Therefore, show...the proof of your love and the reason for our pride in you, so that the churches can see it. - 2 Corinthians 8:24, NIV
The practice of tithing (giving one-tenth of your income to God's work in the local church) is not a habit learned overnight. It took Debbie and I two or three years to fully fund our tithe. We knew we wanted to tithe, but we had to step up to it since we started so far away from the 10% mark. Once we got there, we've never looked back and we always look for ways to give more.
Schnase says, "As those who consistently practice the tithe know, proportional giving (giving a set percentage of income) and tithing force people to look at their earning, saving, and spending through God's eyes. It reminds them that their ultimate worth is derived from the assurance that they are children of God, created by God, and infinitely loved by God" (19).
So let's start building some muscle memory for giving - it's the best workout you can get!
Questions for Reflection:
1) Read 2 Corinthians 8. Paul concludes by saying that our giving is proof of our love for God. Can we possibly desire God to shape our souls without giving?
2) If you practice proportional giving or tithing, does this practice affect your other spending habits?
3) If you do not practice proportional giving or tithing, what are the obstacles to a greater generosity toward God?
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