Can I Use Part of My Tithes to Help the Needy?

Tithes are specifically designated as belonging to God, while gifts are meant for helping the poor. Many wonder if using a portion of their tithes to support those in need aligns with their spiritual obligations. This article explores this question and provides insights from biblical teachings and practical considerations.

Understanding Tithes and Gifts

In the spiritual realm, the distinction between tithes and gifts is crucial. God's Word teaches us that tithes are a portion of one's earnings that should be returned to Him and the church, while gifts are directed towards helping those in need. This distinction can sometimes cause confusion, as some people wonder if they can use a portion of their tithes to assist the needy.

Tithing: A Commitment to God

According to the Bible, tithing is a commitment to God. The principle of tithing is not just about giving 10% of one's income; it's about recognizing that all we have ultimately belongs to God. The Bible states, "But you say, ‘How are we to pay it? ’ From the hand of the poor you shall buy it, that your house may be enriched. If you have not obeyed, surely the blessing of the Lord will not reach you'" (Malachi 3:8-10, ESV).

God Loves a Cheerful Giver

It is important to remember that God values a heart that is willing to give. Genesis 22:16-18 records, "By myself I have sworn, declares the Lord, because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will indeed bless you, and I will make your offspring as numerous as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of their enemies, and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice." God places great value on our willingness to obey and to give cheerfully.

The Promise of Blessings

Malachi 3:10-12 provides a detailed view of the blessings that come from tithing. “‘For I the LORD do not change, therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed. From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you, says the LORD of hosts. But you say, ‘How shall we return?’ Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing me. But you say, ‘How are we robbing you?’ In tithes and contributions. You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing me, even this whole nation. Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house, and test me now in this,” says the LORD of hosts, “to see whether I will not open the floodgates of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”

These verses suggest that when we give to God and the needy, we are ultimately pleasing God and ensuring that He blesses us in return.

Practical Considerations and Biblical Guidance

While tithes are a commitment to God, there are instances where additional giving can be both appropriate and beneficial. If you find that a portion of your tithes can help address urgent needs among the poor, it can be a righteous and compassionate action. However, it is important to remember that these contributions should be separate from your tithes.

The Bible does not restrict us from using our extra funds to help those in need. In fact, it encourages us to do so. The Bible also reminds us that God's blessing is contingent upon our obedience and our heart's commitment to Him. As such, it is important to be guided by the Holy Spirit and to seek wisdom in discerning how to use our resources for God's glory and the good of others.

Ultimately, the principle of being a cheerful giver is key. Matthew 9:13 states, "And he said to them, ‘Go and learn what this means, I desire mercy, and not sacrifice, for I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.’” A cheerful giver is someone who seeks to please God through their actions, not just through formal obligations like tithing.

Conclusion

While tithes are a specific form of giving that belongs to God and the church, there is no prohibition against using a portion of one's tithes to help the poor. The Bible encourages generosity and acknowledges the blessings that come from giving, both to God and to those in need. As we seek to serve God and help those in our communities, we should be guided by the principle of cheerful giving, always seeking to please God and fulfill His will.

Related Keywords

Tithing, Giving, Needy, Blessings, Contributions