As the year comes to a close, and I sat down to calculate and return my tithe and offering, I felt a deep sense of gratitude.
When I started attending the church I currently attend nearly 25 years ago, I was convicted that I should be returning a tithe. I have a story that I had made $100 for the week, and felt that I should be returning my $10, but just didn’t think I could spare it – and so, I didn’t. I went to work later that day, working as a cashier at the local pharmacy, and this lady came in. I rang up her stuff and told her the total. She counted her money and didn’t have enough. She left the money on the counter and went to her car to get the difference. I simply waited on her as the store was quiet – never even bothering to touch or count the money. She came back in and counted and accused me of stealing her $10.
I can now look back and laugh at this event. But that day, I bawled. She accused me of stealing $10. Thankfully, my employers knew my integrity (and her) and didn’t believe her.
I wish I could tell you that I learned this lesson from that one experience. I didn’t.
But fast forward to now – I count it as a joy to be able to give and return a tithe and an offering.
As I looked over my prior giving history, there was a month that seemed super low compared to my normal giving pattern. I started wondering if I had made a mistake that month – and started back tracking. Nope – no mistake made; my income was just that low for that month.
As I sat and reflected on where I was currently, I truly felt gratitude. Growing a business is no small feat – and sometimes there will be less income, and sometimes there will be more, but the one thing I’ve come to realize when we are faithful. David said in Psalms 37:25 “I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread”.
Also, as many organizations are engaged in requesting donations, there are some that impact my life all year round, and I intentionally contribute to, especially at this time of year. I want to help them with furthering their ministries and thank them for blessing my life. The amounts don’t need to be large, do what you can afford to do.
We may also look around and see those who are in need, and if we are able to give, that we do. And, giving does not always have to be monetary, you may be able to give of your time to these organizations and those who need.
As a financial advisor, giving is an important part of my financial strategy. It teaches me discipline and trust, not in my own resources, but in what God can do.
What are some ways that you will consider giving during this season? Will you join me and be a joyful giver?