Plant a Seed ... Get a Harvest ... Managing your Christian FinancesWhenever you talk about Christian finances or just plain money in the same breath as being a Christian, going to church, or (heaven forbid), tithing, it hits people where they live...right in the wallet. And somehow Christian giving is seen as almost a separate issue from attending church or even having a relationship with God. But believe it or not, they are not two different topics. Being a Christian is an all inclusive thing. It isn't reserved for those areas of life where you think you "need prayer". And it certainly isn't reserved for one just hour on Sunday where you have God in this little box that you open once a week and then close up again on your way out the church doors.
And contrary to popular opinion, God is even interested in what you do with your money and how you manage your Christian finances. Getting out of debt is one of the best things you can do. So why do I have to give?Christian giving is an extension of the ongoing relationship you're building with God every single day. If you talk the talk, then you're required to walk the walk. There is no way to say you're a Christian and then refuse to do the thing Christ talks about constantly...to give of yourself and your money. God's currency isn't the same as our currency. In fact, His rules are completely opposite of the world's rules. In our world, when you give something away it's gone. But in God's universe, when you give something away to help someone else, you're planting it as seed for a harvest to come up in your own life. Over and over, the Bible talks about the concept of seed, time, and harvest.
God's Word says He wants 10% of what you have. Please know that God doesn't need your money. He can do all things without you or your resources. The truth is, you NEED to give as a part of your commitment and ongoing relationship with God. God is faithful. When you offer your 10% tithe, God will "open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing that there won't be room enough to receive it." Messy finances seem to be the norm these days. But it's never too late to take steps to turn things around. And a huge part of that process is to start giving. It may be a small amount at first, but God will honor that first step. 
Bob Smith, a CPA and Christian Financial Advisor, has agreed to answer your questions on the site RIGHT NOW. And, of course, here are some GREAT Books.
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