Understanding Tithing: Giving Back to God
Tithing is an act of faith and a powerful way to acknowledge God as the source of our blessings. While many may be familiar with the concept of tithing, it’s important to understand the purpose behind it and how it impacts our lives.
What is Tithing?
A tithe is traditionally defined as a tenth of one’s income given back to God. But tithing extends beyond just income; it includes giving a portion of any blessings and increase we receive. This is a tangible acknowledgment of God’s provision and a commitment to honor Him with our resources.
Malachi 3:10 says, “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”
The Blessings of Tithing
- Acknowledgment of God’s Provision
Tithing is a way to express gratitude for the prosperity God has provided. It reflects our trust that God will continue to meet our needs and acknowledges Him as the ultimate provider of all we have. As we give back a portion of our blessings, we invite God’s continued favor over our finances and lives. - Protection and Provision
When we tithe faithfully, we invite God to rebuke the devourer on our behalf, keeping us under His divine protection. Our tithe becomes a symbol of trust in God’s ability to provide and shield us from harm. - Opens Doors to Abundance
Tithing is an act of obedience and faith that opens the door to God’s abundance. Jesus reminds us of the power of giving in Luke 6:38, which says, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.” As we honor God with our resources, He promises to bless us generously in return.
The Tithe Versus Offerings
While tithing is the standard of giving ten percent, anything less, though still a form of giving, is considered an offering rather than a tithe. Offerings are a way to go above and beyond, giving cheerfully from our hearts in gratitude.
2 Corinthians 9:7 encourages us: “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” God values the attitude with which we give, emphasizing generosity over obligation.
Biblical Examples of Tithing
Abraham tithed, giving a tenth of his possessions to honor God’s blessing upon his life (Genesis 14:20). Even without a command, Abraham’s tithe reflected a heart of gratitude and faith, setting an example for us to follow.
Tithing isn’t limited to the Old Testament. Jesus observed giving in the temple, recognizing the heart and sacrifice of the givers (Mark 12:41-44). This reminds us that tithing remains an act of faith and worship.
Practical Steps in Tithing
- Set Aside a Tenth: Commit to giving a tenth of your income or increase as a tithe. This practice aligns with biblical principles and sets the foundation for God’s blessing.
- Give with Gratitude: Approach tithing with an attitude of thanksgiving, just as God instructed the Israelites. When we give, we recognize that all we have comes from Him.
- Seek Alignment with God’s Word: Ensure your heart aligns with God’s intentions for giving. Tithing is more than a financial transaction; it’s an act of worship and obedience.
A Confession of Faith for Tithing
When giving your tithe, speak this confession as a declaration of faith:
“Lord, we come before You today to present our tithe and offering in faith. We believe Your Word, and we honor it by putting our faith into action through giving. We thank You for Your blessing, and we believe that You will fulfill what You have promised.”
Bible Verses on Tithes and Offerings
- 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: “But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.”
- Proverbs 3:9: “Honor the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.”
- Proverbs 11:24: “There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.”
By choosing to tithe, we step into a place of partnership with God, allowing Him to work through our faith and obedience. Tithing brings alignment with God’s heart and unlocks His blessings in our lives, enriching our journey of faith and drawing us closer to Him.
Living Word Christian Center 