Beyond Tithing: Why I Teach My Children About Generosity Instead

Discover why this Christian author chooses not to teach her children to tithe and instead focuses on teaching generosity and stewardship.

As a parent, teaching my children about money and finances is one of my top priorities. One of the topics that frequently comes up in discussions about money is tithing. Tithing is the practice of giving a tenth of one's income to the church or other charity. While many Christians believe tithing is an important part of their faith, I have chosen not to teach my children to tithe. In this article, I will explain why.

The Problem with Tithing

The first problem with tithing is that it is not Biblically mandated for Christians. The practice of tithing comes from the Old Testament, where the Israelites were required to give a tenth of their crops and livestock to the Levites (Numbers 18:21-24). However, in the New Testament, there is no commandment to tithe. Instead, we are encouraged to give generously and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

Furthermore, tithing can become legalistic and turn into a burden rather than a joy. Many churches teach that tithing is required for salvation, which is not only false but also puts unnecessary pressure on believers. Tithing can also create a sense of guilt or shame for those who are unable to give a full ten percent of their income.

Teaching Generosity Instead

Instead of teaching my children to tithe, I choose to teach them about generosity and stewardship. The Bible tells us that everything we have belongs to God (Psalm 24:1), and we are called to be good stewards of what He has given us. This means using our money, time, and resources wisely and for His glory.

I encourage my children to give as they are able and to do so with a cheerful heart. This may mean giving more than ten percent of their income, or it may mean giving less. The important thing is that they are giving out of love and gratitude, not out of obligation.

Finding Other Ways to Serve

Another problem with tithing is that it can become the only way in which we serve God. While giving financially is important, there are many other ways in which we can serve God and our community. I encourage my children to find ways to volunteer their time, talents, and resources to help others. This may mean volunteering at a homeless shelter, donating clothes to a local charity, or simply being a listening ear to a friend in need.

By finding other ways to serve, my children learn that generosity is not just about giving money, but about giving of ourselves. They learn that we can all make a difference in the world, no matter how small our contributions may seem.

FAQs

1. Isn't tithing mentioned in Malachi 3:8-10?

Yes, Malachi 3:8-10 does mention tithing. However, it is important to remember that this passage is directed specifically to the Israelites and their disobedience in giving to the Levites. It is not a commandment for Christians to tithe.

2. Doesn't tithing show our obedience to God?

While giving generously is important, obedience to God is not measured by our financial contributions. We are called to obey God in all areas of our lives, not just in how much we give to the church.

3. Shouldn't we give to the church to support its ministries?

Yes, giving to the church is important to support its ministries. However, this does not mean we have to give a full ten percent of our income. We are called to give as we are able and to do so with a cheerful heart.

4. What if I can't afford to give financially?

Giving financially is just one way to be generous. If you are unable to give financially, there are many other ways in which you can be generous, such as volunteering your time or talents to help others.

5. Shouldn't we teach our children to tithe so they learn the importance of giving?

While tithing can be a way to teach children about giving, it is not the only way. By teaching our children about generosity and stewardship, we can help them develop a heart for giving that goes beyond simply giving money.