The Gift that keeps on Giving

Today I am going to write about a subject that is a sensitive one for most folks.  I feel compelled to write about this today because  I just finished reading the chapter titled, The Ancient Law of Prosperity,  from Catherine Ponders’ wonderful book:  The Dynamic Laws of Prosperity, and secondly I saw something today that sadden me regarding this subject.  Please note that  I make a habit of reading from one of a number of Catherine Ponder’s books everyday.  Often times what I read that day hits right on the money (forgive the pun) on an issue that I may be struggling with or something I need an answer to.  I will open the book and right there is the answer.  The constant sychoroncity of this continues to amaze me.  Catherine Ponder, as a minister of the Unity Church, references everything she writes from scripture in the Bible.  The Ancient Law of Prosperity is the law of tithing. 

The second reason I feel compelled to write about this today is because I know that tithing works and knowing how powerful this practice is, I also know that many folks find tithing a subject they’d rather avoid talking about, thinking about or doing.  Today, as I attended services at Living Hope Church (www.livinghopechurch.com), it seemed like every seat in the place was filled.  In fact we had standing room only in a very large auditorium.  It’s a very popular church and the fellowship is a kind and nuturing one.  However, when the “offering buckets” were passed about and it came to me (the last in a very long seating aisle) there were only a couple of envelopes to be seen in the bucket. 

Now I realize that money is tight, the economy being what it is, but I also know about the miracle of tithing.  Tithing means “ten” in ancient language.  This means that ten percent, or a tenth of all, is what is considered a “tithe” and it is meant to be provided as a gift of gratitude back to God.  In return for this ”tenth of all” God promises to “open the windows of heaven and flood you with blessing after blessing” Malachi 3.10 . 

The true purpose of this practice of tithing has been dealt a powerful blow by what I would call traditional religion.  Because they have failed to make their congregation realize that by providing a “tenth of all” their lives will be prospered.  Prospered not just in the after life where it appears most religion focuses the reward will be provided, but right here on earth, right here, right now in the present. 

Now be honest, if you were told by your financial advisor or your stockbroker that if you invested 10% of your income into this fabulous investment vehicle call “The Tenth Enterprises Inc” and you would see incredible returns on your money, that in fact you would never loose a dime again in your life from this investment – you’d be saying “Where do I sign up!”.  Yet, this is what God promises to those who tithe on a consistent basis to those entities who provide you the spiritual nourishment that feeds your soul.  That’s it.  That’s the whole deal. 

What has happened to turn people off on the idea of tithing, unfortunately, is that most churches focus on what that money means for their own financial good and they never put a lot focus on the “God Guarantee” part of the deal.  I can speak from personal experience that tithing does work. There are a few rules you have to understand about tithing.  First, it has to be a consistent practice, not one done just when you feel like it.  Secondly, you can’t dictate how that money is used.  Unlike a friend I knew many years ago who provide a substantial tithe to his church then got upset because the Pastor never sent him a “thank you note”.  Tithing must be done from a no-strings attached heart. Third, your tithe should go to the organzation or individual where you are spiritually nourished, not your favorite charitable organization.  Donate to them too but know this is not the tithe God references in the Bible.  Lastly, your tithe needs to be given with the expectation that you will receive God’s good in return.  If you have a hang up about receiving (believe me there are a few of us out there with that problem) get over it.  Be ready to receive the abundance that is meant to be yours. 

If, dear reader, you have a positive story you’d like to share regarding your tithing experiences please let me know about them.  I would love to share with the world!