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| How Important is Giving? |
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This morning I was reading Breakfast With Fred (www.breakfastwithfred.com ) and this week's topic was financial planning. I found it interesting that this man who left a vast legacy found it important to plan his giving--including a plan to give of himself, not just of his finances.
Having amassed a great deal of wealth during his lifetime, he wanted to make sure that his legacy did not include passing an inheritance that would prompt the generations behind him to live in a way that would prevent them from discovering their own potential--which he wisely regarded as important as he planned the disposition of his estate. Yet this was a man widely known for his generosity.
I also had the pleasure of meeting a highly successful entrepreneur a few months ago and was privileged to discuss with him the 'secrets to his success'. Right at the top of his list was intentional giving and lavish generosity. Every week this man has his secretary go to the bank and withdraw $500 from his personal account--in $20 bills. Everyday he makes it a point to distribute the $20 bills to strangers he meets through out course of his day. He doesn't dispense the money conspicuously, but makes sure that the recipient will feel the impact of the blessing--as from the hand of God, and not his own. He was emphatic about being a cheerful giver.
Both of these men placed tithing as their number one priority--they tithed from their personal accounts and from their businesses.
Consider this quote from the man notorious for pointing out that the true success behind Chick-fil-a was in applying biblical principals to business:
“Nearly every moment of every day we have the opportunity to give something to someone else-our time, our love, our resources. I have always found more joy in giving when I did not expect anything in return.”—Quote from "Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People" by S. Truett Cathy, published 2002.
Again, tithing and giving beyond the tithe of both his personal finances and his business profits is standard practice. He has created a legacy through applying these principles in his business that will shape leaders for generations to come.
There are so many present day examples of God blessing those who adhere to his principles regarding tithing and giving that I wonder why the church has such an aversion to being taught these principles and larger aversion to applying them--when they were obviously included in scripture for our own good.
Obviously when I say that, the examples that I have given are not of people attempting to amass wealth for the mere luxury of having wealth. Wealth has become a tool by which they have impacted many lives; they have become great examples of what wealth can accomplish when it is gained and stewarded according to biblical principals.
I often hear people say that tithing is passe' --God no longer requires the tithe. Well, I don't want to debate that point here. I would rather hear people share their stories of how they know these principles still do apply today. How important is tithing and giving to you? |
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| To add a comment to "How Important is Giving? " |
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| April 29, 2008 |
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| You asked the question, "How Important is Giving?" - Just ask Jesus. He knows about "giving" all right!
GREAT article here Birdie. Well written and thought provoking. Bless you for taking the time to share! |
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| April 29, 2008 |
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Mary-I love that saying 'You can never outgive God.' Jesus is the ultimate example of what it is to give everything!
He also taught a great deal about giving--lavish giving--giving more than your brother or sister asks for--giving it all away, and giving of yourself to others to meet every need that you see. We all have something that he has put in our hand to share, don't we? Isn't that what we're supposed to be doing? |
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| April 29, 2008 |
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Barvubuela- heehee! I just said the same thing to Paul! He posted a blog about tithing at the same time I posted this blog! (maybe the Lord is trying to teach us something today!) As money continues to dry up in this rocky economy the knee jerk reaction is to hold on to whatever you can--but personally that's never resulted in blessing for me.
My greatest blessings have come through giving with out consulting whether it was financially prudent to do it--because usually it's not! More often it is when I'm willing to let go of whatever is in my hand, that the Lord immediately replaces it or provides for a need that I have in some other way.
There have been many times when I needed to live supernaturally--you know, how can I ask God to multiply the gas in my gas tank if I have withheld my tithe? I'm sure some people would say 'why didn't you just use that money to fill your gas tank?' Well-- because I know better than to do that! The word says:
3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. 3:9 Ye [are] cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, [even] this whole nation.
I don't want to be a robber of God! I want to be blessed so I can be a blessing! I believe that comes about by being a doer of the Word:
6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
So, what do you think? |
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| April 29, 2008 |
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Gods Chosen--Yes! that's what I mean--He gives to us liberally so that we CAN share his goodness! I love that word--NOBLE--that word inspires me! To be noble; hmmmm--that requires stepping it up a notch doesn't it?
Wow--to be noble in giving! I LOVE THAT! |
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| April 29, 2008 |
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| Great one Sister!!! |
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| April 29, 2008 |
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Thanks Doyle! I know how generously you give of yourself. I constantly see you offering prayer and encouragement to others.
