Tithing, it's one of those controversial subjects in the Church. Pastors dislike teaching on it. It's an uncomfortable subject. In the 15 years we attended Calvary Chapel, I can only remember one time Pastor Robert actually "solicited" funds. That was during the building expansion project. He was very uneasy about bringing up the subject, and was relieved once his "presentation" was over. Of course he taught on tithing but not as a strong arm tactic to get funds. Calvary's belief was "If the Lord guides, the Lord will provide."
The church we attend now has had some financial concerns. It was discovered a former employee had been embezzling for several years before retiring. This discovery set off a chain reaction that will be felt by the entire church body for years to come.
The first time tithing is mentioned in the Bible is in Genesis.
Genesis 4:3-5 NLT
3 When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the LORD. 4 Abel also brought a gift—the best of the firstborn lambs from his flock. The LORD accepted Abel and his gift, 5 but he did not accept Cain and his gift.
Are your gifts acceptable to the Lord? Do you give of your first fruits or from what's left over? Maybe not at all? That's between you and the Lord.
There is so much more to say on this subject but I'll save that for next time.
Proverb 3:9-10 NLT
9 Honor the LORD with your wealth
and with the best part of everything you produce.
10 Then he will fill your barns with grain,
and your vats will overflow with good wine.
Blessings, Cecilia
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