The tithing thing (3)

We've learned that Abraham and Jacob gave because they met with God. Some time after this, God gave the law to Moses, which is where we'd expect to find actual rules on tithing. In Leviticus 27, there's a detailed list of the tithes God expected from his people at that time. But, the list is not a straight 10% of their income. From reading Leviticus 27, it's more likely that at least 20% of the Hebrew people's property and food-produce was given away in a tithe. This changed from year to year, as different laws cycled in and out over different periods. The one thing that stands out, though, is this: it wasn't about percentages; tithing was about making sure everyone was looked after. Tithes went to widows, priests and travellers - to help them survive.

Actually, there really isn't that much difference between those old-time tithes and what's expected of us now. It's still not about percentages. Check out Acts 2:45 CEV: '[The Christians] would sell their property and possessions and give the money to whoever was in need.' God's tithing model is to use what we have to look out for those with need. This kind of tithing throws the whole 'formula' thing out the window.



So what now? Instead of only thinking about 10%, ask God what he wants of you. Ask him to point you to an act of practical giving today, regardless of whether it was what you expected to give or not.





— SCRIPTURE —

'They would...give the money to whoever was in need.' Acts 2:45 CEV
— SOULFOOD —

Acts 20-21, Matt 5:6-12, Ps 144:9-15, Pro 11:12-13