Tithing as a Test of the Heart
Tithing is more than a financial decision—it is a reflection of the heart. The act of giving demonstrates our priorities, trust, and devotion to God. It forces us to examine whether our hearts are truly aligned with His will or tethered to material possessions.
In Part Three of this series, we’ll explore how tithing tests the condition of our hearts, why it matters to God, and how it transforms our spiritual journey.
1. Tithing and the Condition of the Heart
The Bible teaches that God looks beyond outward actions to examine the motives of the heart. Tithing serves as a litmus test, revealing where our true treasure lies.
A Heart of Gratitude
Tithing is an expression of gratitude to God for His blessings. When we give, we acknowledge His provision and goodness.
- Psalm 9:1: “I will give thanks to You, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds.”
- A thankful heart sees tithing not as a burden but as a privilege to honour God.
A Heart Free from Greed
Tithing helps us resist the pull of greed and materialism, reminding us that our ultimate security is found in God, not wealth.
- Matthew 6:21: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
- Giving redirects our focus from accumulating earthly riches to storing treasures in heaven.
A Heart of Faith
Tithing reflects faith in God’s ability to provide. It challenges us to let go of fear and trust that He will meet our needs.
- Hebrews 11:6: “And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”
2. Why Tithing Matters to God
Tithing is not about the money itself but about the attitude behind it. God desires our hearts more than our offerings.
Obedience as Worship
Tithing is an act of obedience that honours God and acknowledges His lordship over our lives.
- 1 Samuel 15:22: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.”
A Test of Surrender
When we tithe, we surrender control of our finances to God, trusting Him to guide and provide.
- Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honour the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
A Reflection of God’s Generosity
God calls us to reflect His character through generosity. As we give, we become channels of His blessings to others.
- 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. How Tithing Transforms the Heart
Tithing is not only a test of the heart but also a tool that shapes and refines it. It aligns our priorities with God’s and transforms our relationship with Him.
Shifting from Ownership to Stewardship
Tithing reminds us that we are not owners of our resources but stewards of what God has entrusted to us.
- 1 Chronicles 29:14: “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from Your hand.”
Fostering Contentment
When we tithe, we learn to be content with what we have, trusting that God’s provision is sufficient.
- Philippians 4:11-12: “I have learnt to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.”
Strengthening Faith
Each act of tithing strengthens our faith, teaching us to rely on God rather than ourselves.
- Luke 21:1-4: “As Jesus looked up, He saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘Truly, I tell you,’ he said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth, but she out of her poverty, put in all she had to live on.’”
4. Common Heart Struggles with Tithing
Even the most faithful believers can struggle with tithing. Recognising these challenges helps us address them with God’s help.
Fear of Insufficiency
Many hesitate to tithe, fearing they won’t have enough for their needs.
- Matthew 6:25-26: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”
Reluctance to Let Go
For some, tithing feels like losing control, but it’s an opportunity to surrender to God’s plan.
- 2 Corinthians 9:6: “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
Doubt in God’s Promises
Doubt can creep in, causing us to question whether tithing really makes a difference.
- Isaiah 55:11: “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”
5. Practical Steps to Align Your Heart
- Pray for a Willing Spirit:
- Ask God to help you tithe with joy and faith.
- Psalm 51:10: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
- Start Small but Faithfully:
- Begin with what you can and commit to consistency, allowing God to grow your faith.
- Reflect on God’s Faithfulness:
- Keep a journal of how God provides for you as you tithe.
- Involve Your Family:
- Teach your children about tithing and involve them in the process, fostering a legacy of faith.
- Celebrate God’s Blessings:
- Recognise and give thanks for the spiritual and material blessings that come from obedience.
Conclusion: A Heart Aligned with God
Tithing is not about the money—it’s about the heart. It’s a test of our faith, trust, and priorities, and it transforms us into stewards of God’s blessings. As you tithe, you align your heart with God’s will, experience His faithfulness, and reflect His generosity to the world.
Key Verse:
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
In Part Four, we’ll explore “The Eternal Impact of Generosity,” examining how tithing advances God’s kingdom and leaves a legacy of faith. Stay tuned for more insights on the transformative power of tithing.