I recently came across an interesting article out of Relevant Magazine, asking this very question. As a missionary supported by the generosity of the Church, it perked my interest. Check it out here.
Some interesting numbers:
- Tithers make up only 10-25 percent of a normal congregation.
- Only 5 percent of the U.S. tithes, with 80 percent of Americans only giving 2 percent of their income.
- Christians are only giving at 2.5 percent per capita, while during the Great Depression they gave at a 3.3 percent rate.
The article unpacks some huge things that could be accomplished if the church tithed a full 10% ; some pretty staggering statistics.
What it hit on that was most important, though, was that giving is not necessarily a money issue as much as it is a heart issue. It's hard to trust the Lord with our money and when Jesus tells us "where your treasure is, your heart will be also", it brings conviction. Aimee and I tithe ourselves and it's not always an easy check to write.
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
2 Corinthians 9:7
I know that sending in a gift to GCM each month can be hard to let go of sometimes. I understand the pressures of finances and I want to thank you for giving cheerfully and for putting your treasure in furthering the kingdom. I don't take your gifts lightly and do my best to fulfill the responsibilities handed to me as a missionary here at Mizzou. Your support means the world to me.
Chris
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