The concept of devoting gain to God is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over all material possessions and the believer's responsibility to honor Him with their resources. This principle is woven throughout Scripture, illustrating the importance of dedicating one's financial and material increase to the service and glory of God.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays a strong foundation for the devotion of gain to God, particularly through the practice of tithing and offerings. In Leviticus 27:30, the Israelites are commanded, "A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD" . This directive underscores the idea that a portion of one's increase is to be set apart for God, recognizing His provision and lordship.

The principle of firstfruits further illustrates this devotion. In Proverbs 3:9-10, believers are instructed, "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine" . Offering the first and best of one's produce signifies trust in God's continued provision and a heart aligned with His purposes.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, the devotion of gain to God is expanded beyond the legalistic requirements of the Old Testament to encompass a heart attitude of generosity and stewardship. Jesus' teachings often highlight the spiritual significance of how one handles wealth. In Matthew 6:19-21, He advises, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven... For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" . This passage emphasizes the eternal perspective believers should have regarding their possessions.

The early church exemplified this principle through communal sharing and support for those in need. Acts 4:32-35 describes how "no one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had" . This radical generosity was a testament to their devotion to God and commitment to the well-being of the community.

Principles of Stewardship

The devotion of gain to God is closely tied to the biblical concept of stewardship. Believers are seen as stewards of God's resources, entrusted with the responsibility to manage them wisely and for His glory. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the importance of faithful stewardship, where servants are rewarded based on their management of the master's resources.

Paul's epistles further reinforce this idea. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, he instructs the wealthy "to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age" . This passage highlights the call to use one's gain for the advancement of God's kingdom and the benefit of others.

Practical Application

The devotion of gain to God is not merely a financial transaction but a holistic approach to life that encompasses one's time, talents, and treasures. It involves a heart posture of gratitude, recognizing that all good things come from God (James 1:17). Believers are encouraged to give cheerfully and sacrificially, as Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:7, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" .

In summary, the devotion of gain to God is a biblical principle that calls believers to honor God with their resources, reflecting a heart of gratitude, trust, and stewardship. Through tithes, offerings, and generous living, Christians are invited to participate in God's work on earth, storing up treasures in heaven and experiencing the joy of giving.