Loving others · How-to guides
How to Tithe
To tithe is to return a portion, traditionally a tenth, of what you receive to God. It is an ancient act of worship and trust that reminds you everything is His.
Understand what a tithe is
A tithe is a tenth, set apart for God. In the Bible it supported worship and cared for those in need.
“And all the tithe of the land ... is the LORD's: it is holy unto the LORD.”Leviticus 27:30, King James Version
Give it as worship, not a fee
Tithing is not paying dues; it is an act of love and trust that acknowledges God as the source of all you have.
“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.”Proverbs 3:9, King James Version
Give first, not from the leftovers
Setting aside your gift first, before you spend on the rest, puts God in His rightful place in your finances.
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse ... and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD.”Malachi 3:10, King James Version
Give cheerfully and generously
Let the amount be settled in your heart and given gladly. The New Testament lifts up joyful generosity above a strict formula.
“God loveth a cheerful giver.”2 Corinthians 9:7, King James Version
Trust God with the rest
Tithing is an act of faith that God will provide. Giving the first portion is a way of trusting Him with all of it.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God ... and all these things shall be added unto you.”Matthew 6:33, King James Version
The One who makes this possible: Jesus
Tithing was never really about the money God needed; it was about the heart He wanted. Jesus gave everything for you, and generous giving is a small, grateful echo of His self-giving love. You do not tithe to earn God's favor; you give freely because in Christ He has already given you everything.
Love is meant to be shared. You can find people near you, share the good news, or pray for the one on your heart.
Common questions
What is a tithe in the Bible?
A tithe is a tenth of your increase set apart for God, an ancient practice that supported worship and cared for the needy. It expresses that everything belongs to God and is given back to Him as worship and trust.
Do Christians have to tithe?
Christians hold differing views, and the New Testament emphasizes cheerful, generous, heartfelt giving over a strict rule. Many use the tithe as a helpful starting point. What matters most is a willing, grateful heart, not a legalistic quota.
Where should I give my tithe?
Traditionally the tithe supports your local church and its ministry, and giving also flows to the poor and to gospel work. Give where God is at work and where you are being fed and can help others.