First Principle of Tithing

The book of Deuteronomy is a treasure trove of life lessons. We have clear teaching about tithing also in Deuteronomy.  Many teach that we have to tithe expecting a return, like sowing a seed.  People are encouraged to say that God blessed them with a big house when they contributed money for a church or ministry!  They are basing their teaching on Malachi 3:10. The Bible says the heavens declare the glory of God.  Have you ever wondered what declares the nature of God? The Bible! The Bible teaches us that God is not only loving, but He is also a consuming fire. Malachi 3:10 teaches God is no man's debtor.  We understand God and His attributes only through the Bible! 

We have first to understand the purpose of tithing before we get to the principle of tithing. The Bible says, "The purpose of tithing is to teach you always to put God first in your lives”(Deuteronomy 14:23 Living Bible ).  When we give God His tithe, it is a sign that we trust and believe in Him.  It is an act of faith, and without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:4, 6). Secondly, when we bring the best to God, we honour Him, the giver of our blessings. The Bible says, "Honour the Lord with thy substance and with the first fruits of all thine increase " (Prov. 3:9). Thirdly, it is not about what we give, but it is all about the reason why. Giving to God is not a business proposal wherein I invest one thousand rupees and expect a return of ten thousand rupees! The tithe is an expression of our love for God because everything we have has been given to us only by God.  

The first principle of tithing is, "From what the LORD your God has blessed you with, you shall give to him" (Deuteronomy 15:14). Tithe has to be given from what God has given us already, our harvest, our salaries or our business income, and so on.  This is the fundamental principle of tithing!  When we give instead of hoarding, it expresses our faith. When we provide for the ministry, the poor, and the needy God sees our thankful heart.  Tithing or giving should be our response to the Lord, who is the giver of everything!

My friend, our intentions matter to God.  Do not make tithing a business.  Let it be the response of our thankful hearts!

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