Upon graduating from college, I decided that I wanted to consistently give back by tithing. So, I did. With a very fixed income at the time, I decided that I would step out on faith and trust God. You know, it was funny, when I fell on hard times and reneged on my commitment to tithe, everything that could go right went wrong! I would owe more than I earned, my car would constantly need to be repaired, and I incurred unexpected expenses frequently. But when I recommitted to God, amazingly, my dollars would stretch and I never went without.
After learning this simple lesson early on in life, I decided to remain faithful in the area of tithing and to be a blessing to others no matter what. Years later, I have never gone one day without. This is still my testimony today!
Can you really afford to tithe?
The thought of giving up money can be very fearful. At least it was for me. I questioned whether I would be able to meet my needs. I would ask myself, “Does the concept of tithing really make sense? How could God expect me to live off of only 90% of my income?” I thought to myself, “Really God? I am barely making ends meet now!”
And I know I am not alone. When I speak to others about tithing, many are fearful that they would be unable to make it if they commit to God. But the reality is, you can’t afford not to. God tells us in His Word, “He will open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it” (Malachi 3:10).
Trust Him in advance
Deciding to trust God in your finances requires a faithful commitment to God. It means even when your change is “strange” and times are rough, you will still commit to what God has already instructed you to do.
Now listen, when you decide to tithe and really trust God, there may be distractions to get you off track. But warning – this is only a test! Stay true to your commitment and you will see God’s blessings in your life.
Really, there is no way around it. I can recall countless times being a blessing to others and within days receiving financial blessings unexpectedly. Now please understand, I do not tithe for what I can receive, but more importantly I do it out of my obedience to Him.
I know there will be many people who may think you are crazy and others who will never be able to understand it. This is why many people are more willing to give up their time but less willing to give up their money. Please know, once you make a commitment to God, He promises in His Word that He will be committed to you.
Remember: your choice, your future!
The above is an excerpt from the ebook, “Let your budget inspire you!” Kemberley Washington is the author of “21 Days of Powerful Breakthroughs!” Like her on Facebook or add her on Twitter!
