ONE Thought (from us)
There’s a reason Jesus taught about money as much as he did. It has a way of indicating what’s in our hearts and where our affections truly lay. God’s word is very vocal about finances. Why? Is it because God needs our money? Not in the slightest. It’s because God knows that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”.
Given the above, how should a couple view tithing and what can they do if they don’t agree on giving at all? Here are some BIG biblical truths that should guide how couples view and manage their money:
- God owns everything; he gives and he takes away. Our job is to be faithful in plenty and in lack.
- Giving is biblical, but tithing is just the start. Tithing is a command attached to the Levitical law that was satisfied by Christ on the cross. Still, Christians are called to give, but instead of giving a fixed percentage, we’re called to give generously, sacrificially, and joyfully. That could mean 10% or 50% or more; the question is one of obedience and faithfulness.
- God promises to bless those who are obedient to him, and generosity is attached to being blessed (2 Cor 9:6, Prov 22:9, Luke 6:38). However, being blessed does not always come from God in ways we anticipate (not material, not immediate), so we can trust God to bless however, whenever he sees best. The point is trusting him.
Now, if a couple disagrees about giving, the first step is to learn what God says. Then, discuss and work out how you might better conform your giving habits to God’s instruction. If you’d like to explore this topic more, we discussed it in this week’s podcast episode (links: YouTube video, podcast audio).
“But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
(Matthew 6:3–4)
ONE Quote (from another)
“Charity means pardoning the unpardonable, or it is no virtue at all. Hope means hoping when things are hopeless, or it is no virtue at all. And faith means believing the incredible, or it is no virtue at all.”
– G.K. Chesterton
ONE Question (for you)
Of the three qualifications for Christian giving (generous, sacrificial, and joyful), which one do you struggle with the most and why?
As mentioned, we talked about this topic in this week’s podcast episode. Be sure to watch or listen to get the full discussion.
Much love and stay fierce!
Ryan & Selena Frederick
Founders of Fierce Marriage