Tithing: Is it really for me?

Thursday, January 22nd,2009
2. Tithing

Response to Article on Tithing:

I am truly amazed at the fuss that Christians have with tithing. Truly what put the whole thing to shame were the swindlers, the cheats, and the crooks in the church. People no longer trust that their money is going to “the Lord.” Another dangerous mindset that seeps into their subconscious and belief is that there is no need to give a set amount, just give when you are able to. Isn’t that our generation? Aren’t we just so coddled and given so much grace that we are told…’Give when you are able, just as long as you are giving.’ We are told that at school, work, and at home by our teachers, bosses, and parents. Rules are not enforced. Rules should be done away with in the first place, because rules are restricting! Rules to not give us freedom, they enslave us! What a lie from the pit of hell! God has ordained certain “rules” but they are not to enslave us but to free us.
People find tithing too unrealistic when it comes down to it. It may work for some people, but not all. There are bills that need to be paid that come before tithing. If finances are looking good for the month, then they will tithe. Money is viewed as something they have earned rather than something God has provided for them.

My husband and I tithe 10% or more regularly. I can attest to the freedom that comes in that. Not to go with the prosperity gospel angle, but God sure does bless you! Not in terms of giving you all the riches in the world…but true blessings that I know would have been missed out on if we had not tithed. Christians should not see tithing as something to check off on your “Christian” to-do list, rather see and know that tithing provides a grace-empowered life. Tithing is not a burden, it is a blessing. Tithing is not called for some believers, it is called for all.

Times are tough right now in our economy. Worry is rising and trust is lowering. It is in these times that we must remember that Christ is faithful. It is in these times we must know that God is Sustainer and Provider. Just as God provides the birds in the sky with food and dresses the lily of the fields, so much more that He will provide for you (Matthew 6:25-34); The problem is not tithing, the problem is that control we want to have in our life—control over providing for our family, ourselves, and others….yet, God is who gives all we have to begin with. What we must realize is that nothing is truly ours and it never will be. There should be a relief in that truth—we do not have to do this all on our own!

-Kelly Jones