimes subtle and easy to overlook.
With all the Lord gives to us, He has asked us to return to Him and His kingdom on earth 10 percent of our increase.
He has promised us that He will protect us from evil. These promises are so certain, the Lord declares, "Prove me now herewith," a phrase found nowhere else in the scriptures but when quoting Malachi.
- What does it mean to return to the Lord 10 percent of our increase?
- What are the promises associated with paying tithing?
- How have you experienced the blessings of paying tithing in your life?
- How can you strengthen your commitment to pay a full tithe?
Tithing as a Matter of Faith
Elder Andersen emphasizes that tithing is primarily a matter of faith, not money. Being honest in our tithes is a way of showing our willingness to put the Lord first in our lives. This act of faith invites blessings from heaven.
The world speaks of tithing in terms of our money, but the sacred law of tithing is principally a matter of our faith.
Being honest in our tithes is one way we show our willingness to put the Lord first in our lives, above our own cares and interest.
- How does Elder Andersen describe tithing as a matter of faith?
- What does it mean to put the Lord first in our lives through tithing?
- How has your faith been strengthened by paying tithing?
- How can you better put the Lord first in your life through tithing?
Stewardship of the Lord’s Sacred Funds
Elder Andersen explains that the tithes and offerings given by members of the Church belong to the Lord, not to the leaders of the Church. These sacred funds are used to bless those in need, support missionary work, build temples, establish the Church in faraway places, and sponsor institutions of higher learning.
These sacred funds do not belong to the leaders of the Church. They belong to the Lord. His servants are painstakingly aware of the sacred nature of their stewardship.
From the generous tithes and offerings you have consecrated to the Lord, last year more than a billion US dollars were used to bless those in need.
- What is the role of Church leaders in managing the Lord’s sacred funds?
- How are tithes and offerings used to further the work of the Lord?
- How do you feel knowing your tithing contributes to the work of the Lord worldwide?
- How can understanding the use of tithes and offerings in the Church strengthen your commitment to pay tithing?
Blessings from Paying Tithing
Elder Andersen shares several stories to illustrate the blessings that come from paying tithing, both temporal and spiritual. These blessings are not measured by the amount of money contributed, but by the trust we place in the Lord.
The blessings of tithing come in many ways.
The spiritual power of the divine law of tithing is not measured by the amount of money contributed, for both the prosperous and the poor are commanded by the Lord to contribute 10 percent of their income. The power comes from placing our trust in the Lord.
- What are some of the blessings that come from paying tithing?
- How does trust in the Lord relate to the blessings of tithing?
- What blessings have you personally experienced as a result of paying tithing?
- How can you build greater trust in the Lord through the principle of tithing?
Tithing and the Lord’s Work
Elder Andersen concludes by affirming that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is part of God’s important work on earth, which is supported by the tithes and offerings of its members. He testifies that we will see the greatest manifestations of the Savior’s power as we faithfully contribute to His work.
You and I are part of God’s important work upon the earth.
In coming days, we will see the greatest manifestations of the Savior’s power that the world has ever seen. Between now and the time He returns ... , He will bestow countless privileges, blessings, and miracles upon the faithful.
- How does paying tithing contribute to the Lord’s work on earth?
- What does Elder Andersen mean by the "greatest manifestations of the Savior’s power"?
- How have you seen your tithing contribute to the Lord’s work?
- How can you prepare for the "greatest manifestations of the Savior’s power" through your faithfulness in paying tithing?
