Tithes are a controversial thing for many Christians considering that the New Testament does not specifically mention the giving of tithes as a rule or way of life. But the Bible clearly states in all simplicity what they are meant for.

Tithes are defined as "a tenth of everything one receives." The Old Testament law specifically commanded that Israelites should give their tithes for the purpose of providing "food in [God's] house." (see Malachi 3:10) It is because of this definition that some people don't give their tithes, because they think it all goes into the pastor's or church leader's belly and pockets. Still, tithes are more than just means to provide for those who care for the flock. They mean so much more.

Basics

Basically, tithes were really meant to provide for the temple workers, so that they would not need to go out and look for money to buy food to feed themselves. These temple workers – who in today's church are the full-time pastors and church workers – focused on the ministry of the Word and prayer. Faithfully and single-mindedly fulfilling their tasks meant that they had no more time and strength left to look for their own food, so they had to get their provisions from the tithes they received. (see Nehemiah 12:44-47, 13:10-12)

For those in the flock, these tithes are meant to check where their heart and devotion lie. The Lord Jesus said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:21)

This means that if the treasure and heart of a Christian belong to the Lord, tithing is not to be questioned anymore, because he will freely give tithes in obedient love for the Lord. In fact, 10 percent seems too small for those who love God.

It isn't extortion

Friend, if you think that God is after your money, you're wrong. Psalm 50:9-12 gives a detailed passage of why God doesn't need your money:

"But I do not need the bulls from your barns or the goats from your pens. For all the animals of the forest are mine, and I own the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird on the mountains, and all the animals of the field are mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell you, for all the world is mine and everything in it."

However, God wants to have our heart. It matters to Him that we give Him our wholehearted devotion, and this devotion doesn't only mean our time and talents, but also our treasure. God should be our treasure!

The Lord Jesus said, "You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money." (see Matthew 6:24)

If we are unable to let go of but a little portion of what we have so that we could prioritise the Lord and His work, we will never be able to give Him our whole lives!

Your tithes are for you

It's wrong to think that you are losing your money when you give tithes. In the first place, it is God who gave you the power to produce your income and earnings. It is He who gave you the strength to work, the company you are in, the work that you have and the skills you need to be successful in your job. (see Deuteronomy 8:18)

So what are your tithes? They are only meant to help you gauge your love for the Lord – because if you can't let go of that little penny in your hand, you will be totally unable to wholly follow Christ all your life. (see Matthew 16:24-28; Mark 10:21)