Just the other day I read a statement from a person that talked about "the problem with tithing is...." The person was making mention that there are those who tithe money expecting to receive money in return, and that tithing was not just money, but that seems to be all that pastors focus on. There seemed to be a notion that some folk are neglecting their responsibilities (financial to their creditors) because they are giving their tithe and then having to pay their other bills with credit cards.
Tithing is, to the believer, a command that has been established from the early beginnings of creation. What are your thoughts on the notion that in this recession, one needs to hold back on their obligation to God through the tithe. Also, while I realize that tithing is not just money, but also time and talent. Where does that part of your tithe fit in?
Let's get ready to talk...and I mean talk openly about this!
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3 comments:
Great topic tonight, Pastor. For me, tithing is just a portion of what I can give back to God in all that He gives me daily. He does not ask for it all, He asks for a portion and the other 90% is mine. I didnt learn the concept of tithing until I matured in my spiritual walk and I grew in another level in Him. I transformed my mind from thinking that when I give my tithe that God will turn around and bless me with exactly what I gave to Him. NO, does not work that way all the time. Nor do I expect a blessing off my tithe. When I tithe I am already blessed, so I am not looking to receive any thing in return. What I mean is that before I get my earnings for the month, He has blessed me each and every day to report to work, provides a car for me, gives me traveling mercies to and from work, keeps me in my right mind to do the job that I have been assigned to do. He gives me ALL that I need to make the earnings that I receive from job.
Personally, I can't afford not to tithe. Even though there is a recesssion among us, I cant operate in fear. God has not given me the spirit of fear, but He has given me POWER to overcome any and all situations. He promises to supply my ALL my needs according to His riches in Glory. I dare not take what man declares (a recession) over what my CREATOR, MY PROVIDER, says.
And yes tithing involves more than just money. The time I spend with God is just as important as well as time I put in serving Him for His GLORy...not my own! I say that we as believers are not on the same level when it comes to tithing. But it does not change the fact that it is a command from God, our obligation.
Great response...the insight of tithing can only be realized when you are mature to understand exactly what you have mentioned. Those who feel like tithing is taking away from their monthly obligations forget that they don't have any obligations if God doesn't provide a job for them to do that with. It interests me and some of my brothers and sisters that are clergy, how some folk will claim and proclaim how good God has been to them, and yet don't know how to be obedient to His word!
I know that He is my provider...despite who's logo is on my paycheck...He is and always has been my provider and if you have a great provider, you listen to the commandments of the one who takes care of you!
If we are true in our worship, then your tithe won't be a problem for you....you give it just as easy as you give him praise!
The spiritually immature brings the tension associated with tithing. Those of us who tithe and give it cheerfully and non-attitudinal are indeed on a whole different level...I pray that God touch the hearts and minds of those who get tensed at giving their tithe, that He gives them clarity and understanding as to what He commands of them and that they become obedient to His word.
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