How can we apply "in keeping with your income" to our tithing practices? Setting the Context “On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.” (1 Corinthians 16:2) A Principle of Proportional Giving • “In keeping with your income” links our giving directly to what God supplies. • Scripture elsewhere teaches proportionality: – “For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.” (2 Corinthians 8:12) – “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” (Proverbs 3:9) • The tithe (ten percent) remains a clear baseline (Leviticus 27:30); Paul’s phrase invites us to see that baseline in light of each person’s present income. How to Discern the Portion 1. Start with the tenth. 2. Evaluate current income honestly—gross, not net, reflects God’s full provision. 3. Consider additional, Spirit-led offerings above the tithe when income rises (Acts 11:29). 4. If income is temporarily reduced, the percentage stays the same even as the amount adjusts. Practical Steps for Weekly Faithfulness • First day of the week: build giving into payday or online scheduling. • “Set aside” implies intentional budgeting—list giving at the top, not the leftovers. • Keep records; this honors transparency and fuels gratitude for God’s supply. • Reassess whenever salary, bonuses, or other income sources change. Beyond Minimum Obedience toward Generous Grace • “Give, and it will be given to you.” (Luke 6:38) • “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly… God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7) • As love deepens, many believers choose 11%, 15%, or more, echoing the Macedonians who gave “beyond their ability.” (2 Corinthians 8:3) Promises Tied to Faithful, Proportional Giving • Malachi 3:10—open windows of heaven and overflowing blessing. • Proverbs 3:10—barns filled with plenty, vats bursting with new wine. • 2 Corinthians 9:8—“God is able to make all grace abound to you.” Encouragement to Begin Today • Calculate this week’s income. • Dedicate the first tenth (or more) before any bills are paid. • Trust God’s unchanging promise: He supplies both the seed and the harvest (2 Corinthians 9:10). |
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