When you enter into a covenant with God through faith in Jesus Christ, you’re stepping into a powerful, two-way relationship. It begins with what Scripture calls the “word of faith”:
“The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” — Romans 10:8-10
From the beginning, God involves both our hearts and our words. He sent His Son to redeem us—and our confession of that truth brings us into a relationship with Him. That covenant comes with spiritual privileges and responsibilities.
“For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” — 1 Corinthians 6:20
As covenant people, we’re called to reflect His ownership in how we live—including how we handle our resources. The Lord has revealed principles in His Word that invite His blessing into our lives. One such principle is this:
“Honor the LORD with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine.” — Proverbs 3:9-10
That’s more than poetic language—it’s a divine formula for abundance. When we give God our first and best, He responds with supernatural provision.
Early in our marriage, Paula and I didn’t always tithe consistently. At the time, we didn’t fully understand the promises in Malachi 3, where God says:
“…And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground…”
We eventually realized: it’s not about what we can spare—it’s about honoring God first, trusting Him to multiply what remains.
Some say, “I just can’t afford to tithe right now.” But God never asked for leftovers. He asked for the first tenth—so He can bless the rest. It’s a step of faith, not a financial calculation.
Think of the widow in 1 Kings 17:10–16. When Elijah asked her for a piece of bread, she was preparing for what she thought would be her last meal. But she chose obedience over fear—and God sustained her household with a never-ending supply of flour and oil. The miracle came after she gave.
Economic hardship isn’t new to God. Inflation, fixed incomes, rising costs—He knows it all. But His promises don’t change with the times.
Today, fewer than 20% of Christians in the U.S. consistently tithe. That statistic should challenge us. If we truly believe God’s Word, why would we neglect one of His clearest invitations to blessing?
So here’s the challenge: Trust Him. Don’t wait until it feels comfortable. Start now—by setting aside the first 10% as holy unto the Lord. When you give cheerfully, in faith and obedience, God will show Himself faithful.
“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7
If you want to live under the full benefits of God’s covenant, honor Him with your increase—and watch what He will do.
With God, nothing is impossible.
Dale Black
I been having this problem about not having enough to pay my bills and I’m currently & stubbornly giving . Why is it so hard ?
Dear Maria,
I’m sorry to hear of the struggle you’re going through. First, you are being obedient to God’s Word in your giving, so that is wonderful. Possibly the reason it is still so difficult is that you may not be exercising your faith correctly for the blessing that comes from faithful giving. Have you had the opportunity to read Atomic Faith yet? The ebook is the easiest and least expensive way to read the book. You will finally really understand what faith is and how it works. The Bible says, it is impossible to please God without faith, so if you haven’t understood it and used it with your tithes, that may be the reason you are still struggling so much. In faith, you may also need to be looking for the opportunities God may provide for other sources of income or blessing. Stay alert, grateful, and trust God with your faith. He’ll help lift you above the struggle. And keep up the good work of giving with a cheerful heart of thanksgiving and praise.
Well written.
Love this!
All glory and praise to the Lord!!
Make friends for yourselves for Eternity by means of the Wealth of unrighteousness so that when it runs out they will welcome you into Eternal dwellings.
Amen. Thank you for sharing this powerful reminder. Everything in this life is temporary, but what we invest in eternity truly lasts. When our resources, time, and lives are used to point people to Christ, God redeems even what this world calls “unrighteous wealth” for eternal purpose. May we all stay focused on what matters most — souls, truth, and the kingdom of God. Thank you for adding this insight.