Tithing: A Legacy of Faith
Tithing is not just an act of obedience or trust—it is a legacy. Through tithing, we create a spiritual inheritance that impacts future generations, shapes our communities, and builds God’s kingdom. While its immediate effects can be seen in the work of the church and the lives of those it serves, the true impact of tithing extends far beyond our time on earth.
In this final part of our series, we’ll explore how tithing leaves a lasting legacy of faith, instills values in the next generation, and builds an eternal heritage in God’s kingdom.
1. The Generational Impact of Tithing
1.1. Teaching Faith and Stewardship
When we tithe, we model faith and stewardship for our children and those around us. They learn to trust God by observing our commitment to His principles.
- Proverbs 22:6: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
- A family legacy of tithing instills discipline, gratitude, and reliance on God in the hearts of the next generation.
1.2. Cultivating Generosity
Tithing fosters a spirit of generosity that influences how future generations approach giving and serving others.
- 2 Corinthians 9:11: “You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”
1.3. Building Stronger Communities
When families commit to tithing, they contribute to the growth and stability of their communities through the church’s outreach and support initiatives.
2. Tithing as a Spiritual Inheritance
2.1. A Testament of Faith
Tithing serves as a visible testament to our faith in God’s promises, inspiring others to trust Him.
- Psalm 112:1-2: “Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in His commands. Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.”
- By tithing, we pass down the blessings of obedience and faithfulness to our children and grandchildren.
2.2. Storing Treasures in Heaven
Tithing is not merely a temporal act; it stores up treasures in heaven and impacts eternity.
- Matthew 6:20: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
2.3. Advancing God’s Kingdom
Every tithe supports the spread of the gospel and the work of the church, creating an eternal legacy.
- 1 Corinthians 3:6-9: “I planted the seed; Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labour. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”
3. The Eternal Rewards of Tithing
3.1. God’s Promises for Generosity
God rewards faithful giving with spiritual blessings that often extend to our descendants.
- Proverbs 11:25: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
3.2. Transforming Lives
Tithing enables the church to reach those in need, transforming lives through the gospel and practical support.
- Matthew 25:35-40: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink… Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
3.3. Leaving a Spiritual Mark
The impact of our giving reaches far beyond what we can see, touching lives and advancing God’s purposes long after we are gone.
4. Practical Steps to Build a Legacy of Tithing
4.1. Teach the Next Generation
- Include your children in conversations about tithing, explaining its importance and sharing stories of God’s faithfulness.
- Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down, and when you get up.”
4.2. Lead by Example
- Demonstrate consistent, joyful living in your own life, showing that it is a priority and a blessing.
4.3. Document Your Testimony
- Record how God has blessed you through tithing, creating a faith story for your family to cherish.
4.4. Encourage Generational Giving
- Encourage your children and grandchildren to tithe from their own earnings, fostering early habits of stewardship and generosity.
5. Stories of Tithing Legacies
A Family Transformed by Faithful Giving
One family shared how their grandparents’ commitment to tithing created a legacy of faith. Each generation witnessed God’s faithfulness and continued the practice, leading to a family united in service and generosity.
A Community Revived Through Tithes
A small church struggling financially was transformed by the faithfulness of its members. Their tithes funded outreach programs that revitalised the community, spreading God’s love to countless lives.
6. Encouragement for Future Generations
Focus on God’s Promises
Remind the next generation of God’s faithfulness to those who honour Him.
- Psalm 37:25: “I was young, and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.”
Celebrate the Joy of Giving
Encourage joyful giving by celebrating how tithing impacts lives and fulfils God’s purposes.
- Acts 20:35: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy of Faith
Tithing is not merely a financial decision; it is a spiritual investment that leaves an eternal impact. By modelling faith, teaching generosity, and building God’s kingdom, we create a legacy that honours God and inspires future generations to walk in His ways.
Key Verse:
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6
This concludes our series on tithing. May these insights encourage you to embrace the blessings of giving, trust God’s promises, and leave a legacy of faith that endures for eternity. Tithing is not about what we lose but about what we gain—a deeper relationship with God, a stronger church, and a treasure stored in heaven.