PRAISE & PRAYER PROMPT ••• Our local Christian radio station just completed their annual fundraising campaign.
My husband and I haven’t tithed to their ministry before but earlier this week, I called and committed a monthly gift from our tithing budget.
The campaign ended yesterday and this morning, they announced they raised 80% of their goal.
I know that God will use these gifts, but of course, when goals are set, we always want to meet or exceed them.
Tithing is one of those things that makes people nervous.
I was raised by parents who tithed and my mother always cut a check to the church before she paid any other bill.
Yet, even with her example, it took me a long time to start tithing myself.
I didn’t think I could afford it.
When I started tithing, it certainly wasn’t 10%.
The Holy Spirit finally got through my thick skull, and I realized these truths:
- God doesn’t need my money; it’s already His.
- Tithing is based on trust—a physical action and deliberate choice to trust in God’s provision.
- Tithing is a form of worship.
We tithe 10% of the gross of everything we earn now.
Most of it goes to our church, and the rest, we divide up between a couple of other ministries.
And you know what—we’ve never not had enough to pay the bills.
Some argue that the concept of a 10% tithe is Old Testament law and no longer applies.
I disagree.
The percentage point may be subject for debate and that’s between you and God.
But we are still called to give.
In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul wrote, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
For those who think they can’t afford it, I’d challenge you to look at your spending habits.
Years ago, when I didn’t think survival was possible without a daily Starbucks latte, I spent a ridiculous amount of money on fancy coffee drinks.
Trust me—I could have easily tithed and still been able to budget for coffee.
I wish I could turn back time and redirect all that money.
I don’t remember the coffee but I would have memories of giving.
There are so many amazing ministries doing amazing things for God.
They are helping others by being the hands and feet of Jesus.
They need my money so much more than Starbucks!
And giving to them makes us feel like we’re a part of it, making our own small contributions to these incredible programs.
Today, as you pray, thank God for His provision.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you trust God with the money you give back to Him.
And pray for Christian organizations who do so much for the Kingdom and rely on donations and gifts in order to continue their ministry.
Pray for ways you can give.
