Tithing

Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”

2 Corinthians 9:6-7

MANY CHRISTIAN LEADERS preach that tithing—giving a tenth of all you earn to the work of God—is a command. However, this verse points out that you should decide in your heart what to give. You should not give under coercion or because the preacher told a sad story or because someone pressured you into it. Instead, go to God. Talk to him about your situation and what is appropriate for you to give.

Next is the test of how you should give: will you give cheerfully, or will you give reluctantly? Will you trust God’s promise to bless you for giving? Or will you become bitter and focus on what you couldn’t buy because you gave that portion to the church or a ministry?

Funny thing . . . when you give cheerfully and see God’s blessing, you get even more cheerful and want to give even more. God’s promise is never to hold back a blessing from those who truly sacrifice to meet another’s need. He will bless you not only by meeting your needs but also by giving you a joy that is incomparable.