Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
What the Bible Says About Tithing
The tithe, meaning a tenth, was established in the Old Testament as the portion of income or produce that belonged to God. Abraham gave a tithe to Melchizedek in Genesis 14, and the Mosaic Law formalized tithing as a command for the nation of Israel.
In Malachi 3:10, God issued a remarkable challenge: test Me in this and see if I will not open the windows of heaven. This is one of the few places in Scripture where God invites people to put His faithfulness to the test through obedience in giving.
The New Testament shifts the emphasis from a strict percentage to the heart behind the gift. Paul taught that giving should be purposeful, voluntary, and cheerful, not given out of guilt or compulsion. The principle of generosity remains, but the motivation is love and gratitude rather than legal obligation.
Key Bible Verses
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”
— Malachi 3:10
“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”
— 2 Corinthians 9:7
“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.”
— Proverbs 3:9-10
Practical Application
- If you have never tithed, begin by giving a percentage of your income this month and increasing it over time as you experience God's faithfulness.
- Give your tithe first, before other expenses, as an act of faith that honors God with your firstfruits rather than your leftovers.
- Teach your children generosity by helping them set aside a portion of any money they receive to give to the church or someone in need.
Family Discussion & Activity
Discussion Questions
- ? What does it mean that God loves a cheerful giver, and how can we give with a joyful heart?
- ? Why do you think God challenges us to test Him through tithing in Malachi 3:10?
- ? How does giving the first portion of what we earn show that we trust God to provide?
Family Activity
This week, look for examples of tithing in your daily lives. Share one example at dinner each night and talk about how the Bible's teachings on tithing can guide your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tithing required for Christians today?
Christians disagree on this point. Some believe the tithe remains a standard, while others see the New Testament as teaching generous, Spirit-led giving that may exceed or differ from a strict ten percent.
Should I tithe on gross or net income?
The Bible does not specify. Many Christians tithe on gross income as a way of giving God the firstfruits, while others tithe on net income. The key principle is cheerful, purposeful generosity.
What if I cannot afford to tithe?
Start where you are. Give what you can with a willing heart, and trust God to provide. Many believers testify that obedience in giving, even when finances are tight, led to unexpected provision.
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