Living Translation: Malachi 3:10
"Bring the full tithe to the storehouse so there’s enough food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord of Hosts, and see if I won’t open the floodgates of heaven and pour out a blessing so vast you won’t be able to contain it."
Fictional Narrative Writing Prompt: The Tithing Test
Setting: A futuristic city where technology and spirituality intertwine. A massive central congregation hub known as The Storehouse serves as both a sanctuary and a resource center for the community. Each of the main characters has a unique role within this society.
Characters:
- Jasmine: A visionary leader advocating for community support and mutual growth.
- Lisa: A resource strategist who manages the supplies and distribution of goods within The Storehouse.
- Bruce: A skeptic who questions the value of tithing and remains focused on tangible results.
- Charlie: A believer in the benevolence of the system, he works as a spiritual guide for the townsfolk.
- Shawn: An ambitious entrepreneur who seeks to profit from the community’s resources but struggles with his moral compass.
Prompt Directions:
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Introduce the Conflict: Begin with a community meeting at The Storehouse where a new tithing initiative is being proposed. Jasmine passionately speaks about the benefits of collective giving, while Bruce challenges the idea, insisting on accountability and results rather than faith.
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Character Dynamics: Showcase the relationships between the characters. Lisa is caught in the middle, balancing resource management while trying to prove the benefits of community support. Charlie encourages Shawn to look beyond profit, pushing him to consider the greater good of tithing.
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The Test of Faith: Have the characters face a challenge that threatens the viability of the Storehouse. Maybe a shortage of supplies or an external threat that tests their faith in each other and the community system. Each character must choose whether to uphold their beliefs about tithing or revert to self-interest.
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Climactic Decision: Build towards a pivotal moment where the characters must act on their beliefs. Will they come together to contribute what they can, even if it means personal sacrifices? This moment can echo the Malachi 3:10 lesson of faith, testing their willingness to trust in divine provision.
- Resolution: Conclude with the outcome of their decision. Did they experience the "floodgates of heaven"? How did their community, faith, and personal aspirations evolve from this experience? Reflect on lessons learned about sacrifice, unity, and the meaning of abundance.
Use this narrative prompt to explore themes of faith versus doubt, community support, and the weight of personal choices within a shared purpose.
