Short on Cash? -- You're the First Solution

One of the things I often hear about (and see) is how many church planters (and pastors) do not tithe themselves. I once had a staff member that didn't tithe and this became a problem for people and even his own testimony. Skepticism and credibility began to surround and erode his ministry because he wasn't modeling a basic biblical principle in his own life. Malachi 3:8 says; "Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. "But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings." How sad it is when God's own men don't take the leadership and responsibility of modeling tithing before God's people. I've heard the excuses, and so have you (hopefully you don't make them); my time and ministry are my tithe. What I've found out over the years that this is usually a cover-up for poor personal financial management. This also uncovers further spiritual problems and biblical issues (1 Tim. 3: 2-5). How can we expect people within our church plants to give if we as leaders don't have our financial priorities and practices in order? There are several things that I have found and enjoy; first, tithing is an awesome blessing. God is faithful as you are faithful, even when tough times come along. Second, as you give your tithe God uses your testimony to inspire others to give; my children are a testimony to this fact. And finally, I believe that when God's leader within the church sacrificially gives then God uses His people to provide the resources needed for ministry. I've never known this not to be true. People used to ask me about how I challenged people to tithe, my response was always this; if you teach people to love God and put His principles and plans before yours, you'll never have a problem with giving. Need some cash in the church? Make sure you are responsible with your finances and that you're modeling giving before God's people. Will a man rob God? Unfortunately he will, I hope and pray that this will never be said of you.