I've been thinking about what an example of being noble in giving would look like and I ran across this scripture just now:
All goes well for those who are generous, who lend freely and conduct their business fairly. Such people will not be overcome by evil circumstances. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly. They give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will never be forgotten. They will have influence and honor. Psalm 112: 5-9 NIV
This describes a person of high integrity; in business, in their relationship with God and with others. In generousity they have established a reputation for good deeds--and the word says that for that they are rewarded with influence and honor. The reward is not what prompts this person, it is their integrity that prompts them to do what is right for others--to give what they can to make a difference for someone else.
Well, maybe I'm just encouraging myself here--but this sounds pretty do-able to me.
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| April 30, 2008 |
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It ALL belongs to HIM anyway!!! We are just the Good stewards of what HE has entrusted to our hands. God, please forgive me when I have been unfaithful to do as you have directed.
Thanks, Birdie for posting!
Love,
Donna |
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| April 30, 2008 |
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WOW Dr.!
That's a really great analogy! Thank you for speaking out on this issue of tithing. I see many people struggling with issues other than finances--family problems, health issues, etc. At times, when people have asked me to keep them in prayer over such issues, I've asked 'do you tithe?' and often the answer is no.
As you said, tithing is the most elemental thing when it comes to serving God. If you knew a flood was coming, you'd move to higher ground because that would be the elemental thing to do to preserve your own life and well-being. To me, that's how tithing works. The storms and floods of life will come--but if I'm a tither--the Lord will see that I am protected--he has already moved me to higher ground by virtue of His promise.
So I guess the real issue is whether or not you believe God does what He says He will do. If you believed His word, why wouldn't you tithe? You have home owner's insurance don't you? And car insurance? But have you purchased God's insurance policy? Becuase that's really what the tithe is, isn't it? |
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| April 30, 2008 |
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| I suppose being a relatively young Christian rarely think of any thing as being passe'. I'm thinkin more like Holy Spirit where have you been all of my life. I checked out the Chick filet fella on Charles Stanley's In Touch. I was mighty impressed. I just was baptized last Sep. I have tithed for a few years ut there's a difference between tithing and being a tither. I went through quite a financial Valley (almost lost my house and still have a long way to go towards escaping consumer debt.) But I found mixing tithing and giving and praise helps. Whatever that means. |
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| May 01, 2008 |
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Donna- you are so right! It is all His, and if we think of it that way--it's not a stretch to think 'if all that I have belongs to Him--what would He do with it?'...and then do it.
Dave-What Truett Cathy has done with his life is quite an inspiration. He began with what was in his hand. I believe that if it truly is our heart to give back to the Lord with the same measure He has given to us (despite our human limitations) that miracles occur. Just ask any young person whose life course has been changed through Truett Cathy's foundation. Tithing, giving, praising is a great place to start! I think if you add stewardship to that equation you can change the world for someone else! Blessings to you, Brother! |
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| May 06, 2008 |
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Paul-Great points! The widow who gave all that she had is a perfect example of the heart that God blesses. She trusted more in God's ability to provide for her than in her own resources.
Dr.--Thanks for pointing that the tithe comes before the offering. I loved that the dime appeared at your feet on Sunday as you were discussing the importance of tithing. Yahveh's timing is impeccable! That was a kodak moment for real!
I've heard people say 'I put my tithe in a special account and then we give from that account as we see people with needs.' But they don't tithe into the 'church' for whatever personal reason they may have. (I'm speaking generally here--not about our church, but I have friends who have maintained that this is still acceptable) Doe anyone have any thoughts on that, is it scriptural? |
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| May 07, 2008 |
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3:7 Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept [them]. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return? 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. 3:9 Ye [are] cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, [even] this whole nation. 3:10 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]. 3:11 And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. 3:12 And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the LORD of hosts.
Thanks for clarifying that for me, Dr. !
My thought is that if your mother is in desperate need, all the more reason you should be tithing because Yahveh's blessing extends to your household. |
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| May 07, 2008 |
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| Could it be that we think tithing and giving are the same? Tithing is a form of giving, but it is the gift of a hilarious giver that pleases the Lord. Did the widow tithe when she gave her 2 mites? It is not the act or amount..it is the heart. Tithing can become cold, manipulative and automatic. God wants to be involved and as some have shared even allowed to direct where, who, and when. We are not giving for ourselves or even to simply meet a need (although that is a worthy reason), but it is through our giving to others, God receives the glory and is able to touch other's lives. That may come through a tithe, but if it comes not from the heart and the Spirit's nudging, God is not glorified. |
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| May 07, 2008 |
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Charlie--I agree with you! It is the heart attitude that matters to God. I think that you bring up a very good point about tithing--but I think that those that manipulate (on both ends--the tither and the church or ministry leaders) are far and few between--but a few get alot of bad press and that sends out the wrong message to the Body at large.
