Most of us don’t like tests—but in Malachi 3, God flips the script. Instead of forbidding His people to test Him, He invites them to: “Test Me in this.” It’s as if God says, “Go ahead—trust Me first, and then watch what I do.” When we give God what’s first, He blesses what’s next. But when we give Him what’s left, everything else comes first. This week’s message reminded us that giving isn’t about money—it’s about mastery. Who rules our hearts? God doesn’t need our percentage; He desires our priority.

Testing God’s promise isn’t about doubting His power—it’s about deepening our dependence. The word bāḥan in Hebrew means “to examine through experience.” God doesn’t want blind obedience; He wants trust that grows through proof of His faithfulness. Every time we give first, we are declaring that God is our Provider, not our paycheck. The goal isn’t to give more out of pressure, but to grow more in trust. That’s why our next steps this week—Pray. Plan. Percentage. Progress.—move generosity from a rule to a rhythm.

What would it look like if your week reflected first things first—where worship, giving, and gratitude shaped every decision? As you revisit this Sunday’s message, let God speak again through His Word. Above you’ll find the Sunday to Monday Guide for deeper conversation in your small group or around your dinner table.