The Most Important Factor of All: The Tithe

Learn the supernatural element of stewardship: this is the solution to all financial problems! In last month’s article, we introduced the tithe as our “secret weapon.” Who’s in control of our finances-God or us? It’s a question of faith.

Man’s Purposes for Money

Man’s purposes for money include: 1) providing for security; 2) establishing independence; and 3) creating power and influence. These purposes may sound fine, but look who’s in control. This mind-set is based on an independence from God, not a dependence upon Him. Real financial freedom comes from realizing that true prosperity comes only from God (Deut 8:18) and committing ourselves to His purposes for money (Mt 6:30):

God’s Purposes for Money

1. Provision (1 Kgs 17:4)
2. Direction (1 Kgs 17:7)
3. Fellowship (1 Kgs 17:9)
4. Demonstration (James 5:17)

1) To Provide Basic Needs (Mt 6:26-30; 1 Tim 6:8)

1. • To establish daily dependence on Him (Mt 6:11).
2. • To deepen our love for the Lord (Col 2:10; Jn 15:5).
3. • To develop a spirit of gratefulness.
4. • To teach us to live within our means (1 Tim 6:6).
5. • To help us enjoy our possessions (Heb 13:5).

2) To Confirm Direction (Ps 37:7)

1. • To build our faith and vision.
2. • To determine who is the lord of our life (1 Tim 6:17).
3. • To protect us from harmful items (1 Tim 6:9).
4. • To teach us patience (Rom 5:3; James 1:3-4).
5. • To concentrate on true riches (Phil 3:7-8).

3) To Give to Christians (Rom 12:3)

1. • To unite Christians (2 Cor 8:14).
2. • To demonstrate the mark of a Christian (Titus 2;14; 2 Cor 9:8).
3. • To initiate spontaneous thanksgiving (2 Cor 9:11).
4. • To multiply the potential for giving (2 Cor 9:6).

4) To Illustrate God’s Power

1. • To cause Christians to trust Him (1 Kgs 18:21-40).
2. • To mock the false gods of our age.
3. • To purify our lives and motives (Ps 66:18).
4. • To bring non-Christians to salvation (Acts 5:12-14).
5. • To glorify God (Ps 50:15).