p. 5 | A Curse or a Blessing? by E. K. Slade

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 22, 1911

A Curse or a Blessing?

By E. K. Slade

E. K. SLADE

It is unnecessary to present Scripture arguments relative to the place and importance of the tithing system in connection with the message and the great work committed to the church at this time. Doubtless all who read these lines appreciate, in a large measure, this excellent financial arrangement.

The characteristic definiteness of the Word prevails in the language used by the prophet in speaking of the frown or favor, the curse or blessing, to be experienced by God's children according to the manner in which they relate themselves to this divine requirement. Of many this significant question might be asked: “Do the words, ‘Ye are cursed with a curse,’ describe your condition and experience?” It is much to be regretted that there are any in our ranks who would have to give an affirmative answer to this question. Members of our churches having such an experience as that are coming far short of their privileges. Those who are unfaithful in the payment of tithes need not be mistaken; for the definite word is, “Ye are cursed with a curse.”

I know that there are churches and individuals who are struggling under such an experience when they should be enjoying God's special blessing, which is promised to those who are faithful in the payment of tithes and offerings. The curse is nevertheless real, though we may not sense it. By such an experience God is dishonored, and the cause is retarded. Do not let your Christian experience be thus blighted; do not jeopardize your eternal inheritance by continued unfaithfulness.

No less definite are the words of the prophet, in speaking of the blessing. “I will pour you out a blessing,” is the promise made to the obedient. The blessing, like the curse, may be known, many times, only by faith, but it is nevertheless real.

Many who should be enjoying the rich blessings of the gospel are under a curse because of unfaithfulness in these matters. I appeal to the brethren in our churches who are not free in the Lord because of unfaithfulness in these things: Break away from the power of the enemy, and place yourselves in the channel of God's promised blessings; you will be glad of it, and you are not safe without it. What a change would be wrought in your life, in your home, in your church, and in all the conferences,

if universal faithfulness were practised by all!

There are churches which are determined to get every member to pay a full tithe. Such a move would be a wise undertaking in all our churches. Through faithful effort, the tithe per capita has greatly increased in most conferences during the past few years; but there is still a great opportunity for improvement. It seems to me that no other object could be more laudable than for our church workers to make a vigorous and definite effort to bring about universal faithfulness in the payment of tithes. When all our people pay an honest tithe, there will be no lack of means. While it is true that the minister has a special responsibility, I feel certain that a wise and careful effort, properly planned and pushed forward by the church officers in each church, would result in an encouraging increase of the tithes, and at the same time greatly improve the spirituality of our churches. If all will bring in all their tithes into the Lord's storehouse, a decided forward move in our work, both at home and abroad, will be made possible.

Mount Vernon, Ohio.