| Tithing and What It Means to Me.. |
|
Tithing and what it means to me.. I often wonder why people say that they can't afford to tithe, when I can't afford not to. I hear people say all the time that there is not enough money left after bills to tithe; yet my bills wouldn't be paid if I didn't tithe. This is my story. I started tithing when I was 16 years old, not because I was taught at home, but because my relationship with God meant so much to me, that the least I could do is give back to Him, for all that He had given to me. I realized that even though my tithe couldn't compare to others, my money was still going to promote the Kingdom of God. Wow! I was helping bring people to Christ. When I moved to Adrian five years ago, I had no idea where I would live or how I would pay my bills, but what I did know was that God was in control. God had always provided in the past and I knew He would continue to take care of me, just as He promised. Things were very tight, but God always came through. I saw first hand how God worked in the lives of those around me to make sure my family was taken care of. Without anyone knowing my needs or my circumstances, I experienced God's provision over me. When there wasn't food in the house, members of Crossroads not knowing would show up with food. No matter what it was we needed at any particular time, it seemed to always come through, whether it was food, clothing, car repairs or money for bills - God always provided. It was awesome to hear someone say to me that they felt as though God had told them to help me; of course God told them, that is how He works. Our God is amazing. As I said earlier, I look at tithing as a way to further the Kingdom of God. I am so excited to be a part of the vision God has planted in the hearts of our leaders. Crossroads is truly blessed to have the leaders we have. It's with member's tithes that Crossroads is able to reach out to those desperately seeking the love of Christ that Scott preaches about every Sunday. God has opened the door for Crossroads to fulfill their vision, but as members are we ready? Matthew 6:21 says, "Your heart is where your treasures is" Being satisfied with what you have comes from the presence of God in your life, possessions can be stolen, but the spirit of God will never leave us. How encouraging is that! My prayer is that every member will experience the joy of giving to the Lord, as I do. Step out in faith and respond to that voice inside you telling you to tithe. Once you do, I promise you that your heart will be filled with joy, just in knowing that you are helping to promote the Kingdom of God. |
Copyright © 2005 Crossroads Community Church and its licensors. All rights reserved.
