Trusting God with What You Have
Tithing is not just an act of obedience—it is a profound demonstration of trust in God. It requires faith to give away a portion of what you have, especially when faced with financial uncertainty. Yet, the Bible consistently emphasises that God is faithful to provide for His people when they honour Him with their resources.
In Part Two of our series, we’ll explore how tithing builds trust in God, the blessings that follow, and practical steps to grow in faith through this spiritual discipline.
1. Trusting God as the Ultimate Provider
Acknowledging God’s Ownership
Everything we possess ultimately belongs to God. Tithing is a way of recognising His sovereignty over our resources.
- Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”
- When we tithe, we affirm that God is the source of all our blessings and trust Him to sustain us.
Breaking the Fear of Lack
One of the greatest obstacles to tithing is the fear of not having enough. However, the Bible assures us that God will provide for those who trust Him.
- Matthew 6:31-33: “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Faith Over Finances
Tithing is an act of faith that declares our reliance on God rather than our own efforts or material wealth.
- Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
2. God’s Promise of Provision
The Invitation to Test God
Tithing is one of the few areas in which God invites us to test His faithfulness.
- Malachi 3:10: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”
The Abundance of God’s Blessings
When we tithe, God promises to bless us abundantly—not always in material wealth, but in spiritual growth, peace, and joy.
- 2 Corinthians 9:8: “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
3. Tithing in Times of Financial Struggle
Faith in Scarcity
The widow of Zarephath is a powerful example of trusting God in the face of scarcity.
- 1 Kings 17:13-14: “Elijah said to her, ‘Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land.’”
- Despite having very little, the widow obeyed and trusted God, and He miraculously provided for her needs.
God Multiplies What We Give
Jesus demonstrated how even a small offering, when given in faith, can be multiplied to meet greater needs.
- John 6:9-13: “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were seated as much as they wanted; they gathered twelve baskets with the pieces that were left over.”
4. The Spiritual Impact of Tithing
Deepening Our Faith
Tithing helps us grow in faith by teaching us to depend on God for our daily needs.
- Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
Strengthening Our Relationship with God
Tithing is a tangible expression of our love and commitment to God. It shifts our focus from material concerns to eternal priorities.
- Matthew 6:19-20: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
5. Practical Steps to Trust God Through Tithing
- Pray for guidance:
- Begin with prayer, asking God to strengthen your faith and guide you in your giving.
- James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
- Start Where You Are:
- If tithing 10% feels overwhelming, start with a smaller percentage and gradually increase as your faith grows.
- Be Consistent:
- Set aside your tithe first, treating it as a priority rather than an afterthought.
- Reflect on God’s Faithfulness:
- Keep a record of how God provides for your needs, and celebrate His blessings.
- Give Cheerfully:
- Approach tithing with a joyful heart, knowing it pleases God.
- 2 Corinthians 9:7: “God loves a cheerful giver.”
6. Testimonies of Trust Through Tithing
The Widow’s Story
A widow shared how tithing transformed her faith during a time of financial struggle. Despite limited resources, she trusted God with her tithe, and He provided for her through unexpected blessings.
A Businessman’s Journey
A Christian entrepreneur committed to tithing on his business profits. As he remained faithful, he saw his business flourish beyond his expectations, allowing him to support ministries and missions worldwide.
Conclusion: Trusting God with Your Tithe
Tithing is not merely about giving money—it is an act of trust that acknowledges God as our provider and sustainer. It teaches us to rely on His faithfulness rather than our own efforts and strengthens our relationship with Him.
Key Verse:
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” – Malachi 3:10
In Part Three, we’ll delve into “Tithing as a Test of the Heart,” examining how our giving reflects the condition of our hearts and aligns our priorities with God’s will. Stay tuned for deeper insights into this vital spiritual discipline.