Trusting People

The ultimate question is: “Who will I trust?” Our coins say, “In God we trust.” Tithing is an Old Testament concept found in the first book, Genesis, and the last book, Malachi. Abram gave Melchizadek the tithe (10% of all he possessed). God does not need our money. But we need to strip money of its power and make God our priority. We need to trust God in ALL our ways, including our finances. The New Testament describes the joy created by generosity. I love the story of Mary anointing Jesus’ feet with costly perfume only to be rebuked by Judas (John 12:1-8). She illustrates the fragrance of giving. It was unbridled devotion. The New Testament emphasizes generosity, not tithing, but the tithe is a good standard. I like the “10/10/80 plan.” Give the first 10 percent to the Lord. Designate the next 10 percent to long-term savings (retirement). Live on 80 percent. Do it long term. John Wesley taught the Methodists: “Gain all you can” (through honest labor). “Save all you can” (be frugal). “Give all you can” (do not spend or hoard). His words still apply.