The 3 Most Common Tithing MistakesSample

In this plan, we are going to look at three common mistakes we can run into with tithing. Each day we will learn about a specific mistake, and then examine how we can avoid it.

Let’s jump into…

Mistake #1: Giving Leftovers Instead of Firstfruits

One of the most common tithing mistakes is giving God our leftovers rather than our firstfruits.

In Malachi 3:8-10, God challenges His people: "'Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ In tithes and offerings... Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”

When we give our firstfruits, we're demonstrating trust in God's provision and acknowledging that all we have comes from Him.

The New Testament reinforces this principle as well.

In 1 Corinthians 16:2, Paul advises, "On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made."

To me, this makes it clear that giving should be a planned, priority action, not an afterthought.

However, it's crucial to remember that God cares more about our hearts than the exact amount.

2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

To avoid this mistake, consider these practical steps:

1. Make giving the first "bill" you pay when you get paid.
2. Set up automatic transfers to ensure consistency if that helps you.
3. Pray over your giving, asking God to help you trust Him with your finances.

Remember, the goal isn't to give out of guilt or fear, but from a heart of gratitude and trust in God's provision.

I know it may be difficult at times to prioritize giving, especially in our difficult seasons, but never forget that our God is faithful! And when we step out boldly in our trust in Him through our giving, He will never let us down!

I’ll see you tomorrow for mistake #2.