I hate the word tithe. Not because of the word itself, but because of how the culture has misused it. The word is often thrown around carelessly. When I was a young Christian, I was always told to tithe, tithe, tithe. Of course, I did it, not fully understanding why, but because it was taught as the right thing to do in the eyes of God. So, I tithed.
But when I started experiencing financial issues, I was still told to tithe, and it frustrated me. At that point, it felt foolish. I went through a period of rebellion where I decided I wasn’t going to give at all— nd I didn’t, for many years.
Over time, I realized that my issue wasn’t just about giving; it was about financial literacy. I didn’t understand how to handle money. When I turned to the Word of God, I saw that giving was good and essential, especially for advancing the Kingdom agenda. But what was the disconnect? I didn’t know how to manage what God had already given me.
I didn’t understand living within my means.
I didn’t understand saving.
I didn’t understand investing.
And I’m not alone—most people don’t.
I’m not here to blame the Church for focusing on tithing while neglecting financial literacy. I believe God has placed people in the Body who specialize in this, and many are already doing the work of teaching believers about managing their resources. But the need is still great.
One scripture that deeply resonates with me is Proverbs 3:9-10:
“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”
When I read this, I get it. God deserves the first because He gives us the power to get wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18). Giving 10% and operating on the remaining 90% is a reminder that everything we have belongs to Him.
But the story that connects with me most is found in Genesis 28:20-22. Jacob, after dreaming of angels ascending and descending on a ladder, made a vow:
“If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be my God… and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.”
Jacob’s vow feels so real and personal. He essentially said, “God, however You bless me, I’ll give You 10% of everything.” That story hit me deeply, and it shifted my mindset.
As I started learning about financial literacy, I began to balance my lifestyle. Once I understood how to live within my means, save, and invest, I could freely give not just 10%, but morebecause I wasn’t operating in chaos anymore.
I’m writing this for anyone who struggles with the concept of tithing. The issue isn’t the word itself; it’s often how it’s presented or pushed without context. But here’s the truth: God has put people in the Body to teach us how to handle our finances. If we’re willing to learn, we can do incredible things for His Kingdom.
Let’s settle up with God not just in giving but in being good stewards of all He has entrusted to us.
God Bless The Entrepreneur
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