Tithes and offerings are important parts of the Christian life. They teach us to trust God, to be generous, and to care for others. The Bible gives many verses about tithes and offerings that help us understand how we should give and why it matters.
In this article, we will look at key verses, their meanings, and how we can apply them today.
What Is a Tithe?
A tithe is giving 10% of what you earn back to God. It comes from an Old Testament law where people gave a tenth of their crops, livestock, or income to support the work of God.
Leviticus 27:30 – "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."
Tithing was a way to honor God with the first part of a person’s income. It showed gratitude and trust.
Genesis 14:20 – "And blessed be God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand." Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.
Even before the Law of Moses, Abraham tithed to Melchizedek, showing that giving to God was part of faith from the beginning.
What Is an Offering?
An offering is different from a tithe. Offerings are gifts we choose to give to God out of love, beyond the required 10%.
Exodus 35:5 – "From what you have, take an offering for the LORD. Everyone who is willing is to bring to the LORD an offering of gold, silver and bronze."
Offerings are about generosity and the heart. They are not commanded in a set amount but are given freely.
2 Corinthians 9:7 – "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."
Offerings can be used to support the church, missions, or help those in need.
Bible Verses About Tithes and Offerings
The Bible is full of teachings about giving. Here are important verses:
| Verse | Text |
|---|---|
| Malachi 3:10 | "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse... Test me in this, says the LORD Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven..." |
| Proverbs 3:9-10 | "Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled..." |
| Luke 6:38 | "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over..." |
| Deuteronomy 16:17 | "Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your God has blessed you." |
| Matthew 6:3-4 | "But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing..." |
Why We Give
Giving is more than a rule—it is worship. When we give, we show that God is first in our lives. We trust Him to provide for our needs and we show love to others.
Acts 20:35 – "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
2 Corinthians 8:12 – "For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have."
God cares more about the heart behind the gift than the size of it. Willingness and faithfulness matter most.
The Blessing of Giving
When we give, we invite God’s blessing into our lives. He promises to take care of those who honor Him.
Philippians 4:19 – "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."
Psalm 37:25-26 – "I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread."
Faithful giving leads to a life full of God's provision and care.
Practical Tips for Giving
Here are a few simple ways to practice tithes and offerings today:
- Set aside your tithe first: Make it the first thing you do with your income.
- Pray about offerings: Ask God where He wants you to give.
- Be consistent: Even when it's hard, stay faithful.
- Give cheerfully: Trust God to bless you and enjoy giving.
Quick Summary Table
| Giving Type | Definition | Bible Support |
|---|---|---|
| Tithe | 10% of income given to God | Leviticus 27:30, Malachi 3:10 |
| Offering | Voluntary gifts given freely | 2 Corinthians 9:7, Exodus 35:5 |
