“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” Matthew 25:21

Jake tapped his pencil as he leaned in toward the computer screen. A new year—and time to calculate his taxes. But another urge tugged at his heart. It was also time to reevaluate the amount he would give to church. Could he up the percentage closer to the goal of a tithe? Not with a mortgage, two cars, the kids’ college fund, the rising prices of groceries…. Still, he wanted to give his fare share to God.

Have you been there? Discussions happen every year surrounding the tithe. Is it an Old Testament law only, or do Christians have to obey it as well? Scholarly debates and writings have filled volumes on the subject over the centuries.

However, if as a believer I acknowledge that all is from God, then does any of it really belong to me, or is it all on loan? In Matthew, Jesus told the parable of the servants who were each given a talent (a coin of that age, but does it not also translates into our gifts from the Spirit?) It was loaned to them to make use of it. So it is the same with everything my Lord gives me, from my health to my wealth. I strive to give Him a monetary ten percent because it is a discipline, reminding me that He really is over-gracious in allowing me use the other ninety percent. All I know is that when I do, His blessings return many times over.

Father God, help me remember that everything I have is from You. Keep me from mistakenly thinking I have earned any of it apart from Your power. This year, remind me to give back to You in obedience and discipline, grateful for the blessings You have bestowed through Your Son my Savior. Amen.

Take Action

When you get a pay check or some unexpected money, prayerfully thank God for all He has given you before you spend any of it. Ask Him how to spend it best. 

Read the hard lesson Claire learned about tithing.



Tags: entrusted stewardship