I went to church today. Today we were discussing James 5. This is about being rich and not giving any of your riches to others. Granted I am not rich, but I did get a lot of information to take home today and think about. What little I make as a school teacher and that being the only income for 3 people, I don't give to others. Yes, as Phillip wrote in his blog, I would just about give the clothes of my back to help someone in need. The problem with this is I wait for the need. I don't normally just go out and help people when they don't need it. I would in a heartbeat, but I just dont' think about doing it. We typically don't give help unless a death, doctors appointment, or other major events. I wait for someone to need me before I will help. I hope to work on this. I love to help others.
Another problem my family has is with tithing. This issue has always been on my heart. I want to tithe, but I don't have the money to tithe. That sounds crazy. Every bit of my money goes to bills. There is no money that is left over. How can I give money to God if I am struggling with keeping a roof over my family? This just doesn't seem possible. After trying to answer this question, I began to analyze my life. Here of some of the possessions that I have that are not necessary: '06 Ford Focus (which most of Dad's insurance money paid for it), 2 computers, 2 cell phones, surround sound for the TV, playstation and about 25 games, etc. Are these necessary? The money I used to buy these items, I could have spent on my church. All of these possessions do add up in price. Jeff mention that they write their check to the church before any bills. Giving to the Lord should be your first priority. I think that I may try this look on tithing. I am going to prioritize my giving and put the Lord first. I am so excited about doing this. Michael get's paid Thursday, so I think I will start then.
If anyone else has ideas on tithing just let me know.
5 comments:
Clayton and I have the same struggle with the idea of tithing.. at times we just look and say "what money can we spare?" but as you mentioned... if you look around there's plenty of wasted money in our lives! I find it easier to tithe if I do it a little each week. Then I'm still giving what we should, but in smaller checks at a time.. for some reason this is less scary. (crazy?)
Thanks Jeff! I have never heard that verse. That really puts a lot meaning into tithing. I never really thought of it as robbing him.
We are in the same boat also-one income and three children,although we do not own alot of unnecessary things(I think the computer is about it)we still do not have a whole lot left.As far as helping people,I must disagree with you.You do help people who do not have an obvious need and I know this from experience;case in point-1.When I had no friends online-you and I became friends,and believe me not too many people were too open to the idea of meeting someone new
2.My daughter,Kendall,when you realized who she was, you immediately jumped into action
3.In some way shape or form you serve everyone who are your fellow bloggers needs of friendship and conversation,caring and concerns.So in conclusion,although we may always do more-you are filling needs daily and most of the time not even realizing it!
Thanks KT. I feel a little better, but I am still struggling with that at least that is my personal perspective on the issue.
hey Lou
Kevin and I have problems with tithing also- I have found on the days I go ahead and write the check before I pay the bills I usually have enough- not usually enough for extras, but who needs those anyway!! Try it and I think you will be blessed.
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