Tithing is not the same as offering although both are giving--there are tithes and then there are offerings; both are mentioned in Malachi 3. It is apparent that both are important to God.
What if, as you say The Spirit nudges me to tithe or to give an offering this week--but I don't 'feel' it next week? Isn't that the very thing He is addressing in this scripture? The people were not being faithful in their giving of tithes or offerings. Perhaps they didn't 'feel led' to give. I think that this implies that our heart should be conditioned to give at all times whether we feel led to or not--God was the one who set the standard. He said bring a tenth. As Dr. Thomas pointed out--it wasn't a suggestion.
It is a trust issue--do you trust God with what he's given you enough to release it? In Malachi 3:10God says 'test me on this issue.' If you have enough trust you could give it all! That's what we see the widow doing--we see her trusting Him with all that she has. God was glorified through her trust in His ability to meet her needs beyond the act of giving. |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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| I need some help here. Can someone give a scriptural example or passage of tithing being transferred or included in the 1st century church? I could be wrong, but I don't even recall money being mentioned anywhere in reference to the tithe. Land, seed, food, animals, etc. are mentioned. The tithe was God's practical provision for the Levitical Tribe. The other tribes had their own land allotted to them as their inheritance so from the other 11 tribes, the tithing was to support the Levites and their families (they had no land of their own). Even the Levites offered a tithe of tithe, and it was to the Lord. I see nowhere in scripture where we are to tithe to a church, individual, clergy or ministry. I still say we have intermingled the tithe and giving as being too closely related and they have never been, the tithe, offering, free will offerings, gifts are always mentioned separate. How do we justify tithing today? Giving? YES, but never under the biblical teaching of tithing. Why not just come out and say give at least 10%? By using the tithe, it puts people under obligation and stipulations that were never intended for tithing.
We do have example of "laying by", setting aside, giving AS you have prospered, etc. Where is the mention of the tithe in that way in the New Testament? Giving is from the heart, and for a Christian, something from the heart will usually involve communion with the Lord and practically meeting a need by giving joyfully. Perhaps 10% is a starting place, but it's not the scriptural meaning of the tithe.
I am open to correction. I know this is a touchy subject. If I was too harsh or in error, please let me know. |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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| The Levites served in the priesthood, in the tabernacle/temple ministry for the Lord. Since this was their occupation and they had no other income, they lived off the "tithe" of those they ministered to. The modern equivalent would seem to be our pastors, reverends, etc. whose occupation is ministering in the church, and who live off the tithes/offerings of the church attendees. While I don't see a specific requirement taught in the NT to tithe to the church, I also don't see the OT concept of tithing specifically abolished either. Seems to me the principle stands, even if the requirement isn't specifically repeated in the NT. |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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| This was a gret blog Birdie! Please forgive me, you said the purpose wasn't to get into the whole tithing debate! There are many benefits of giving...some I have realized, some I have yet to realize. My favorite verse when it comes to giving: "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand." (1 Chron 29:14) With this in mind, how can we justify withholding ANYTHING, including a paltry 10%? |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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I don't wanna bring this to debate status either, but no I see no reference in the NT to tithe. It just sounds like we are using tithing AND giving as the same and they are NOT and were not in the OT either. Tithing is mentioned along with offerings, gifts, etc. Yes, tithing is a form of giving, so whoever wants to tithe, go for it. God sees the heart. I just don't think we have scriptural ground to teach tithing to church or anything, anyone as anything as fitting the example of God's intention for the tithe.
I am not opposing others tithing, but I do question it being taught today and totally overlook it's original purpose and God's design and then force it to fit the 1st or 21st century church. How does/can it fit?
Somebody hep me! ;-) |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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Hey saints, I just wanna say I'm sorry if I hurt anyone's feelings or offended any. It's time for me to practice what I "preach." Our basis of fellership is not in always agreeing. I'm glad we have the liberty to share our hearts, and no one needs to feel like we are obligated to convince or change anyone. That's not our job :). We should be about encouraging and building up one another, not dividing or choosing up sides.
I have enjoyed the dialogue and I know everyone here loves the Lord. I know God HATES sewing discord among the brethren (and sistren) so I will continue to read and learn. Thank y'all for being patient and kind to me. May others learn from such an example of love toward one another. |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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Dennis- I'm sorry but my blog is not the place to be rude and disrespectful to my Pastor. You have done it many times on his blogs and he has let it stand--but I will not. I deleted your comment. I pray Dennis, that God will give you the desires of your heart in full measure.
