Living For Christ Ministries

Why We Believe in Tithing

Tithing, the practice of giving a tenth of one’s income or resources to God, is a topic rooted in biblical teachings and is a practice supported by many Christian denominations. Here are several reasons why Christians believe in tithing, along with relevant biblical principles:

1. Biblical Command and Example

Tithing has its roots in Scripture, starting with the Old Testament. The practice is explicitly mentioned in several passages, where God commands His people to bring a portion of their harvest or income as an offering.

• Old Testament Foundation**: In Leviticus 27:30, God states, “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.” This establishes the concept that the first fruits and a portion of one’s earnings belong to God.
• Abraham’s Example: In Genesis 14:18-20, Abraham gives a tithe to Melchizedek, the king of Salem, before the law was ever given. This act shows that the practice predates the Mosaic Law and reflects a heart of gratitude and reverence towards God.

2. Acknowledgment of God’s Provision

Tithing serves as a tangible acknowledgment that everything we have comes from God. By giving a portion back to Him, we express our gratitude and dependence on His provision.

• Deuteronomy 8:18** reminds us, “But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth.” Tithing is an act of worship that recognizes God as the source of all blessings.

3. Support for Ministry and Community

In the Old Testament, tithes were used to support the Levitical priesthood and the work of the temple, ensuring that those who dedicated their lives to serving God were provided for.

• Numbers 18:21 states, “I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting.” This principle remains in effect today, where tithes support local churches, ministries, and outreach programs.

4. A Heart of Generosity

Tithing cultivates a spirit of generosity and combats materialism. It encourages believers to prioritize God in their finances and reminds them that their worth is not tied to their possessions.

• 2 Corinthians 9:7 emphasizes, “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.” When Christians give with joy and intention, they reflect God’s generosity.

5. Spiritual Growth and Discipline

Regularly practicing tithing can lead to spiritual growth, teaching Christians to trust God with their finances and deepening their faith in His provision.

• Malachi 3:10 encourages believers to “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.” This verse invites believers to experience God’s faithfulness through their obedience.

6. New Testament Principles

While the New Testament does not command tithing in the same way the Old Testament does, it reinforces the heart behind giving and encourages generosity.

• Matthew 23:23 mentions tithing but emphasizes that justice, mercy, and faithfulness are of greater importance. This indicates that the attitude behind giving is crucial.
• Acts 4:32-35** depicts the early church sharing their resources generously, illustrating the Spirit of communal support and love, which aligns with the principles of tithing.

In conclusion, Christians believe in tithing because it is deeply rooted in biblical teaching and reflects core principles of faith—acknowledging God’s provision, supporting His work, cultivating generosity, and fostering spiritual growth. Tithing is viewed not only as a financial obligation, but also as an act of worship and obedience that honors God and expresses faith in His continued provision. Each believer is encouraged to prayerfully consider their approach to tithing, allowing their hearts and resources to align with God’s purpose in their lives.

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Embracing God’s Love

The foundation of God’s power lies in His unconditional love for us. As we accept this love, we begin to see ourselves through His eyes—worthy, valued, and capable. Romans 15:5-6 reminds us, “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.” This love not only elevates our self-worth but empowers us to extend grace to others.

Finding Strength in Weakness 

In our moments of weakness and struggle, God’s power shines the brightest. 2 Corinthians 12:9 teaches us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” When we acknowledge our limitations and surrender to Him, we create space for His strength to take action in our lives. We are lifted up, allowing us to rise above challenges, knowing that we are never alone.

Transformation Through Faith

Faith is the key that unlocks the door to God’s transformative power. When we place our trust in Him, we open ourselves to new possibilities and opportunities. Philippians 4:13 states, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This scripture serves as a reminder that we are equipped to overcome adversity and achieve greatness when we rely on God’s power.

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Psalm 150: A Celebration of Praise and Worship

Psalm 150 is a magnificent crescendo of worship, encouraging us to lift our voices, instruments, and hearts in awe-filled praise to our Creator. It serves as a reminder of the joyful duty we have to glorify God in every aspect of our lives. Here’s a more inspiring reflection on this jubilant psalm:

1. The Call to Worship

“Praise the Lord! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens!” (Psalm 150:1)

The psalm begins with an exuberant call to worship, urging us to praise the Lord both in the earthly sanctuary and in the majestic expanse of the heavens. This beckoning reflects the truth that worship is not confined to a specific place or time; it can be expressed anywhere—whether in the solitude of our homes, in the gathering of believers, or in the beauty of nature. Wherever we are, we have the privilege and responsibility to acknowledge God’s greatness.

2. The Reason for Our Praise

“Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness!” (Psalm 150:2)

Why do we praise God? The psalmist reminds us of the reasons: His mighty deeds and His excellent greatness. Reflect on the wonders of creation, the miracles in our lives, and the loving faithfulness of God throughout history. When we recognize His sovereignty and love, our hearts naturally respond with gratitude and adoration. Each act of grace, every moment of provision, calls us to lift our voices in celebration.

