“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” — Proverbs 3:9
When walking alongside families and individuals in their financial journeys, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“Should I tithe, or is that money better used to pay off my debts?”
This is not just a financial question—it’s a heart question. And while each person’s circumstances are unique, the Bible offers wisdom that helps us approach this with clarity and faith.
The Biblical Foundation of Tithing
From the very beginning, Scripture is clear about what a tithe represents: the first tenth of our increase, given back to God as an act of worship. The word “tithe” itself never refers to anything less than 10%.
A tithe isn’t simply a financial decision—it is a recognition that God is our Provider and Sustainer. It’s an act of worship that says: “Lord, I trust You above all else.”
Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” When we prioritize God with our finances, we align our hearts with Him.
Tithing vs. Debt Payments
So what happens when debt stands in the way? Is it wiser to pause tithing until financial obligations are caught up?
While every household situation is different, the guiding principle is this: putting off tithing to pay debt first places our expenditures above God. In the same way, choosing to tithe only from net income rather than gross income can place taxes and government obligations ahead of God.
The Bible refers to giving from the “first fruits.” In practical terms, that means tithing should be our first budget item, not what’s left over after expenses and debts.
Tithing as Worship, Not Transaction
It’s important to remember that tithing is not a financial exchange—it’s an act of worship. It’s a chance to recognize God’s provision and to demonstrate our faith.
Some may feel called to give less than 10%, and it is not our place to judge another believer’s heart. What matters most is a posture of obedience and trust.
If a son were to ask his father, “Dad, should I stop tithing until I pay down my credit card debt?”—the response of faith would be:
“Son, you can’t afford not to tithe. Put God first, trust Him with your finances, and seek His guidance in managing debt. Perhaps the debt itself is a signal to reevaluate borrowing and living within God’s provision.”
Trusting God First
At its core, this question is less about money and more about trust. Tithing is a way of declaring that God comes before every other obligation. Debt is a burden, but God is greater than debt.
When we faithfully place Him first, we invite His wisdom and peace into every area of our financial lives.
Final Encouragement
If you find yourself wrestling with the tension between giving and debt, remember this: God calls us to trust Him with our first and best. Begin with prayer, seek wise counsel, and take intentional steps to steward both your giving and your obligations in a way that honors Him.
At CCI, we walk alongside believers who want to manage their resources with wisdom and faith. If you’d like guidance in aligning your financial life with biblical principles, we would be honored to meet with you.
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” — Proverbs 3:9
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This material is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice. Investing involves risk, including potential loss of principal.
