Lifestylez Family Ministries

28/10/2026

| Giving and Tithing — Part 2

ABRAHAM, MELCHIZEDEK, AND THE TENTH

Last Wednesday, we began examining giving and tithing by asking a simple but important question: What matters most to God when we give?

Today, let us go a little deeper.

One of the passages most frequently mentioned in discussions about tithing is Genesis 14:18–20, where Abraham gave a tenth to Melchizedek.

Because this happened before Moses received the Law, some teach that it establishes an ongoing ten-per-cent obligation for every believer.

But is that what the passage actually says?

Hebrews gives us an important detail:

“Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.”
Hebrews 7:4 (KJV)

Notice that Scripture identifies what Abraham gave: a tenth of the spoils.

This happened after Abraham had rescued Lot and recovered goods taken during a conflict. The passage records a particular event. It does not give Abraham a standing command to contribute ten per cent of his regular earnings, nor does it establish such a command for every believer.

That distinction matters.

There is a difference between Scripture describing what somebody did and Scripture commanding everybody else to do the same.

And why does Hebrews 7 discuss Abraham and Melchizedek?

The chapter uses their encounter to explain the significance of Melchizedek's priesthood and ultimately directs our attention to Jesus Christ.

“For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.”
Hebrews 7:12 (KJV)

We must therefore be careful not to take a passage about Christ's priesthood and reduce it to a financial demand.

Does that mean giving is unimportant? Certainly not.

Does it mean that someone who freely chooses to give ten per cent is doing something wrong? Not at all.

The question we are examining is whether Scripture establishes that percentage as a compulsory requirement for every New Covenant believer.

We are not studying this to condemn those who tithe or those who do not. We are studying it because truth matters, and giving should never be driven by fear, pressure or condemnation.

Read Genesis 14:18–24 and Hebrews 7:1–12 for yourself this week.

Next, we will examine what the tithe actually meant under the Law of Moses, who received it and why.

Let us approach God's Word with open hearts, willing to learn and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us into truth.

Family. Community. Unity.

27/10/2026

📖 GROW IN THE WORD. PREPARE TO SERVE.

A desire to serve God is a wonderful starting point. Developing a sound understanding of His Word and learning how to apply it are important parts of preparing for ministry.

At Lifestylez Training Centre, we offer the Ministry A.G.E. Directive — a three-year Bible School and ministry training programme.

A.G.E. stands for Amplification, Growth and Extension.

The programme develops progressively through three years:

📖 YEAR 1 – BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS

Discipleship, sanctification, the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, foundational doctrines, spiritual warfare and an introduction to the fivefold ministry.

📖 YEAR 2 – MINISTRY DEVELOPMENT

A deeper study of the responsibilities and practical functioning of the apostle, prophet, evangelist, shepherd and teacher, together with biblical teachings on spiritual authority and leadership.

📖 YEAR 3 – PRACTICAL MINISTRY

Counselling and deliverance, spiritual warfare, comparative religious studies and practical ministry assignments.

🏠 STUDY FROM HOME THROUGH DISTANCE LEARNING

Study materials and assignments are provided electronically, allowing students to complete their studies from home.

Guidance and assistance are available throughout the learning process, with assessments and certificates issued by Lifestylez Training Centre upon successful completion.

In addition to the Ministry A.G.E. Directive, we offer a range of individual Christian training courses covering discipleship, leadership, biblical foundations, spiritual growth, Christian counselling and more.

Would you like to grow in your knowledge of Scripture or prepare for Christian ministry?

We would love to hear from you.

Contact us for the full curriculum, course fees, payment options and enrolment information.

📞 Call / WhatsApp: 064 924 5523

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌐 Website: https://lifestylez.co.za/lifestylez-training-centre/

LIFESTYLEZ FAMILY MINISTRIES
Family. Community. Unity.

26/10/2026

🌱 | The Power of a Gentle Answer

📖 Proverbs 15:1 (KJV)

“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”

When disagreements arise, our natural instinct is often to defend ourselves, raise our voices, or insist on having the final word.

Yet Scripture reminds us that how we speak matters just as much as what we say.

A gentle answer is not a sign of weakness. It does not mean remaining silent in the face of wrongdoing, abandoning biblical truth, or allowing others to mistreat us.

Rather, it means exercising self-control and choosing words that communicate truth without unnecessary hostility.

Consider how often relationships suffer because of how something was said, rather than what was said.

In our marriages, our relationships with our children, our extended families, and even within the church, our words can either contribute to peace or intensify an existing conflict.

We cannot control another person's response, but we remain responsible for our own words and attitudes.

A gentle answer does not always guarantee a peaceful outcome, but a harsh answer can turn a disagreement into something far more destructive.

