Cheerful Giving Transforms Lives

Have you ever wondered about tithing and giving? You may have heard different opinions or teachings about it. Let's take a closer look at what the Bible says.

In Matthew 23:23, Jesus addressed the scribes and Pharisees, commending them for tithing but rebuking them for neglecting justice, mercy, and faith. This shows that tithing was recognized even before the time of the law. Abram and Jacob practiced tithing centuries before the law was given. Tithing is a biblical principle that spans beyond the Old Testament law.

However, the New Covenant brought a change in our perspective on giving—the motive behind our giving matters. In the Old Testament, there were punishments for those who failed to tithes, and people gave out of debt and obligation. But Jesus redeemed us from the curses of the law, including the curse of not tithing. We are no longer under compulsion or fear of punishment.

The apostle Paul emphasized that our giving should be motivated by God's kind of love, not reluctance or necessity. God desires us to be cheerful givers who give willingly and joyfully, without fear or compulsion. Our giving should flow from a heart that desires to bless others and honor God.

So, should we still tithe? Yes, tithing and giving are still part of the New Testament doctrine. The difference lies in the motive behind our giving. God delights in our cheerful and voluntary giving. When we give with joy and love, we align ourselves with God's heart and experience the blessings that come from a generous spirit.

Today, let's reflect on our attitude toward giving. Remember, God loves a cheerful giver. Let's be generous and joyful in our giving, knowing that as we bless others, we also receive blessings from our Heavenly Father.