What does the Bible say about tithing?

Scripture teaches that tithing is a sacred practice of returning a tenth of our blessings to God as an act of faith, obedience, and gratitude. Both the Bible and the Book of Mormon emphasize that when we honor the Lord with our tithes, He opens the windows of heaven to pour out spiritual and temporal blessings. Ultimately, giving should be done with a joyful and willing heart, acknowledging that everything we possess ultimately belongs to God.

Relevant Scripture

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. — Malachi 3:10 (KJV)

God promises abundant spiritual and temporal blessings when His people faithfully bring their tithes to Him.

And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord's: it is holy unto the Lord. — Leviticus 27:30 (KJV)

Establishes under the Law of Moses that a tenth of one's increase belongs to God and is considered sacred.

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. — 2 Corinthians 9:7 (KJV)

Emphasizes the attitude of the heart in giving, focusing on willingness, love, and gratitude.

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house; and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of Hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive it. — 3 Nephi 24:10 (Book of Mormon)

The resurrected Jesus Christ commanded the Nephites to record Malachi's words, reinforcing the eternal importance of the law of tithing.

And it was this same Melchizedek to whom Abraham paid tithes; yea, even our father Abraham paid tithes of one-tenth part of all he possessed. — Alma 13:15 (Book of Mormon)

Shows that Abraham observed tithing anciently as an act of devotion and covenant faithfulness.

A Prayer for This

Heavenly Father, thank You for generously providing for all of my needs and trusting me with Your blessings. Help me to cultivate a grateful, obedient, and cheerful heart as I return to You what is Yours. May my giving help build Your kingdom and bring comfort to those in need. Amen.

Reflect

How does viewing tithing as an act of trust and gratitude rather than an obligation change the way I approach my finances?

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