3. The Instruments of Praise

“Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe!” (Psalm 150:3-4)

This psalm paints a vivid picture of communal worship, filled with a symphony of sounds and rhythms. It invokes an array of instruments—trumpets, lutes, harps, tambourines, and strings—each contributing to the rich tapestry of praise. It encourages us to express our worship through creativity and joy. Whether through music, dance, art, or even the simple act of service, God invites us to participate in worship with our whole being.

4. The Totality of Creation in Praise

“Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals!” (Psalm 150:5)

The psalm concludes with a powerful crescendo, where even the cymbals come alive with excitement! This image signifies that all of creation is called to praise God. As Christians, we are not just passive recipients of His grace; we are active participants in the grand symphony of creation. Just as the stars sing His glory and the mountains declare His majesty, we too are invited to join in this universal call to worship.

5. The Personal Invitation

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!” (Psalm 150:6)

The final verse strikes a personal chord. “Let everything that has breath” includes each one of us. If you are breathing, you have the gift of worship within you! This is an invitation to acknowledge that our very existence is a testament to God’s goodness. No matter our circumstances, struggles, or doubts, we can lift our voices in praise. It is through worship that we align our hearts with His, finding peace and purpose in His presence.

Psalm 150 is a joyful anthem that inspires us to embrace a lifestyle of praise. It invites us to celebrate our Creator with authentic hearts, vibrant expressions, and a community of believers.

As we reflect on this powerful psalm, may we be compelled to worship God in every moment of our lives. Let us acknowledge Him in both the extraordinary and the ordinary, finding reasons to celebrate His goodness in the miracle of each new day. Remember, when we choose to praise, we invite His presence into our lives, transforming us into vessels of His love and grace.

So let us shout for joy, play our instruments of worship, and declare with confidence, “Praise the Lord!” Together, we can create a symphony of praise that resonates in our hearts and echoes throughout the world, a beautiful reflection of His greatness!

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You are the Head

The responsibility for the success of our families, communities and nations rests with the male-man. The enemy is strategizing by attacking and confusing the men of our generation.  As a result, we are at risk of losing our identity – both those outside the Kingdom as well as those within the Kingdom.  Who are we really? What were we meant to do? What is our role in this life? Why did God make us first? What does that mean for us in relation to the other half of the human race and the entire creation in general? I believe that in spite of what modern psychologists, sociologists and other advocates say, the Bible shows that because God made the male first, we have a greater responsibility.

It was to Adam (the male-man) that God gave the responsibility to name the animals and to tend the garden. It was to Adam that God gave specific instructions on how to live on this earth in which he placed us. It was to Adam that God gave the Word.  From the beginning it was Adam’s responsibility to teach the Word to Eve. By being first we have been given the mantle of leadership, not because we are better or wiser or smarter in any way. It was simply God’s decision, God’s plan, God’s purpose.   

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Loving Your Wife

God designed a way in which you should relate to your family – your wife and children. Yes, you are the head of our family as created by God. But your headship should be practiced according to the pattern laid down by God, who assigned you to the position.

The Bible says (Ephesians 6: 25 – 27) that a man should love his wife as Christ loved the church. How does Christ demonstrate his love for his church? Firstly, He laid down his life for the church. He gave up his personal glory to die for her. Very rarely would any one of you be asked to lay down your life for your wife. But often, you are asked to sacrifice some of the things that are of personal gratification. If you love your wife like Christ loved the church, then you ought to be willing to make sacrifices for your wife. Some of you need to die to the baseball game, your job, or even some for your friends, for your wife’s sake. That is the example of love Christ set for the church.

Jesus cleansed and washed the church to make her holy. Brothers, you need to clean and cleanse your own wives to make them holy. How did Jesus wash us? By the Word. The first responsibility of any man is to know the Word of God – to make it a part of your own thinking and lifestyle so you can wash your wife when she becomes spotted with the worries of everyday life, with household expenses, children, and in-laws relationship. You are to encourage her with the Word, lift her spirit with the counsel of God. Your responsibility is to always keep an eye out for spots, doubts in your wife’s life (not the physical spots), and wash them and iron them out.

Just one other reminder, even though you are the head of the house, you cannot demand your wife’s submission. Submission means giving up one’s will voluntarily to another. Remember, the Bible tells her to submit to you as unto the Lord. So if you do not give your life for her and wash her and cleanse her with the Word, then do not be surprised if she does not submit. You are the leader; the onus is on you to give direction according to the Word of God.

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This simple illustration makes a strong point about a Christian’s finances. We may sometimes stand in the stream of the world’s wealth and watch it flow powerfully away from us. At other times, we may see that same wealth flowing toward us. The difference is one of perspective. Most people show keen interest in learning how to turn around so they can face the flow, allowing it to come their way.

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A river of water flows in one direction. I can face either downstream or upstream. If I want water to come to me, I do not have to change the direction of the current. Instead, the turn must occur in me as I face a new way.

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We can fall on the rock and be broken. Or the rock will fall on us and grind us to powder. The human mind would like to look at this last verse and say, “It’s simply not fair.” If I stay in that mindset and refuse to fall on the rock, so to speak, then the rock will instead fall on me and grind me to powder. However, I can look at this verse and say, “This is Kingdom truth. It will never be altered. Therefore, I am going to willingly fall on this rock and let myself be broken in a godly way. I will let God change me and remake me. Then I am eligible to receive His blessings

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