I’ve touched on tithing while in debt before but it’s time to revisit this topic. To directly answer whether you should tithe while in debt – the answer is, no. You should not tithe while in debt. We should focus on our entire stewardship path which includes spending, saving, and giving. I explain why this is important moving forward.
George Müller offers a lesson about tithing while in debt
I recently came across an article on George Müller. If you are not familiar with him, he founded an orphanage in England and helped care for over 10,000 orphans in his lifetime. He also established 117 schools. A truly remarkable person. We can learn a lot about giving and debt by learning about this man and his ministry.
George Müller launched his orphanages on freewill donations. Below is a story about a donation he received from a donor that was in financial trouble. His response is not like one you will witness in modern times.
January 1, 1840. About one o’clock this morning, I received a sealed envelope with some money in it for the orphans. The individual who gave it was deeply in debt, and I was aware that she had been repeatedly asked by her creditors for payment. I resolved to return the envelope without opening it because no one has a right to give while in debt. I did this although I knew there was not enough on hand to meet the expenses of the day.
https://www.georgemuller.org/devotional/january-1-1840
I often hear a question wondering how churches can be supported without enforcing a tithe. The answer to this question is not a mystery. Muller was a man who did not rely on tithing to fund his entire ministry. Thousands, if not millions of ministries thrive on the support of freewill donations. This is besides the point of the article, but worthy of mentioning.
George Muller lived on integrity and faith. He expected others to live their life with these principles as well. He understood that stewardship is a holistic mindset. Debt and generosity are not exclusive to one another. It’s important to understand that if God wants a ministry to grow, he will provide the means for it. He’s much bigger than your measly 10% that you feel guilted to give. It’s not about you and your feelings. God’s reputation is more important.
Is Debt Wrong for Christians?
Using the word “wrong” is too vague, since we really want to know if debt is a sin for Christians. No, debt is not wrong or sinful for Christians. There are no laws in the bible that explicitly command us to stay out of debt. The error on our part is sinful desires or trusting bad advice prior to the debt. Debt is only a symptom. We should always address the cause whether it creates debt or not.
We should not make debt the object of our focus. Some of us could fall into the trap of being lackadaisical in our spending and stewardship management because we don’t see any symptoms yet. Debt can be like cancer that could take years of poor habits to finally catch up to you.
The book of Proverbs offers a lot of advice and wisdom, but at what point do we distinguish between breaking God’s command and not following biblical advice? Proverbs 22:26-27 is a popular verse that comes to mind.
This is where principles come into play. God wants investors, not givers. Remember the parable where the master gave silver to three servants and went on a journey? Two out of three increased the master’s wealth, while the third buried it. The master rebuked the third servant regardless of receiving 100% of it back.
We all start off in this world in debt. Nothing we have is our own. We are borrowing what God has given us including our own bodies. With it, he expects us to invest in his kingdom.
There are a lot of opinions about whether Christians should have zero debt. I am just one of those opinions. If you have unsecured debt, then you need to focus on paying that off instead of focusing on tithing or giving. Part of paying that off is making sure you behave with your spending in general. If debt is costing you less than your investments are paying, then it makes sense to make sure you are giving before investing.
Overall, this is a very simple way of looking at a complex topic. Everyone is different and every situation is as well. The question I ask myself is will this decision improve the lives of others? If the answer is “yes”, then more often than not, you’re taking the right step.
Is Tithing right for Christians?
Giving 10% (tithe) is not required of Christians. Tithing wasn’t even required from Israel. There are many articles that explain why, so I don’t want to go into depth here. I do want to point out that the poor in Israel received tithes – they did not pay them.
Although we aren’t commanded to give 10% of our earnings to God, he does expect us to be givers. Don’t look at the requirement to not tithe as an opportunity to be stingy.
In the Old Testament, God required Israelite farmers and herdsmen to give the tithe regardless if they were in debt or not. This is not so for us because the Holy Spirit guides us under a different covenant. There is no absolute requirement to give a tithe regardless of your situation.
