Tithing
Why do we give money back to the church? Will God truly make a way? What if I cannot afford to give 10% of my earnings each week?
While tithing is a common practice in the church today, many hesitate to take that step. These questions, though understandable, often point to deeper issues of trust and a perspective that needs to be addressed.
If we can trust God with our eternity, why not trust Him with our resources here on earth?
When we think about eternity, what can we truly take with us to Heaven? The answer is simple: nothing. All of our earthly possessions ultimately belong to God. He is our provider, and everything we have, including our finances, comes from Him.
Sienna Pastor Malcolm Marshall puts it this way: “In a culture that celebrates accumulation, the biblical practice of tithing reminds us that there is nothing we have that God did not give us.”
When we reframe tithing as “worship through giving,” it changes everything. It is no longer about obligation; it is about devotion.
Proverbs 3:9-10 (CSB) makes the connection clear:
"Honor the Lord with your substance and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine."
When we give back to the One who blessed us first, we demonstrate that our possessions do not control us. Our lives are lived for Him, and we trust that He will provide.
Brad Talbert, Married Adults Minister & The4 Venue Pastor at The Loop Campus, emphasizes this principle: “Generosity is not about duty, and God does not need our money. It flows from a love for God and for others. Tithing is an opportunity to shift our dependency from our possessions to God. Overall, it is a joyful expression of trust, not a requirement.”
Giving is not a measure of what we have, but of where our hearts truly rest. Even in difficult circumstances, God sees our hearts. Choosing to give, even when it is hard, is a powerful step of faith and obedience.
The Lord calls us to make disciples and share the good news of His love with the world. When we tithe, we are not just giving money; we are actively participating in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20 CSB). Our contributions bless the church, strengthen its ministries, and provide the resources needed to reach more people with the gospel.
Ultimately, tithing allows us to partner with God in expanding His kingdom, making an eternal impact beyond what we can see.