A Clear Look at Biblical Giving for Today’s Believer

Money is a powerful part of our lives, and how we use it reveals what we value. For Christians, giving financially is one of the practical ways we honor God and support His work. But is tithing still required today? How should we give? And where should our giving go?

This guide will help you understand tithing and biblical giving, not as a legalistic demand, but as a wise, God-centered principle that reflects our love and stewardship.

Who Owns Your Money?

The Bible reminds us that everything we have comes from God:

“But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth...” — Deuteronomy 8:18
“The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts.” — Haggai 2:8

When we earn money, it’s not truly ours. We are stewards — managers of God’s resources. That means we should be intentional about how we use what He has given us, and that includes how we give.

How Should Christians Give?

The New Testament does not command tithing as a law, but it sets forth powerful principles that go even deeper: generosity, joy, and intentionality. Here's how:

1. Give Freely, Not Reluctantly

“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7

Biblical giving is never forced. It’s an act of joy and worship. Give because you want to, not because someone pressures you or you feel guilty. Avoid giving:

• Sadly – out of sorrow or reluctance.

• Grudgingly – because of outside pressure.

• By necessity – without preparation or thought.

2. Give Consistently and Privately

Giving was practiced regularly by believers; not through public collection plates, but through personal and quiet giving (see 1 Corinthians 16:2). The model in Scripture supports using a secure offering box or designated giving space before or after church services (2 Kings 12:9).

• Bring your gift quietly. God sees, and that's what matters (Luke 21:1-4).

• Use simple means: cash, check, or whatever form your church accepts.

• Don’t give to be seen — give because God is worthy. (Matthew 6:1-4)

3. Give in Proportion to What You Have

God doesn’t expect you to give what you don’t have. He looks at the heart and the ability.

“If there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.” — 2 Corinthians 8:12

• Give rationally – plan your giving based on your actual income.

• Give sacrificially – sometimes, giving stretches us, and that's a good thing (2 Corinthians 8:1-4).

• Give proportionally – your giving may grow as your income grows.

What About Tithing?

The tithe, the giving of 10% of one’s income — was a command under the Old Testament law. It supported the temple, priests, and God’s covenant people. While the New Testament doesn’t re-command tithing, many believers use it as a wise starting point for generosity.

“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.” — Proverbs 3:9

Tithing today is not a rule to follow but a principle to apply. It teaches us:

• Priority – Give to God first, not last.

• Faith – Trust God to provide, even as you give.

• Discipline – Develop a regular rhythm of generosity.

It’s not about percentages — it’s about the posture of your heart. Some give less than 10% and grow into it. Others give more, as God leads.

Three Kinds of Giving in the Bible

1. Tithing – Giving a portion of your income (often 10%) regularly, primarily to your local church for ministry, missions, and upkeep.

2. Gifting – Giving extra when led, such as to Christian missions, ministries, or individuals (Philippians 4:15-17).

3. Almsgiving – Giving to help the poor, quietly and compassionately (Matthew 6:1-4).

When giving alms, prioritize:

• Believers in need (Galatians 6:10; Matthew 25:40)

• Faithful church members (1 Corinthians 16:1)

• Working individuals, not the lazy (2 Thessalonians 3:10)

Final Thoughts: Giving as Worship

Giving is not just about money — it's about worship. When we give, we express our trust in God and our desire to invest in what truly lasts. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21).

So give — not from guilt, but from grace. Not from obligation, but out of love. Tithing may not be a rule in the New Testament, but generosity is absolutely part of the Christian life.

💡 Want to support gospel-centered worship? Explore hymnallibrary.org/donate/ and/or consider giving to resources that bless the Church.