Tithing does not make a wrong a right
We cannot give in order to absolve ourselves from the stain of debt. Making sure your church ministry you support is in the black while you go in the red is unwise thinking. Do not believe the lie that you will be compounding your sins if you don’t give while in debt.
I assume that most of us get into debt due to foolish purchase decisions and not preparing for unexpected costs with savings. So, for most of us, the fault lies in us. Paying bills instead of giving money to your church is not an additional sin on top of poor stewardship decisions.
If you still make unnecessary purchases and also do not give while in debt, then it’s not the lack of giving that’s the problem. It’s a lack of perspective about what God expects of us as stewards.
Give in other ways
While you are in debt, it does not mean that you sit on your hands. There are other ways to give. Here are only a few:
- Serve
- Give something you own to someone who needs it more than you.
- Send words of encouragement
We all have something other than money and possessions that you can give away. It could be knowledge, a talent, or a hobby that could be used to give. We are all functioning parts of the body. Giving money to your church so a few members can take on the entire job of the body is not how it’s supposed to be. We are all participators.
Get a plan to get out of debt
That’s it. Get a plan to get out of debt. Maybe I’ll write up an article on this topic one day, but for years of my life, I was in debt. Besides a mortgage on my home, I am debt free. I couldn’t express how much anxiety and stress has been lifted off my shoulder.
If you get out of debt, you probably wouldn’t need to look up articles about whether we should give while in debt. I’d like to hear stories about others and how they’ve been freed to give willingly and freed from the bondage of debt. Please share your story below.
This is a great article, especially the parts about not tithing when in debt but still making frivolous purchases, and alternate ways to tithe.
First – If you don’t get out of debt you soon won’t be able to tithe at all. You cannot take care of others if you don’t take care of yourself. The same applies to a church and congregation, or even an entire nation.
Second – HOWEVER!; You may be in deep debt because you aren’t tithing. Tithing requires some budgeting skills, so maybe figuring out how to tithe while in serious debt is God’s way of teaching you better stewardship of your finances. And as this article states; There are other ways to give other than financially. And remember that the widow “..gave all she had.”
God’s Peace to All
Thank you so much George for this article. I have learned about being a good steward even when you are in debts.
I am a Christian and overly indebted because of my poor financial decisions. I am working, but not getting much to pay the big installments of my debts. I sometimes miss monthly payments and that is caused by not being a good steward. My financial problems are increasing instead of decreasing and that is causing other problems in my life. I am not happy, I am miserable. Then I thought maybe the reason I am going through all of this is because it’s been long since I have not giving back tithe. I stopped tithing because I want to pay debts. I took a decision two weeks back that I am going to give back tithe as from this month irrespective of my financial limitations, then God will see what’s going to happen with me.
My partner just told me I made a poor decision…. Then I found this article that enlightens more of what he was telling me. All I need is to be a good steward and pay my debts instead of filling guilty of not giving back. I can give in other ways and focus on paying off my debts. Fortunately I send the tithe money to him before it can go to church. Now he can bring it back so that it goes where it supposed to go.
I do need help. If you can refer me to someone who can help me. I will appreciate.
CAP. Christians Against Poverty are an excellent place to find help
I personally appreciate your insight into tithing.
I have made selfish financial decisions and tried tithing 10% of my gross income.
I am extremely grateful and thankful for what God has given me. Thank you for reminding me there are other ways to give!!
This is the answer that makes sense, yet this is my first time to read it. I feel guilty for giving little or no money at church. But between a mix of poor decisions and life in general, I have way too much debt. Giving to the church does not fit in my budget, unless I want to watch my credit card debt grow that much faster.
I thought we were supposed to give what we can with a happy heart. My heart is happy when I serve in different ways. My heart is stressed when I give more than the occasional $10-30, because when I am in so much debt – I am not really even sure what is mine to give.
