Tithing & Giving: Where Are We Now?

Because we now have a new nature, we don't need a reason to give (motivation); we give because that IS our nature! For God so loved, He gave! Giving allows God's nature, His Life to flow through us. But some may say, "But if I don't tithe, will God take care of me? I mean, why should He???" This is probably at the root of why tithing is such an issue. We still find it so hard to comprehend that the God of the universe loves us so much that there is nothing He requires of us but to accept His love. He provides for us because He loves us.

CONSEQUENCES (Why Is This So Important?)

Matter of Control

How much, when and to whom we give of our resources, our time and our money, is often one of the ways we gain or maintain control. We try to control God, thinking that if we give we can get God to take care of us. We control others, thinking that if we give to a church, ministry or person, we should have some say in how the money is spent, or have a say in how they live their lives. But none of these are examples of giving, but of manipulating. In true giving, money (time, goods, services, etc.) are given unconditionally, with no strings attached.

Believers Not Learning How to Hear the Lord

We are sons of the King, which makes us all princes, who have access to our inheritance, which is the kingdom. Now princes aren't on the payroll of the kingdom; they've inherited the kingdom itself, and all its riches. So everything in the kingdom is at their disposal. Recognizing our immaturity, God has authorized His Holy Spirit, inside of us, to teach us to rule wisely, in dependence upon Him. And He does all things well!

In Old Testament times, the tithes and offerings paid for government services and every need of society. Today, we pay taxes for these necessities.