Raising Generous Kids: Teaching the Importance of Tithing

Teaching your kids to tithe is a valuable lesson. Learn how to instill this biblical principle in your children & why it's important. Start early & lead by example!

As parents, we want to teach our children the value of money and how to manage it wisely. But as Christians, we also want to instill in them the importance of giving back to God through tithing. Tithing is a biblical principle that teaches us to give a portion of our income to the church or to those in need. It’s a way of acknowledging that everything we have comes from God and that we trust Him to provide for us.

In this article, we’ll explore how to teach your kids to tithe and why it’s important.

What is Tithing?

Tithing means giving a tenth of your income to the church or to those in need. It’s a principle that’s found throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament to the New Testament. In fact, Jesus Himself talked about tithing in the New Testament.

Malachi 3:10 says, “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.”

Tithing is not just about giving money; it’s also about trusting God to provide for your needs. When you tithe, you’re acknowledging that everything you have comes from God and that you’re willing to give a portion of it back to Him.

Why is Tithing Important?

Tithing is important for several reasons. First, it’s a way of acknowledging that everything we have comes from God. We’re simply stewards of the resources that He’s given us. Tithing is a way of saying, “God, I trust You to provide for me, and I’m willing to give back to You a portion of what You’ve given me.”

Second, tithing is a way of supporting the work of the church. When we give our tithes, we’re helping to fund the ministries and programs of the church. This includes things like missions, outreach, and youth programs. Without the support of tithes, many churches would struggle to carry out their work.

Third, tithing is a way of helping those in need. When we give our tithes, we’re also helping to support those who are less fortunate than us. This includes things like helping to feed the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, and supporting ministries that help to provide clean water and education to those in need.

How to Teach Your Kids to Tithe

Now that we understand what tithing is and why it’s important, let’s explore how to teach your kids to tithe.

1. Start Early

It’s never too early to start teaching your kids about money and tithing. Even young children can begin to understand the concept of giving. Start by giving your child a small allowance and encourage them to save a portion of it and give a portion of it to the church or to those in need.

2. Lead By Example

Children learn best by watching their parents. If you’re not tithing yourself, it’s unlikely that your children will develop the habit of tithing. Make sure that you’re setting a good example by tithing regularly and talking to your children about why it’s important.

3. Make it a Family Affair

Tithing should be a family affair. Involve your children in the process of giving. Let them help you choose where to give your tithes and encourage them to give a portion of their own money as well.

4. Teach Them the Principle of Giving

It’s important that children understand the principle of giving. Teach them that giving is not just about money, but it’s also about giving of our time, talents, and resources. Encourage them to look for ways that they can give back to the church and to those in need.

5. Use Visual Aids

Visual aids can be a helpful tool when teaching children about tithing. Create a chart or a graph that shows how much money you’re giving and where it’s going. This can help children to see the impact that their giving is having.

6. Encourage Them to Give Cheerfully

It’s important that children learn to give cheerfully, without feeling like they’re being forced to give. Encourage them to give out of love and gratitude for what God has given them.

7. Celebrate Their Giving

When your child gives their tithes, make sure to celebrate their giving. Let them know how proud you are of them and how their giving is making a difference.

FAQs

Q: What if my child doesn’t want to tithe?
A: It’s important to remember that tithing is a personal decision. Encourage your child to pray about it and to ask God to help them understand the importance of giving. You can also talk to them about the principle of giving and why it’s important.

Q: Should I give my child an allowance?
A: Giving your child an allowance can be a helpful tool when teaching them about money and tithing. It gives them a sense of responsibility and helps them to learn how to manage their money wisely.

Q: What if I can’t afford to tithe?
A: Tithing is not about the amount that you give, but about the heart behind the giving. If you’re unable to give a full tithe, give what you can and trust God to provide for your needs.

Q: Can I choose where to give my tithes?
A: Yes, you can choose where to give your tithes. However, it’s important to pray and seek God’s guidance when making this decision.

Q: Is tithing only about money?
A: No, tithing is not just about money. It’s also about giving of our time, talents, and resources. When we give to others, we’re acknowledging that everything we have comes from God and that we’re willing to give back to Him.