The topic of giving, or tithing (giving a tenth), is hotly debated, both inside the church and out. So, at Living Word, we keep things simple, and rely on what the Bible tells us about giving.

We believe that giving is done out of a heart of thanksgiving and appreciation for all that God has done for us and continues to do in our lives.

"You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.’”

– 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT)

When we give, we are not only saying that we trust God with our money and trust Him to provide for and take care of us, but we also recognize that all good things originate from Him.

When we choose to give God that tenth of our increase, we say, in effect, that we trust that He takes care of us. Giving illustrates our awareness that He is our provider – not our job, an investment, or even our ability to earn an income.

"No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

– Matthew 6:24 (NLT)

The Bible clearly tells us that the law of seedtime and harvest is firmly in effect (Genesis 8:22). We must recognize and believe God that what we sacrificially give will produce a harvest.

Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

– Luke 6:38 (NKJV)

And why would God want us blessed? So that we can be a blessing (Genesis 12:2).

In the Bible, we see that God views the tithe as His and as holy.

And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord ‘s. It is holy to the Lord.”

– Leviticus 27:30 (NKJV)

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