“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:9
The essence of the tithe (meaning 10%) is that it is first an act of worship to God. It is God-directed before it is need-centered. Before it is a humanitarian act of mercy (and it is that!), the tithe is act of worship and sacrifice to God. St. Augustine taught that the tithe is the starting point of giving for Christians – and then aim for more. So then how much is the right amount? I like the counsel of two of my heroes in the faith.
“Give until it hurts.” – Mother Teresa
“The only safe rule is to give more than we can spare.” – C.S. Lewis
Actually, I am not so sure I “like” what they say, but their words are true just the same. God gives us the command of the tithe as a gift, out of his love. It is a remedy for the cruel spirits of hoarding, insecurity, and fear. As we purge our souls of avarice, clutching, and anxiety, God enters to fill the void. He loves us! Will we honor God above our vanity, above our worries? Giving “till it hurts” is the medicine we need to free our souls from the bondage to things.
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