Charlie- Thanks for sharing your heart. I agree with you to a certain extent. The heart of the giver is the fundemental element, and many times in the New Testament Jesus taught that the heart of the giver should not be limited to rote pratices--but should extend well beyond what was the common pratice of that day.
Using Christ's example and teachings, the first century church lived a more communal existence. They brought ALL that they had to the community of saints, they liquidated their assets so that all were equally cared for and contributing to the welfare of the community as a whole. Honestly, I see very few 21st century Christians in America upholding the patterns of the first century church. The didn't give 10%, they gave 100%.
And let's not forget Ananias and Saphira--who lied to protect their own interests in the matter of giving and were struck dead by the Holy Spirit. They could have walked in and truthfully said 'We sold our land and we're willing to give 50% of the profit to the church. But because they did not agree with the new standard and chose to with hold what they felt was appropriate--and then lied so as not to have to explain their decision, they died instantly. Their greed did them in--let's not just pass over that example. Personally, I love the concept of the communal first century church and I'm sorry that it is not widely practiced today.
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| May 08, 2008 |
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Yup, those percentages can get us in trouble. But, they can also give us guidelines to test the Spirit. I personally think 10% is a good starting place as some have said. However, my conviction AT THIS TIME is that is not the same as the tithe. I fully agree and practice being a cheerful giver as God gives direction.
Someday, I would like to ask the Lord about Ananias and Saphira. That seemed a bit harsh, but God sees the heart. May we all stand in holy fear of that.
I hope I didn't incite others to speaking forth rude comments. I in NO WAY see tithing as witchcraft. |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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Barvubuela- Thank you for sharing that story about your employee. God will honor his obedience and trust and as he begins to see the blessings that arrive on the heels of such trust it will deepen his walk of faith.
Mike--You make some good points about the correlation between the Levitical Priesthood and the modern church system. It is the tithe and the offerings that sustain the House of God today--the buildings where we gather--and those called/appointed to minister the Gospel to the people.
I was reading a letter from Paul the other day where he felt compelled to defend his position as a full time minister of the Gospel, not employed outside of the ministry he was called to establish. Apparently, even in his day there was much rhetoric about who was entitled to be provided for by the church.
Paul--Thanks for bringing up that the tithe began before the law was given. Abraham began the tithe when he brought out his portion to Melchezidek (a tenth) which is also mentioned in the book of Hebrews Chapter 7--the entire chapter is devoted to explaining the order of Melchizedek and his relationship to Christ--thus the relinquishment of the Levitical Priesthood and establishing a new order--in like manner.
The new testament priniciple then of continuing the practice of the tithe would be that Melchizedek accepted and blessed the tithe of Abram--and the new order was established in like fashion. So what began in Genesis is not contradicted in the new testament--rather it is affirmed in Hebews Chapter 7.
14:18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God. 14:19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed [be] Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: 14:20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.
Charlie, maybe that will answer your question. |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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| Charlie--You did not incite that rude comment, and your comments have added much to a lively discussion. Thank you for your heart, my brother! I don't think you were inferring or agreeing that tithing is witchcraft. :) I appreciate your comments here and please know that you are welcome to offer your insights and opinions. |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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Give and shall be given to you pressed down shaking together and running over. Freely you have received freely give. As a Christian giving should be as natural as breathing. Jesus has given us so much and The Father has given us everything why not freely bless others with what we have been blessed with? There is a Proverb that sums up what you have shared: Proverbs 11:24-25
"There is one who scatters, yet increases more; And there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty. The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself." |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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Brother Todd--That is a beautiful example from the scriptures! Thank you for sharing that. Time and again, the scriptures echo the blessings of God that come to those who are of a generous spirit.
I agree with what you said, and it bears repeating; 'As a Christian giving should be as natural as breathing.' |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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| Excuse me for asking, but is that referring to offering/giving or tithing? |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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Charlie--If I'm understanding your question--the scripture Brother Todd shared, as I read it, refers to neither--but addresses the heart that God blesses along with the reprecussions (the natural consequence) of greed.
