Within the practice of Christian Financial Stewardship, the tithe is often the first milestone. However, limiting our understanding of giving to a specific percentage can actually hinder the spirit of generosity God desires to work in us.
The History and Heart of the Tithe
The concept of giving ten percent (the tithe) is woven throughout the Old Testament as a way to support the priesthood and care for the needy. In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from a legalistic requirement to a heart-motivated response to grace. For the modern professional, the tithe serves as a helpful baseline, a 'training wheels' phase for a life of radical generosity.
Expanding Your Impact Zone
Once the habit of giving to the local church is established, a steward begins to look outward. This might include supporting missionaries, funding local non-profits, or even practicing 'spontaneous stewardship'—having funds set aside specifically to meet immediate needs God places in your path. This requires a sharp ability for Christian Decision Making to discern where the Spirit is leading your resources.
Avoiding Legalism
The danger of the tithe is that it can become a box to check, after which we feel we have 'paid our dues' and the remaining ninety percent is ours to do with as we please. True stewardship recognizes that the whole of our income is under God's lordship. This perspective is vital when managing lifestyle expectations. Every dollar spent on ourselves is a stewardship decision, just as much as every dollar given away.
Check the Avodah shop for journals that help you track both your financial and spiritual growth.
FAQ
Should I tithe on my gross or net income?
While people land on both sides, many stewards choose to tithe on the gross income, acknowledging God's provision before the government or other obligations take their share.
What if I am in debt? Should I still tithe?
Giving in the midst of debt is a powerful act of faith. It keeps the heart soft and reminds us that God, not our debt repayment plan, is our ultimate provider.
Can I count my volunteer time as part of my tithe?
While time is a valuable resource to steward, the biblical tithe specifically refers to financial and material resources. Both are necessary but usually serve different roles in kingdom work.
Moving beyond the tithe is not about a new set of rules; it's about a heart that is increasingly captivated by the mission of God. When we see what He is doing, we can't help but want to invest more.