Getting robbed is a demoralizing experience. Someone has taken something that belonged to you without asking, unlawfully. You feel violated. Suddenly you are without something that is rightfully yours. Did you know it is possible for us to rob God? We can’t go to His house and take His possessions, but we can steal from Him by withholding that which rightfully belongs to Him. “Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing Me! But you say, 'How have we robbed You?' In tithes and offerings.” Malachi 3:8. The tithe was holy, Leviticus 27:30. Holy means “set apart.” It was planned, intended to be given to God but it was not given. Instead, the unwanted was brought for sacrifice: “‘But when you present the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you present the lame and sick, is it not evil? Why not offer it to your governor? Would he be pleased with you? Or would he receive you kindly?’ says the LORD of hosts.” Malachi 1:8. We don’t tithe under the new covenant but the Christian does “… put aside and save, as he may prosper,” 1 Corinthians 16:2. When you withhold your offering or give a meager amount you are robbing God. To give what is left over at the end of the paycheck is the same as offering a blind or a lame animal. Your offering should come off the top, the best of what you have to offer God. Try skipping out on paying taxes to the government and see if they will be pleased with you. Give to God first and give Him your best. It’s not about the money. It’s about honor and respect. “A son honors his father, and a servant his master. Then if I am a father, where is My honor? And if I am a master, where is My respect?”

Malachi 1:6. Is God your Father? Is He your Master? Are you a servant of God? Then honor Him. Don’t rob God.