Is that what you were asking? |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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As far as I am concerned that tithing is giving while giving may not be tithing. We are not under the law, but tithing is a principle that God honors. The new testament example for giving is giving sacrificially, giving cheerfully, giving regularly, and giving in alms to the poor. This can be accomplished through a systmatic giving to the house for which you are affiliated. Charlie I agree with you that tithing is a good starting point, but tithing is not even an issue. Give as the Lord leads and be obedient to the Spirit. But for the Christian to give less than "what is right" is sin. For him to know to do right and do it not to him it is sin. Peter told Annanias and Saphire that as long as the money was in your possesion was it not your own to do with as you saw fit (Todd's pharaphrase) we are stewards of all that God has entrusted to us. We do not own any of it, it all belongs to Him. We are merely stewards of the resources God gives us whether is be time, moeney, influence, skills, etc...but all belongs to Him, but He allows us to manage it. If we want to sow sparingly then we will reap sparingly. We are to give in the measure of our faith. Little faith little giving bigger faith bigger giving. I tithe and I give offerings. I do stuff for the church and if I can afford it I will not ask the church to reimburse me I give of my time and my giftings. When he church attempts to pay me to preach I give it back as an offering. I tell them that I should pay them for the opportunity to preach. I look at it as a way of blessing the ministry. If we ever look at giving as something we have to do, it takes all the pleasure out of it from God's perspective. He wants us to give in accordance to our faith, and our love for Him.
Now I saw your comment about where in the NT does it say tithing? Well it depends if you consider the gospels New Testament or not. But Jesus commended the Pharisees for tithing off of the mint and the rue. These things you should have done with out leaving the other undone.
Anyway, I would advise taking the spirit of which these message was intended and not strain at a gnat for we all know that it is more blessed to give than receive. |
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| May 08, 2008 |
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| Recieved and noted. Thank you. |
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| May 09, 2008 |
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| Dr. Thomas--Thank you for sharing more! I never thought about 'what is the blessing that cannot be contained?' until you mentioned that it is His glory. Your right sir! We can contain so much--but never that! That is awesome! |
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| May 09, 2008 |
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awesome post! I use to give and give and give, forgetting about me.
Today I know it is from my heart that I give to others.
I joined the caring team at church , we go and sit with the shut ins, go to nursing homes and sit with them etc. I just joined and can't wait to go visit. I have my list right here and plan to visit a lady tomorrow.
My dad, even though our relationship was not healthy, good, He was and still is a giving man, which I see I learned through him
I learned through reading the word more about giving of oneself.
Not being that selfish person I use to be.
Mothers day is an example, I alwasy said I just want us to be together as a family, I dont need gifts & cards, but the truth was i wanted them material things. I will be seeing my sons Sunday for and dont expect anything, just to be with them and hug them and let them know how much I love them and proud of them
OK I hope I didnt remable on to ,much LOL
MY Pray list gets longer each day!!
God Bles Love & Hugs Donna
“Tithing is about putting God first in your life. Put God first in your life, and you can count on God doing His part.” |
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| May 09, 2008 |
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Donna--I'm a huge supporter of giving yourself away!
I strongly admire you for getting on board with your church's care team. I have another friend that does that and she LOVES it and feels that it is not only the most meaningful mission field she has ever entered, but it has also filled a void in her life that she didn't know was there until she started visiting the nursing home.
For those who may not be sure what they have to give others, here's a few suggestions .
I love your quote too!
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| May 09, 2008 |
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Paul--Thank you for pointing out some very interesting things to consider as we study the Word about how we are to steward our finances in order to please God rather than ourselves. I love that your intentions are to edify others, and I agree with you whole heartedly.
I find it interesting that no one has disputed the case for tithing based on any particular passage of scripture --after all, as you said sometimes we err out of not being taught. We can fall into a danger zone when we read between the lines and come to our own conclusions.
On the otherhand, many scriptures supporting the principle of tithing have been presented here, along with other very encouraging remarks--about that being the jumping off place to take God at His word literally and as he says, 'prove Me in this.'
My life is completely different now based on these principles. I recently shared with someone that nothing bad ever happens to me. It may look like bad things are coming my direction--but God always turns the storms. ALWAYS! I know that this is not because I'm special--it's because he rebukes the devourer on my behalf--just as he promised to do. I take great comfort in knowing that His promises are true--and yes! There are blessings and curses--I have walked in the curses and now I walk in the blessings. I applied the principles of the WORD and the results were amazing!
Your heart for the brethren is evident, my brother--and a blessing in it's self! |
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| May 09, 2008 |
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Amen to giving. I think tithing and giving is "showing God how much we love and respect Him"...
it's a way of life, and a great way of life at that.
You get to the point you don't realize that you're doing it. I think that's the way God would want it. Give with one hand, but don't let the other hand know that you did it.
Bless you!
Joey |
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| May 09, 2008 |
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Amen, Joey! If it's your mindset to be a giver--like Charlie said we can be hilarious givers! Why be contemplative givers--when it's just so much more fun to be an extravagant giver? |
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