Photo by Dario Brönnimann
In the Old Testament, the tribe of Levi was uniquely set apart to serve in the temple. Unlike the other tribes, they were not given land inheritance. Instead, they were sustained through the tithes of the other Israelites (Numbers 18:21-24). Nehemiah reaffirmed this principle when he restored the people's giving so that the Levites could return to their duties (Nehemiah 13:10-13). When God's people give, God's work advances.
In the New Testament, Jesus Himself was supported by others in His earthly ministry (Luke 8:1-3), and when He sent out the seventy-two, He instructed them not to carry extra provisions for themselves, but to rely on the hospitality of those they encountered, as “the worker deserves his wages” (Luke 10:7).
The apostle Paul thanked the church at Philippi for sharing in his ministry—not just in prayer, but also financial gifts (Philippians 4:15-19). He saw their support as “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” Though Paul often chose to support himself as a tentmaker, he made it clear that receiving support was welcome and biblical.
The principle of God’s people supporting God’s work continues today. Full-time ministry is a valid calling supported by the wider community of believers. As Christians, we are taught to offer our tithes and offerings to the Lord so that His Kingdom on earth may be advanced through the Church and missions organisations.
Today’s missionaries and many para-church full-time workers are also part of the modern-day Levites who serve and minister in God’s Kingdom. They are called to ministry, and many have to raise their own financial support through the organisations they serve. They do so by developing a team of ministry partners who give to them and pray for them.
As Christian workers/missionaries raise financial support for their work, they are extending to others, an invitation to partner them in the missionary calling. Together, we share in the joy and fruit of advancing the Gospel and building God’s kingdom (Philippians 1:3-5).
Support raising is a faith journey for the Christian worker. We look to God for His provision, trusting that, “He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24, ESV). At times, it can feel awkward to talk about our needs, facing the fear of rejection and uncertainties over how these needs would be met. In this faith journey, there will be anxious moments of trusting and waiting, but His provision has always been timely, and at times, surprising.
The next time you receive an appeal for financial support from a missionary, would you prayerfully consider being part of his or her ministry? Your partnership in giving and prayer will encourage them in their calling.
As you give, I am reminded of Paul, a missionary, writing to the church at Philippi, “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.”– Philippians 4:19, NLT
Blessings,
Lam Kok Hiang
Leadership Mentor
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