We Give Thee But Thine Own

I'm a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as the Mormons. Each Sunday, I discuss some things related to my faith and what I believe. Regardless of your own beliefs, I hope this gives you a chance to get to know me and my religion a little better. For previous installments, click here.

I give ten percent of everything I earn to the Church. It's called tithing, and we're all expected to give a full ten percent. These funds help build up the church throughout the world, whether it's for actual buildings, or in financially supporting the activities of its members. 

By paying tithing, Church members show their gratitude to God for their blessings and their resolve to trust in the Lord rather than in material things. They also help further the work of the Lord in the earth, blessing others of God’s children with the opportunity to learn of Him and to grow in the gospel. 

This isn't a new principle. Even in the Old Testament, we read in Malachi 3:10 :

 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.

I'll be honest; it's not always the easiest principle to follow. I could think of many other things I could do with that money. Yet, I feel that it is blessed me. At the very least, being a full tithe payer allows me to attend the temple and when I am faithful in paying every month, I feel like I'm still okay financially. Personally, I am grateful for the opportunity to give an honest tithe and thank the Lord for everything He has given me.