Overcoming Fear: How Tithing Transformed My Finances and Strengthened My Relationship with God

The Journey of Faith: Embracing Challenges and Growing in Spiritual Maturity

Taking that first step into an act of faith can often feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to something like tithing. For many, the idea of giving away 10% of their income can stir up feelings of reluctance and fear. I was one of those individuals, apprehensive and uncertain about the process. Yet, it was precisely this struggle that led me to a deeper understanding of faith and dependence on God.

 

Tithing can be one of the most stressful and controversial practices within the Christian faith. I struggled with it myself. It’s challenging because it is meant to be challenging; acts of true faith often are. Initially, I was reluctant and even opposed to the idea of tithing. However, I started with baby steps, giving a little at first and gradually working my way up to ten percent. To my surprise, my finances didn’t suffer; instead, they flourished. This experience taught me that true acts of faith can lead to unexpected rewards.

Biting the bullet, taking a leap of faith, and trusting God with our finances eventually bore fruit. It reinforced the idea that true rewards often come when we step out of our comfort zones. Our relationship with God is built not only on faith but also on actions that stem from that faith. What I discovered was profound: leading our emotions, rather than letting them dictate our reactions, is crucial in all aspects of life, especially within relationships.

Related: The Hidden Purpose Behind Life’s Toughest Moments | When You Trust the Process Life Reveals Its Meaning

Every relationship, whether personal or spiritual, requires a level of emotional intelligence. Self-awareness plays a pivotal role in fostering healthy interactions. When partners express love yet fail to practice patience, kindness, or humility, they may be missing the foundational aspects of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. Love is not merely a word; it is an active choice to cultivate positive emotions and behaviors.

This journey isn't just about emotional intelligence; it's about spiritual growth. True growth often emerges from our trials and advancements through hardships. Life is replete with challenges that, though they induce discomfort or pain, also provide development opportunities. We can choose to sulk in the hardship or rise above it, learning valuable lessons and maturing into the individuals we are meant to become. Ephesians 6:10-17 reminds us to prepare ourselves spiritually, putting on “the full armor of God.” This metaphor is essential because, in our struggles, we are not at battle with people or circumstances but with a greater spiritual conflict that tests our resilience and faith.

You've probably faced situations where you felt entrenched, as if there was no way out. It's in these moments that we must remind ourselves of God’s omnipotence. The realization that He is capable of handling challenges beyond our own capabilities is both freeing and empowering. Imagine if we could solve every issue on our own—where would God's glory reside? Times of difficulty exist not to break us but to teach us dependence on Him.

Related: Finding Strength in Struggles: How to Lean on Your Faith During Life’s Toughest Trials

As Isaiah 12:2 expresses, trust is paramount: “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid.” This declaration is a testament to God’s unwavering strength during trying times. When we face hardships, we don't just endure; we lean into our faith, emerging stronger and equipped for future challenges.

The path of faith, while fraught with challenges, ultimately leads to a richer relationship with God and personal transformation. Embracing tithing was merely the start—the real miracle was discovering the depth of trust and reliance we could have on Him. Cultivating positive engagements and choosing to learn through struggles can not only enhance our emotional intelligence but also deepen our connection with the divine.

- Ken Hulsey

Related: Walking on Water: Overcoming Fear and Embracing Faith in the Face of Life's Challenges | Ken Hulsey

The power of the tithe: 18 reasons for tithing, 29 powerful blessings of the tithe, Tithing in the New Testament - Paperback – by Matthew Ashimolowo (Author)

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In recent times the subject of tithing, as taught in the Bible, has sparked more debate, raised questions and provoked several reactions, some of which relate to the necessity of tithing. Questions include ‘Is tithing necessary?’ ‘Was it meant for New Testament believers, or is it strictly for people under Mosaic laws?’ Could it be that it may have been abrogated with the Levitical laws which were fulfilled when Christ was crucified? Are we subject to the same curses which the Old Testament says were if they did not bring the tithe?” In this book, I will attempt to exegete the subject and clarify the three times where we see that tithing was practiced in the Bible. That is: before the law of Moses, secondly, as established by the law of Moses and thirdly under the covenant of grace where we see Jesus aligning Himself with the priesthood of Melchizedek.