What Does the Bible Say About Money and Tithing? Biblical Stewardship

The Bible teaches that God owns all things, and we are managers, or stewards, of His resources. Tithing, returning ten percent of our income to God, is a foundational practice of trust and worship. Rather than a burden, biblical stewardship is an invitation to partner with God’s mission, support the local church, and experience the freedom that comes from putting God first in our finances.

Relevant Bible Verses

Psalm 24:1 "The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it."

Malachi 3:10 "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."

Matthew 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."

2 Corinthians 9:7 "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."

Luke 21:1–4 "As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 'Truly I tell you,' he said, 'this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.'"

Who Really Owns Your Bank Account?

When we look at our bank accounts, it is easy to think, "I worked for this. This is mine."

But the Bible offers a different perspective.

Scripture tells us that God is the Creator and Owner of everything. Every breath we take, every talent we possess, and every dollar we earn ultimately comes from Him.

This is the foundation of biblical stewardship. We aren't the owners; we are the managers.

Think of it like a property manager looking after a beautiful home. They don’t own the house, but they are responsible for how it’s kept. They make sure the bills are paid and the garden is tended.

In the same way, God has entrusted us with resources to manage for His glory. When we shift our mindset from "ownership" to "stewardship," our relationship with money changes.

We stop clutching our wallets so tightly and start asking, "Lord, how do You want me to use what You’ve given me?"

Understanding the Tithe

The word "tithe" literally means "a tenth."

In the Old Testament, God’s people were instructed to give ten percent of their crops, livestock, and earnings back to God. This wasn't just a tax; it was an act of worship.

The tithe served a few major purposes:

1. It supported the Levites (the spiritual leaders) so they could focus on ministry.

2. It provided for the storehouse, ensuring there was food for those in need.

3. It reminded the people that God was their ultimate Provider.

In the book of Malachi, God even invites His people to "test Him" in this. It is the only place in the Bible where God says, "Try it and see if I don't bless you."

For us today, tithing is a starting point. It’s a way to put God first in our budget before we pay the mortgage, the car note, or the streaming subscriptions. By giving the first ten percent, we are saying, "God, I trust You to take care of the other ninety percent more than I trust myself to handle the full hundred."

Giving in the New Testament

Some people wonder if tithing is still required since we live under grace and not the Old Testament law.

While the New Testament doesn’t strictly enforce a "ten percent rule" with the same legalism, it actually raises the bar for generosity.

Jesus looked at a widow who gave two tiny coins and said she gave more than the millionaires. Why? Because she gave from her heart. She gave out of her sacrifice, not just her surplus.

The Apostle Paul tells us that God loves a "cheerful giver."

In the New Testament, we see the early church giving everything they had to make sure no one was in need. Stewardship isn't just about a percentage; it’s about a posture. It’s about being open-handed with what God has placed in our care.

If you are struggling to tithe, don't let guilt stop you from starting somewhere. Stewardship is a journey. Maybe you start at two percent or five percent and grow from there. The goal is to move toward a heart that loves to give because God gave so much to us.

Practical Stewardship: Managing the 90%

Biblical stewardship isn't just about what you give to the church on Sunday. It’s also about how you spend the rest of your money throughout the week.

Are you living within your means? Are you avoiding the trap of debt? Are you providing for your family?

The Bible has a lot to say about being wise with money. Proverbs is full of advice on avoiding "get rich quick" schemes and the importance of saving for the future.

Being a good steward means:

• Budgeting: Knowing where your money is going.

• Honesty: Earning your money through hard work and integrity.

• Generosity: Looking for opportunities to help others beyond just the tithe.

• Contentment: Being happy with what you have instead of always chasing "more."

When we manage our money well, we find peace. We aren't stressed about every bill because we know we are following God's principles.

Why Does It Matter?

At Boundless Online Church, we believe that how we handle our money is a reflection of our spiritual health.

As part of the Assemblies of God, we hold to 16 Fundamental Truths that guide our faith. One of these truths involves the support of the ministry and the tithe. We believe that giving is a primary way we support the spread of the Gospel and care for our community.

We help people meet Jesus and grow in faith online. That mission is fueled by the generosity of people who understand that their resources are meant for more than just personal comfort, they are meant for eternal impact.

A Simple Prayer for Wisdom

Lord, Thank You for every blessing in my life. I recognize that everything I have belongs to You. Please give me a heart of gratitude and the wisdom to manage my finances in a way that honors You. Help me to trust You as my Provider and to be a cheerful giver. Open my eyes to the needs around me and show me how I can use what You’ve given me to make a difference. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Next Steps

If you have questions about tithing or how to manage your finances biblically, we are here to walk with you.

• Dive Deeper: Watch our Sunday Sermons to hear more about living a life of faith and trust.

• Join the Conversation: Join us for a Clarion Call Bible Study where we dig into these topics together.

• Request Prayer: If you are facing a financial struggle and need someone to stand with you in faith, visit our Prayer Wall.

Need prayer? Text 1-901-213-7341 (message & data rates may apply). Not for emergencies.

Boundless Online Church is a ministry of FA Memphis.