Trusting God with Your Firstfruits

Proverbs 3:9-10 says, "Honor 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." Tithing—giving the first 10% of your income to God—is an act of worship and trust. It acknowledges that everything we have comes from Him and helps advance His kingdom. Whether you're new to tithing or looking to renew your commitment, this guide will help you take that step of faith.

Why Tithing Is Important

Biblical Command
- Malachi 3:10 says, "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."
Develops Trust in God
- Tithing teaches us to rely on God’s provision rather than our own resources (Matthew 6:33).
Supports God’s Work
- Your tithe helps fund the local church’s mission to spread the gospel and serve the community (2 Corinthians 9:12).

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Tithing

Pray for Guidance
- Seek God’s wisdom and ask Him to prepare your heart for this step of obedience. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to bring all our requests to God in prayer.
Calculate Your Tithe
- Determine 10% of your income. If you earn $500 weekly, your tithe would be $50. You can tithe on gross or net income; seek God’s direction on what’s best for you.
Set Aside Your Tithe First
- Before paying bills or spending on other things, prioritize your tithe. This honors God with your firstfruits (Exodus 23:19).
Choose a Giving Method
- Most churches offer several ways to give: online, through an app, or in person. Select the method that works best for you.
Be Consistent
- Make tithing a regular habit. Whether you’re paid weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, set a schedule and stick to it (1 Corinthians 16:2).
Track God’s Faithfulness
- Keep a journal of how God provides and blesses you as you faithfully tithe. This will encourage you to keep trusting Him (Psalm 37:25).

Addressing Common Concerns

“I Can’t Afford to Tithe”
- Trust God’s promise in Malachi 3:10. Start with a smaller percentage and work toward 10% as your faith grows.
“What if I Have Debt?”
- Seek God’s wisdom and aim to balance paying down debt while giving sacrificially. Even a small amount given faithfully can honor God.

Tithing is not about legalism; it’s about trust, gratitude, and partnership with God’s work. 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us, "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." Take the step today, and experience the joy and blessings of honoring God with your finances.