The Heart Of Giving: A Deeper Look At Tithing

Scripture:

Malachi 3:10 – "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it."

Introduction: The Farmer's Dilemma

There was once a farmer who had a habit of setting aside the first fruits of his harvest as an offering to God.

One year, the rains came late, the crops were sparse, and he found himself with barely enough to feed his family. As he stood in his barn, holding the small sack of grains he had set apart for God, he faced a dilemma: "Should I keep this for my family or give it as I always have?"

With a heavy heart but a steadfast faith, he brought the grain to the church. Months later, a stranger passing through his town stopped to thank him for his generosity, as the food donated by the church had saved his family from starvation. The farmer realized that in giving his best to God, he had unknowingly been part of God's greater plan.

I. Understanding the Controversy

Tithing is one of the most misunderstood and controversial practices in the church today.

People often ask, "Is it still required under the New Covenant?" or "Isn’t it just a way for the church to take our money?" Some even point to abuses by pastors and church leaders to justify their reluctance.

These are valid concerns, but they stem from a misunderstanding of what tithing truly represents.

1. Tithing Is About Trust. The farmer in the story trusted God, even when it seemed impractical. Tithing is not about the church's need for money; it’s about our need to trust God as the provider of all we have.

2. Tithing Is a Heart Issue. In Matthew 6:21, Jesus says, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Giving our tithe reflects where our priorities lie.

Are we storing treasures in heaven or clinging to the temporary things of this world?

II. What Tithing Is Not

1. It’s Not a Transaction.Tithing is not like paying a membership fee or a magic formula to secure God’s blessings. Instead, it is an act of worship, rooted in gratitude and obedience.

2. It’s Not a Burden. God’s intention for tithing is not to oppress us but to free us from the chains of greed and self-reliance. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul reminds us, "God loves a cheerful giver."

III. A New Testament Perspective

Under the New Covenant, we are not bound by the law but by grace. However, this grace calls us to give even more generously.

In Acts 4:34-35, the early church members sold their possessions and gave freely to meet each other’s needs. This wasn’t out of obligation but out of a deep love for God and one another.

IV. How to Approach Tithing Today

1. Start with the Right Heart

Examine your attitude toward giving. Are you giving out of love, or are you holding back out of fear?

2. Give Consistently

Set aside a portion of your income regularly as an act of worship, whether it’s 10% or another amount.

3. Be Generous Beyond the Tithe

Look for opportunities to bless others, whether through offerings, helping a neighbor in need, or supporting missions.

Conclusion:

The Farmer's Reward

Years after the farmer gave his small sack of grain, his land began to flourish in ways he never imagined. He often told others that the blessings he received were not just about abundant harvests but the joy and peace that came from trusting God.

Call to Action:

Today, God is inviting us to trust Him with what we have. Will you step out in faith, knowing that He is faithful to provide?

Remember, tithing is not about the amount—it’s about the heart. Let us give as an act of worship, trusting that God will take our little and use it for His glory.

Let us pray.

"Lord, teach us to trust You with all that we have. Help us to give cheerfully, not out of obligation but out of love. Use our tithes and offerings to further Your kingdom and to bless others. In Jesus' name, Amen."