PRAYER and TITHING

In Matthew 9:14 and 2 Samuel 12:22 we discover that fasting can be a form of mourning. We discussed fasting and agreed that it was not required but it is beneficial; however, as Jesus pointed out, it needs to be done discreetly. The Jewish Pharisees did it to be revered by the people but if you want to be revered by God, is must be done without fanfare. You need not give up food to honor God, you can give up anything that you will miss to honor God. Similarly when you contribute to charity and the church, don't advertise it as pointed out in Luke 18. Interesting to note that in Malachi 3:10 we learn that the Lord said to test him concerning tithing and see if you don't gain from it.