🌱 Today's WordSeed Reflection

Before responding to someone who has frustrated, offended, or challenged you, pause and ask yourself:

Am I speaking to resolve the matter, or am I speaking to win the argument?

💬 Let us talk: What helps you remain gentle when someone speaks harshly to you?

Family. Community. Unity.

23/10/2026

DO NOT JUST BELIEVE. LIVE WHAT YOU BELIEVE.

FRIDAY REFLECTION | LIFESTYLEZ FAMILY MINISTRIES

Many people say, "I believe in Jesus."

But have we ever stopped to consider what that statement actually means?

James 2:19 (KJV) tells us: "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."

In Luke 4:41, we read that demons recognised Jesus as Christ, the Son of God.

They knew who He was.

Yet recognising the truth about Jesus as Christ is not the same as surrendering your life to Him.

THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PROFESSING FAITH AND LIVING FAITH.

Scripture is clear about how Salvation begins.

"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." Ephesians 2:8–9 (KJV)

We cannot earn Salvation. It is God's gift, received through faith.

But notice what follows immediately in verse 10:

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10 (KJV)

Grace is not permission to remain unchanged.

It is the beginning of a transformed life.

Through the ongoing work of Sanctification, the Holy Spirit shapes our hearts, renews our minds, and calls us into increasing holiness and obedience.

James confronts us with these words:

"Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone." James 2:17 (KJV)

Our works do not purchase Salvation. But genuine faith should become visible in how we live.

Jesus Himself said:

"If ye love me, keep my commandments." John 14:15 (KJV)

So perhaps the question we should ask ourselves today is not merely:

"Do I believe in Jesus?"

But rather:

"Has my faith in Jesus changed the way I live?"

Does it influence how I treat my family?

How I speak to others?

How I conduct my business?

How I respond when I have been wronged?

How I handle temptation?

How I serve those who cannot repay me?

How I obey God when obedience costs me something?

And when I fall short, does my faith lead me to repentance and renewed surrender?

We are not called to manufacture righteousness through our own strength.

Jesus reminds us:

"...for without me ye can do nothing." John 15:5 (KJV)

As we abide in Christ, His transforming work should bear fruit in our lives.

SAVED BY GRACE.
UNITED WITH CHRIST THROUGH FAITH.
TRANSFORMED THROUGH SANCTIFICATION.
A LIVING FAITH REVEALED THROUGH OBEDIENCE AND GOOD WORKS.

Before examining anyone else's faith, let us examine our own.

Are we merely hearers of the Word, or are we becoming doers?

Are we content to say we believe, or are we willing to live what we believe?

"And be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." James 1:22 (KJV)

FAITH IS MORE THAN SOMETHING WE PROFESS. IT IS SOMETHING WE LIVE.

Lifestylez Family Ministries
Family. Community. Unity.

https://lifestylez.co.za

22/10/2026

AROUND THE TABLE

WHEN THE JOURNEY TAKES LONGER THAN EXPECTED

Have you ever wondered why the journey seems so much longer than you anticipated?

You prayed. You believed. You took steps forward.

Yet the doors remained closed, circumstances became more difficult, and the answers you hoped for seemed further away.

Perhaps today you find yourself asking:

"Lord, why is this taking so long?"

Scripture reminds us:

"And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."
Galatians 6:9 (KJV)

But does perseverance always mean continuing in the same direction?

How do we distinguish faithfulness from stubbornness?

And how do we remain faithful when God's timing differs from our expectations?

In today's Around The Table article, we explore these questions through Scripture, with practical encouragement for those navigating difficult and uncertain seasons.

Do not measure God's faithfulness by the speed of your circumstances.

Read the full article on our website:
https://lifestylez.co.za

LIFESTYLEZ FAMILY MINISTRIES
Family. Community. Unity.



https://lifestylez.co.za/2026/10/22/when-the-journey-takes-longer-than-expected/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=jetpack_social

Around The Table | Lifestylez Family Ministries There are seasons in life when the journey seems much longer than we anticipated. We begin with enthusiasm, faith, and expectation. We pray, make dec…

21/10/2026

THE HEART BEHIND THE GIFT

What matters most to God when we give?

| Lifestylez Family Ministries

Giving is a beautiful expression of our love, worship, and gratitude towards God.

Yet, when we speak about giving in the Church, our conversations often turn towards amounts, percentages, expectations, and obligations.

But have we considered what God sees when we give?

THE HEART OF GIVING

2 Corinthians 9:7 (KJV) teaches:

"Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."

Notice the emphasis on the heart.

Our giving should not be motivated by reluctance, pressure, or fear, but by a willing heart and genuine love for God.

THE WIDOW'S OFFERING

In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus observed people giving into the treasury.

Many wealthy individuals contributed substantial amounts, while a poor widow gave just two small coins.

