Tithing, "It Is a Matter Of The Heart"

 

Today's title is a quote from our assistant pastor, Andrew, as he was walking past a group of us as we were talking about tithing after a service. There was a small debate about whether this was an NT-valid practice. 

This post is a little different from my normal, but I felt like it was important because while I do tithe now         (with a cheerful heart), that wasn't always my case. The root problem was much mire serious than I realized.

A long time ago, in a land far from where I am spiritually now, I struggled with tithing.   I was a single mom with two kids and making an income that was well within the poverty zone. I struggled with my 30.00 a week tithe offering from my regular job and the 10.00 a week from a part-time job I did from home after the kids went to bed. Eventually, I just stopped - Now I know that was the worst thing I could have done financially. This was for an 8-year period. There were all kinds of reasons that I justified it with, but honestly, I felt terrible about it.  I would put my offering in the basket and think I give 110% of myself, why can't I get this victory! Some of you reading this may think I did the right thing, but I knew It was the wrong thing!  

Like I said, that was long ago, and I am thankful to tithe now.  This week, while doing my scripture writing, which often becomes Scripture Journaling, I hit on Mark 12:41-45.  The Widows Mite.  It occurred to me while I was writing this vignette that he uses to teach his disciples spoke something loud and clear to me, something He has been working on with me: Trusting Him, completely, utterly, without a shadow of a doubt.  This is what the widow did; she trusted the Lord with every aspect of her life, including the support of her life.  Looking back, I could clearly see I was not doing that. 

I have been living for the Lord for a long time, and I didn't even realize I was having TRUST issues until a few years ago!  That came to the surface while God did deep healing in my soul.  I think I am now a little more advanced, but who knows - The Lord may show me something I need to take care of and repent of in the next 30 seconds.  In his mercy, he brings us from Glory to Glory, one step at a time, with Goodness and Mercy holding our hands!  I thank God!

If I can leave you with anything worthwhile for the time you have spent reading this, it would be this:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart

And do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He will make your paths straight.

Do not be wise in your own eyes;

Fear the LORD and turn away from evil.

                                                                It will be healing to your body                                                And refreshment to your bones. 

                                                        Honor the LORD from your wealth,

                                        And from the first of all, your produce;

                                                       Then your barns will be filled with plenty,

                                       And your vats will overflow with new wine.

Proverbs 3:5-10

Trust Jesus, He Loves you.

Thanks for stopping by,

Ginny M.