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What is Tithing and Why Does It Matter?

Have you ever wondered why churches ask for tithes, or what tithing actually means in the Bible?

For many, it feels like a tradition passed down without much context. But tithing isn’t just about giving money to the church. It’s a deeply spiritual principle that reveals something far greater: our trust in God, our values, and our relationship with what He has entrusted us with.

In this article, we’ll explore what tithing truly is, why it matters in both spiritual and practical contexts, and how understanding its biblical foundation can transform your approach to generosity, stewardship, and worship.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Let’s dive in.

What tithing means in the Bible

Tithing, by definition, is the practice of giving ten percent of one’s income or resources—firstfruits—to God.

The word “tithe” literally means a tenth in Hebrew. It is not a random offering but a set amount that reflects our recognition that God owns everything, including our financial resources.

From the Old Testament, tithing was established in the law given to Israel:

“And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s. It is holy to the Lord” (Leviticus 27:30, NKJV).

Tithing was a practical and spiritual act of giving back to God what already belonged to Him. It supported the local church, Levites, and care for the poor, meeting the needs of the religious community.

In the New Testament, although tithing is not commanded in the same way, the principle of generous, priority-based giving remains.

Jesus Christ affirmed the importance of giving when He said,

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone” (Matthew 23:23, NKJV).

The call now is to become a cheerful giver—one whose heart is aligned with God’s love and generous spirit.

So, if tithing began as a covenantal law, does it still hold value in today’s spiritual landscape? Let’s explore why tithing still matters for Christians today.

Why tithing still matters today

Church treasurer giving lessons on why tithing still matter today during a church meeting

Though the church no longer operates under Mosaic law, the principle of giving tithes continues to guide Christians today in prioritising God in their lives.

Tithing reflects trust, discipline, and worship. It reminds us that our money is not ours. It’s a gift from God, and we are merely stewards of it.

Giving tithes today also helps fund the vital work of religious organizations. Whether it’s a local church providing community aid or an online ministry offering answers to life’s questions, tithing provides the necessary resources to sustain such missions.

Moreover, tithing in today’s context supports Christian business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals who believe in honouring God’s laws through their business success. By giving a portion of their income or profits, they declare: “This business belongs to God.”

When we give tithes first—before paying bills or investing—we declare that God is our priority, not our last resort. This practice cultivates generosity, reorders our monthly budget, and draws us into a lifestyle of surrender.

But what happens when we faithfully tithe? Let’s examine the blessings God promises and the responsibilities that come with them.

The blessings and responsibilities of tithing

The Bible is clear—God promises to bless faithful givers.

In the book of Malachi, God invites us to test Him:

“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the Lord of hosts,
“If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
That there will not be room enough to receive it” ( Malachi 3:10, NKJV).

This is one of the few times in Scripture where God challenges us to put Him to the test.

Tithing isn’t a transactional guarantee that you’ll become materially wealthy, but it does often lead to greater financial wisdom, provision for needs, and a spirit of contentment. It trains the heart to be less attached to wealth and more aligned with heaven’s priorities.

At the same time, tithing carries responsibility. It is not merely a transactional act but a covenantal act of giving back with gratitude.

As Paul wrote, “…He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully” (2 Corinthians 9:6, NKJV).

Giving tithes becomes a habit that produces a generous spirit, a disciplined mind, and a grateful heart.

Still, many hesitate to tithe because of common doubts or past misunderstandings. Let’s address some of the myths that surround this essential spiritual practice.

Common misunderstandings about tithing

One of the most persistent myths is that tithing is “just for the Old Testament.”

Although the ceremonial laws have been fulfilled—the ceremonial laws that point to the death of Christ—the spirit of giving remains essential in the New Testament. Jesus Christ didn’t abolish God’s laws. He fulfilled them and raised the bar: He called us to give from the heart.

Another misconception is that tithing is only for the wealthy or established Christian business owners. But God’s invitation to give isn’t based on income. It’s about prioritizing, trusting, and obeying. Whether you’re earning a full salary or living on little, giving tithes is an act of aligning your monthly budget with God’s will.

Some also assume the church misuses tithes. While accountability is essential, that shouldn’t keep us from giving. Our role is to give faithfully—it’s God’s role to deal with stewardship on the receiving end.

Now let’s talk about how to start—or restart—tithing with purpose and joy.

How to begin tithing with purpose

Getting started with tithing doesn’t have to be complicated. It begins with a heart decision: to trust God with your financial resources and to make Him your priority in life. Start by setting aside ten percent of your income as your firstfruits, not your leftovers.

Here are a few steps to help you give tithes with intentionality:

  • Pray and plan: Seek God’s guidance and include tithing in your monthly budget.
  • Be consistent: Whether weekly or monthly, make tithing a regular discipline.
  • Give cheerfully: As Paul wrote, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
  • Choose your storehouse: Give primarily to your local church, but also consider trusted religious organizations that serve others’ needs.
  • Track your transformation: As you tithe, notice how your trust, peace, and generosity grow.

Remember, tithing provides not just for ministry, but for your own spiritual growth.

From transaction to transformation

Tithing is not about losing money. It’s about gaining perspective. It’s an invitation to be part of something eternal, to honour God, and to experience the joy of giving back.

Whether you’re navigating a demanding career, managing a household, or building your faith as a young adult, embracing tithing can deepen your trust, unlock a generous spirit, and align your heart with God’s priorities.

But this is just the beginning. Take the next step in your faith and financial journey. Explore more on tithing, trust, and God’s provision.
Ready to go deeper?

Visit our Faith and Finance sections now to uncover more answers rooted in Scripture, designed to help you live a purpose-filled life.

Here are three hand-picked articles that complement what you’ve just learned and will help you continue your journey with clarity and confidence:

  • Tips to Attaining Financial Independence As a Young Person – Gain practical, Bible-based insights on how to manage your money early in life. Whether you’re a student, entry-level professional, or side-hustler, this article helps you develop discipline, avoid debt traps, and build toward long-term stability—while keeping God at the centre of your monthly budget.
  • How to Trust God in the Waiting Period – Struggling to see the purpose in life’s delays? This article walks you through biblical stories and principles that will teach you how to wait with peace and purpose. You’ll discover how God loves, leads, and grows us in seasons of uncertainty, preparing us for greater things ahead.
  • Tips for Financial Wellbeing – More than budgeting—this guide offers a holistic approach to financial wellbeing, combining Christian principles with practical advice. Learn how to give, save, invest, and live generously—all while avoiding burnout and aligning your finances with your faith.

Share this article with someone you know who’s ready to honour God with their resources and build a life of trust, discipline, and generosity.

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