Tithing has always been a core aspect of biblical stewardship—an act of faith and obedience that recognizes God’s ultimate ownership over everything, including our finances. Throughout Scripture, we see tithing not merely as a financial transaction, but as a spiritual posture—one that declares our trust in God’s provision and our desire to honor Him first.
In the New Testament, the focus of giving evolves. Rather than emphasizing a fixed amount, the emphasis shifts toward the spirit and intent behind our giving. As 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV) reminds us:
“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.”
This verse beautifully reflects the heart of stewardship: generosity rooted in joy, conviction, and a deep understanding that everything we have is a gift from God.
Let’s explore the three powerful forms of giving seen in Scripture and in faithful Christian living today: obedient giving, sacrificial giving, and giving from abundance.
1. Giving Out of Obedience
This form of tithing is often most familiar: the faithful, consistent giving of a set portion—often 10%—of one’s income. For many believers, this giving is built into their budget. Like clockwork, every payday or week, they give as an act of obedience to the Lord.
This kind of giving isn’t based on emotion or circumstances—it’s a discipline. It’s saying, “Lord, I trust You, and I will honor You first with what You have given me.” Obedient giving reflects a commitment to God’s instruction and a heart that seeks to follow Him faithfully.
2. Giving from Abundance
At times, God blesses us in unexpected ways. A surprise bonus, a large tax refund, an inheritance, or higher-than-expected investment returns—these are moments of abundance. They are not just financial blessings; they are opportunities to give generously in gratitude.
One example is a farmer who receives a greater crop yield than expected. He sees this increase not as luck, but as God’s provision—and he gives back from that abundance.
Similarly, many clients see investment gains and capital appreciation as blessings, and they choose to tithe from that growth. These gifts reflect hearts tuned to recognize that all good things come from above, and they respond with generosity that mirrors God’s abundant grace.
3. Giving from Sacrifice
Perhaps the most profound form of giving is sacrificial giving—when we offer not from excess, but from our need. This echoes the powerful moment in Luke 21:1–4, when Jesus observes a poor widow placing two small coins into the temple treasury:
“Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”
Sacrificial giving is deeply personal. It’s choosing to go without so that others may be blessed. It may look like brewing coffee at home to redirect funds toward sponsoring a child, or giving away a second vehicle to someone in need. These decisions may seem small or even invisible to others, but God sees the heart behind every sacrifice.
Whether we give out of obedience, from abundance, or through sacrifice, the common thread is the heart. As Paul reminds us once again in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “God loves a cheerful giver.”
Tithing isn’t about meeting a requirement—it’s about responding to God’s love and provision with faith, gratitude, and joy.
If you’re navigating how to align your financial life with biblical principles, we’d love to walk alongside you. A CCI advisor can help you explore how to live generously and steward your resources in a way that honors God.
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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.