All answers are in the Bible and I find it odd tht NOT ONE BIBLE VERSE is present in this article. The Bible says to give your FIRST, not because its convenient, not because u feel guilty but out of a willing and loving heart. He NEVER wants you to tithe out of guilt yet out of an understanding of family, community, relationship, love, faithfulness. God WANTS you to test Him, watch Him work thru ur finances, BY A MIRACLE U WILL MAKE IT, WATCH HIM MOVE, THTS HIS PROMISE!!!! It is truly IMPORTANT when we have any questions about our walk with God to refer to HIS WORD ALWAYS!!! GOD BLESS YOU ALL, TRUST HIM, HE WILL PROVIDE IN WAYS UNIMAGINABLE!!!! PRAISE HIM THRU UR STORM ALSO FOR GOD IS GOOD, CONSISTENT, LOVING AND FAITHFUL!!! SUCH IS LOVE, SUCH IS RELATIONSHIP!!!
First fruits was in reference to the children of Israel who had grains and fruits to give off their crops. We have to really pay attention to the scriptures because what has been preached many times about first fruits had nothing to do with money. It was a commandment for those individuals at that time. God said His people perish due to a lack of knowledge. This is why we have to deeply seek God about His word. Lean not to our own understanding but in all our ways acknowledge Him. I’m not saying we can’t give however God never said give Him our first, it’s been preached that way but the scriptures we’re referring to those group of people at that time for a reason.
Wonderfully written. Thank you Trevi for your wisdom and insight.
There is a Bible verse present in the article, it’s Proverbs 22:26-27. ??
Hallelujah! This response made my heart glad and peace flooded thru me so I know its the Lord. thank you for being bold and sharing this! I was thinking it and the questions started popping up in my head after the reading the article. the enemy tried to bring confusion but your response brought freedom. thank you! gonna explore the Bible more!!!
I agree with you. I don’t understand where this not giving to God what is God’s has come from and I think it is dangerous. I also believe God knows our hearts and most of all wants us to be smart about money and recognize that everything we have and get comes from Him. so it shouldn’t be hard to give back to him in love, and discipline and generosity. All I know is that when I have been at my worst in debt and not giving to God, it only got worse and worse. But when I keep my commitment to tithe even while struggling and trust that God is in control and keeps his promises, my situation improves and abundance makes its way to me again in direct measure to my being obedient and acting in faith. Giving back to God and trusting him to see you through and even bless you beyond what you need is all over the Bible. then the lessons about handling those blessings and being a good steward and correcting the ways we have messed up with money. but not one place in the Bible does it say to stop honoring God with our tithes and offerings. The more we give, the more we are cared for in return and we don’t give out of expectation, but gratitude. God keeps his promises. Every time I think we aren’t going to make it this month… some random money turns up that is just the amount we need to make it through and we live a full life. we are working on breaking down our debt with God, but not by withholding from him. This messaging is all over lately and it is really concerning.
Long story short for me, I tithe while in debt. Why? The debt is something I personally incurred and is therefore not the fault of God or a reason or excuse to not tithe. I have not found it a hardship to do so. In fact. in spite of, giving has opened countless doors to good health, good relationships, good marriage, job promotion and even monetary increase. I would say the word itself does not change on the principle of tithing. If you struggle with debt, talk to God about your personal finance situation and let him minister to you. He never leads you wrong. Blessings.
Thank you for this Truth.
so very true.
We are called to live a life pleasing to God (2 Cor 5:9). It pleases God greatly when we advance his Kingdom here on Earth (Matt 6:10). This can look like a wide variety of things and is unique to each of us, his children (1 Cor 12:27). On the topic of giving, let’s consider Paul’s advice to the Corinthians…
“Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, ‘They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.’ For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!” ??(2 Cor 9?:?6?-?15?)
I thank you for the writings and interpretation of tithing.
I think the issue here is faithfulness. It is like give what belongs to Ceascer and give what belongs to God. Faith derives from honesty or own up to agreement or convenient. Everything in the world belongs to God even state.
God through the teachings of his Son Jesus that we should love each other. love is built on peace and the foundation of peace is truth.
The governments through its democratic decisions that are equal to every citizens set up laws that prescribe taxes for each of us. And we are monitored to comply. However, in churches as well as a body of Christ we have to give money in a form determined by the Ministry of the particular domination. Like different countries have different tax regimes and are binding. if any one from any country is a visitor to any country is bound the laws that governs such country.
