Giving is one of the key ways we worship God. Throughout scripture we see that God gave. As we seek to become more like Christ, we grow in our giving – of our time, talent and resources.
“What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me?” – Psalm 116:12
When we give of our financial resources, the funds given get partnered together allowing for God’s work to be done more effectively.
Tithe
We are stewards, not owners, of what God has entrusted to us. Therefore, tithing is bring back what is God’s to God, and he entrusts us with the remainder to use appropriately.
“A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees,
belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord” – Leviticus 27:30
Tithe literally means tenth in Hebrew. It’s the principle of giving 10% of all fruits and profits to God and thus to the church for the maintenance of its ministry. (Oxford Dictionary)
Offering
Tithing is the beginning. The teachings of the New Testament take it a step further; we are to commit ourselves totally to God.
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or
under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7