Since I'm Christian, I do believe on tithes and I'm practicing it, not because my religion dictates me, but because it belongs to God. Tithing may sound easy for you but honestly, you can't do it if the Lord is not with you.
When I was still one of the children attending Sunday school, I don't understand what is the essence of offering. Sometimes a give but most of the time I don't, even though my parents gave money for offering. To the extent that I even lied to my parents saying that I gave the money for offering but the truth is I did not, instead I used it to buy toys or snacks.
That time, my mother and my sister were very active in the church. I remember my sister would ask me to give any amount of money for offering like for example, P0.50. So, I did; I put P0.50 on the offering basket then next Sunday, I saw my name in the Liturgy/Program. It was fun for me seeing my name in the Liturgy together with other people who also gave their offering. However, still it doesn't make sense why I'm doing it.
When I became youth and active in our church, somehow I understand the essence of offering and tithes. It was intended for church activities, fund, church workers salary, repairs, and other church related support.
I love my church that's why I give offering. Even so, still I feel that there's something missing that I need to accept and understand.
Tithe - Sometimes, tithes. the tenth part of agricultural produce or personal income set apart as an offering to God or for works of mercy, or the same amount regarded as an obligation or tax for the support of the church, priesthood, or the like. Dictionary.com
Imagine letting go of the 10% of your income (salary) without return. Thinking that I might use it for the coming days. Tithing becomes struggle for me. Moreover, I'm not convinced that the church is not properly utilizing my tithes. I may be able to give tithes, but I know for sure that I'm not giving it wholeheartedly. For the sake that I'm into a religion that encourages giving tithes (but we are not forced to do it).
Since I started to be employed, the salary that I'm receiving was just enough for my lifestyle. I'm happy and enjoying my social life. So, what is missing?
It was three or four years ago. I realized what's missing? I don't know what happened to me, but when I woke up that morning I said to my mom that from this day I will start tithing. Basically that's what happened to me.
I started tithing again with no questions or hesitations, I came to realize that I had two failed relationships that took almost ten years of my investments (time, money and effort) then I remember the famous Bible verse about tithing 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.
Now I know for the fact that I'm religiously tithing, and ask myself why I shouldn't hesitate to ask the Lord what I need?
One night I prayed, letting my heart speak to the Lord what it desires. Tears flow in my eyes hoping God would hear my cry.
What's happening to my life right now is the result of my reverence to God and the little amount of tithe which I owe it to Him. For He is so good that He never left me even to the worst part of my life.
Believe it or not, my wife and I may not have savings for a certain period but we make sure we have tithes.
If you have questions, read your Bible; God will answer all your questions.
"Read your Bible, pray everyday, And you'll grow, grow, grow"
To God be the glory. God bless...
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Thank You and God bless.
Very well said.. Praise God! :)
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