The principle is the same. Taxes are based on gross income like value added tax. So as tithing is based on income and is deemed as an equitable way. It is based on value. in the New Testament the value of income was questioned by Apostle to a husband that of is that a value of what you sold your land.
As well if you are not earning you are poor you are not expected to offer cash other than other services that you are able to perform.
I am in agreement that you must pay off your depth before you join the church that require tithe so that you are ready to meet requirements of your convenient. That is why joint the body of Christ through his church is voluntary. In other words I must clear my debts before I become a member.
For instance if I am employed when I receive my income it is already tax deducted alternative I must submit such or in business tax before profit.
I think tithe is the only equitable way. Offering beyond giving tithe is voluntary. Tax and tithe are not voluntary but giving is voluntary.
So your church rules are not voluntary are a must. But it is voluntary to join the church that gives tithe. The debate in my humble opinion seeks to establish a voluntary system within establishments. I think churches are using both Old and New Testament. Jesus modified laws but has not changed the principle than God existed from the beginning. What I think one should do is to be faithful to the rules that are governing in the institution of belonging
I have debt that isn’t mine. I’m helping pay bills for family members who can’t pay them: car repairs for an elder sister who had her social security drafted to pay her daughter’s car payment; and phone bills for both of them. Add to that a hospital bill balance, after insurance paid. I was working hard to get out of debt (besides my mortgage) and to stay out. I was finally in a better place, and working with a financial advisor. Then someone hit my vehicle and it was totaled. Thank God for no injuries. I received a settlement but had to add to it for maintenance and repairs on my Mom’s vehicle to drive it. I was blessed not to have to buy a car, but it was still additional debt. I “pay” my tithe no matter what, and I feel guilty even if I think about not giving it. But this extra debt is a struggle_ making it difficult to buy things I need, as I always pay my tithe and my bills first. I’m grateful I can pay my bills and I’m trying to keep things in a solid place. But this is difficult. I just don’t know if I can do it to get the extra debt paid off, but I have considered asking my pastor if it’s okay to not give my full tithe until I’m caught back up. What if God withheld His grace and mercy? There are so many differing opinions, different recommendations or guidance.
I believe you are doing the right thing, you pay your bills and your tithe first. But the bad thing you are doing is taking care of others when you can’t afford it. I understand you care about your family, and if you can help them fantastic, but if you are in debt how are you paying their bills? They should be responsible for their own actions and needs, you are not their savior. Codependency is a sin.
I like to use the phrase “returning my tithe” because according to Malachi 3:10 it does not belong to me anyway. I appreciate God’s grace and mercy in my life. Every time I have received a benign result from the doctors, I am reminded of this passage of scripture. I have a place to live and I am not starving. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. I will return my tithe while in debt and when I am out of debt, I will heed God’s commands and not get myself in this situation again
I agree that the tithe is mosaic law and as followers of Christ, we are now longer under the law. Yet, if this viewpoint is indeed biblical, then I have questions for those not tithing cheerfully or giving what they can while repaying debt:
* Have you cancelled your cable and streaming apps?
* Have you completely stopped going out to dinner?
* Have you stopped vacations?
* Have you stopped extraneous spending on fun things?
* Are you driving a 20-year old car versus buying a “new or newer” car?
* I could go on and on with these questions.
If the answer to any of these questions is “No” then aren’t you “stealing” from God, being disobedient and not being a good steward?
Very good points. Someone fell these are must have. I went 2 years with out internet or cable., but paid tithes. Things got better. Priorities!
My answer to all these is yes. I grew up with a strong Christian background that believes and pay tithe. But since finding myself in this serious financial situation caused by my hubby’s wrong financial decision and unheedednees to my advice, I have had to struggle with even the basic things of life like clothing, good shelter and even have to skip meals with my children on some days to meet up with paying off app loans that have accumulated and due dates which if not paid begins to add excessive interest.
Hubby is just trying to get back on his foot haven finally taken my advice, amidst the enormous app loans.
But now, I am torn between paying my debts and paying tithes. I don’t know what to do.