Yet Jesus drew attention to her offering.

Why?

Because He recognised the sacrifice behind her gift.

What seemed insignificant in monetary terms was deeply meaningful in light of what she had given.

GIVING ACCORDING TO WHAT WE HAVE

2 Corinthians 8:12 (KJV) reminds us:

"For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not."

What a beautiful reminder!

God does not measure our generosity merely by comparing the amounts we give.

Our willingness, sincerity, and circumstances matter.

GENEROSITY REMAINS IMPORTANT

Scripture encourages us to support ministry, care for those in need, and share what God has entrusted to us.

But giving should never become merely a religious performance or an attempt to purchase God's favour.

Our generosity should flow from love, gratitude, and a heart surrendered to Him.

A QUESTION FOR PERSONAL REFLECTION

When I give, am I responding to God with a willing and grateful heart?

Or have I allowed giving to become something driven primarily by obligation, expectation, or fear?

This message is not intended to condemn anyone's convictions or traditions.

Rather, we invite you to open the Scriptures, reflect prayerfully, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding.

May our giving always reflect the love and generosity of Jesus Christ.

Lifestylez Family Ministries
Family. Community. Unity.

20/10/2026

FORGIVENESS IS NOT THE SAME AS RECONCILIATION

COUNSELLING AND DELIVERANCE |

Have you ever struggled to forgive someone who hurt you deeply?

Perhaps you have forgiven them, but the relationship has never been the same. Perhaps others expect you to simply forget what happened and carry on as though nothing has changed.

But what does Scripture actually teach?

1. FORGIVENESS IS A CHRISTIAN RESPONSIBILITY

Ephesians 4:32 instructs us to forgive one another, just as God in Christ forgave us.

Forgiveness means surrendering bitterness, resentment, and the desire for personal revenge. It does not mean pretending that the offence never happened or declaring harmful behaviour acceptable.

2. RECONCILIATION REQUIRES MORE THAN ONE PERSON

Romans 12:18 teaches:

“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” (NKJV)

Notice the words “if it is possible”.

We are responsible for our own willingness to pursue peace, but we cannot force another person to acknowledge wrongdoing, repent, or participate in restoring a relationship.

3. FORGIVENESS DOES NOT AUTOMATICALLY RESTORE TRUST

Luke 17:3–4 connects rebuke, repentance, and forgiveness.

Although forgiveness may be extended from the heart, rebuilding trust requires evidence of changed behaviour, honesty, and accountability.

Trust that was broken over time may also need time to be restored.

4. HEALTHY BOUNDARIES ARE NOT THE SAME AS UNFORGIVENESS

You can genuinely forgive someone while recognising that certain boundaries remain necessary.

Forgiveness does not require exposing yourself or your family to continuing harm.

THE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLE

Forgiveness is something we are called to extend.

Reconciliation is something we seek wherever it is possible.

Restored trust is something that must be demonstrated and rebuilt.

Do not allow bitterness to control your heart. But do not mistake forgiveness for an obligation to pretend that everything has already been restored.

NEED BIBLICAL GUIDANCE?

At Lifestylez Family Ministries, our Counselling and Deliverance ministry seeks to provide Scripture-based guidance, prayer, and compassionate support to individuals and families facing difficult relationships.

You do not have to carry your burdens alone.

Phone/WhatsApp: 064 924 5523
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.lifestylez.co.za

Lifestylez Family Ministries
Family. Community. Unity.

19/10/2026

🌱 | Renewed Strength

“But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength.” — Isaiah 40:31 (NKJV)

There are seasons when our strength seems exhausted, when the burdens of life become heavy and the road ahead appears uncertain.

Yet Scripture reminds us that our strength does not have to come from ourselves.

Isaiah 40:31 teaches us that those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.

Waiting upon God is not surrendering to defeat. It is placing our confidence in His faithfulness, trusting His timing, and depending upon His power rather than our own understanding.

The promise is not that we will never grow weary, but that God remains our source of strength through every season.

TODAY'S ENCOURAGEMENT

Whatever you are facing, do not allow your circumstances to determine the limits of your faith. Continue trusting the Lord.

REFLECTION

Where in your life do you need to stop relying upon your own strength and begin trusting God more completely?

Lifestylez Family Ministries
Equipping believers. Strengthening families. Making disciples.

19/06/2026

Together, we can make a massive difference in our community! Lifestylez Social Care Centre is reaching out for your support to help bring hope to families and individuals in need. Whether you can give physical goods or a financial contribution, every single bit helps.

Let's put love into action together! Please share this post to help us spread the word. 💙

19/06/2026

A daily reminder to keep our focus where it truly matters. It is so easy to get distracted by the busy world around us, but true direction comes from looking up.

Let’s keep our spiritual eyes fixed on Him today. ✨