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Should I Give Tithe When I’m Struggling Financially?

When money is tight and every coin counts, the idea of giving away 10% of your income can feel impossible—maybe even irresponsible. Yet, the question lingers in the hearts of many believers: Should I still tithe when I can barely cover my needs?

It’s a deeply personal and spiritual dilemma, especially when survival seems to clash with spiritual obedience. Whether you’re feeling burdened, conflicted, or just curious, let’s see how the Bible can lead us to clarity and peace of mind.

In this article, we’ll explore this question through a biblical lens that doesn’t ignore financial hardship but instead addresses it with compassion and clarity.

You’ll learn:

Let’s start with scriptural insights on tithing in tough times.

What the Bible actually says about tithing in difficult times

The concept of tithing—returning 10 percent of your income to God—is first introduced in the Old Testament (Genesis 14:20; Leviticus 27:30). It was both a spiritual and communal practice, rooted in gratitude and obedience.

But what happens when employment and income are unstable, or when bills and basic needs swallow everything you earn?

Interestingly, the Bible doesn’t portray tithing as a tax or a rigid rule, but rather as an act of trusting God and honouring Him first. Proverbs 3:9-10 encourages, “Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the first fruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine” (NKJV).

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ commends the generosity of a widow who gave two small coins—all she had (Mark 12:41-44). This wasn’t about the amount; it was about the heart behind the giving. Her “widow’s mite” wasn’t just a story of offering. It was a lesson in obedience and sacrificial faith.

That leads us to a deeper question… Is there a connection between stewardship and faith? Let’s explore this in the next section.

How faith, trust, and stewardship are connected

Tithing during financial hardship challenges our assumptions about security and provision. It forces us to ask: Do I trust my income, or do I trust God’s provision?

Faith isn’t just about what we believe; it’s how we live, especially in seasons of lack.

Stewardship is the biblical principle of managing our personal finances wisely, with God at the centre. This includes budgeting, paying off debt, and ensuring that helping the poor is not forgotten. Tithing is one part of that stewardship—a recognition that all we have comes from God.

Jesus reminds us:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, NKJV).

Choosing to tithe isn’t ignoring your bills; it’s acknowledging God before your bills.

Still, you might wonder: But what if I don’t have enough? Let’s look at some powerful examples next.

Examples of individuals who gave despite their lack and what happened

Throughout the Bible and church history, we find many who gave even in scarcity.

Consider Elijah and the widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:7-16). She had only a handful of flour and a little oil—just enough for a final meal—yet she shared it with God’s prophet. And her jar never ran dry.

In modern times, countless believers have testified how God honoured their obedience through tithing, even when finances were tight. Often, these stories aren’t about sudden riches but about God’s blessings showing up through provision, favour, and peace.

This doesn’t mean giving is a formula for getting. It means that when you trust God in the valley, He often reveals His faithfulness in ways you never imagined. The next section will explore how to apply this, even when your budgeting is stretched thin.

Practical ways to honour God financially when your income is limited

Tithing doesn’t have to be rigid. The heart of the matter is generosity, obedience, and faithfulness. If you’re overwhelmed with fear and anxiety about money, start where you are:

  • Pray over your finances. Ask God for wisdom and peace.
  • Budget with stewardship in mind. Create a simple plan that covers needs while leaving room for giving.
  • Prioritise generosity, even in small ways. You may not be able to give a full 10 percent tithe, but a consistent portion of your income shows commitment.
  • Give offerings through acts of service, sharing meals, or supporting others.
  • Be transparent with God. He already knows your situation and honours honesty and effort.

Remember: God isn’t impressed by the amount, but by the posture of your heart. Giving in faith—even when small—is a powerful act of worship.

So if you’re asking whether it’s worth giving at all when you feel financially stretched, consider this final truth.

God sees your heart, not just your wallet

The pressure to “give to the church” can feel burdensome if it’s disconnected from love and trust. But God isn’t after your money. He’s after you. He sees your fear and anxiety about money, your good intentions, your sacrifices, and your heart.

2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver” (NKJV).

Giving should never increase your guilt. It should deepen your trust in God.

So, should you give a tithe when you’re struggling financially? The Bible doesn’t command us to give what we don’t have. But it does invite us to trust, obey, and live generously, even in small ways. And sometimes, those small steps of obedience unlock surprising peace.

Next steps in faith and finances

Don’t give out of fear. Give out of faith.

Whether it’s a full 10 percent tithe, a small offering, or simply your prayer and willingness to obey—God receives it with joy. And in your journey through financial struggle, He promises something far more valuable than cash: His presence, His peace, and His provision.

Looking for more Bible-based guidance on money, giving, and navigating finances as a Christian? Visit the Finances section of Hope for Africa for deeper insights.

Start with these helpful reads:

  • How to Manage Money God’s Way: Key Bible Principles
    Discover timeless financial truths from Scripture that go beyond budgeting. Learn how to align your money decisions with biblical values and experience freedom through God-honouring stewardship.
  • How Can I Save Money When I Don’t Earn Much?
    This article offers practical, faith-driven tips for managing small incomes. It provides encouragement and real strategies for those living paycheck to paycheck, showing how saving is possible—even in tight seasons.
  • Does God Care That I’m Broke and Can’t Find a Job?
    If you’re struggling with unemployment and income uncertainty, this piece offers hope. It reminds you that your worth isn’t tied to your job and that God’s provision often comes in surprising ways.

Let your journey toward peace and financial wisdom continue today.

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