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How is Tithing a Kind of Training Wheels for Generosity?
When God says “test me” he is saying “trust me.”
Learning to Ride a Bike
One of the great joys of fatherhood was teaching my children how to ride a bicycle. If you remember, the process typically begins with training wheels, which allow the new cyclist to learn the skill of balancing the bike while peddling at the same time.
Moving from a tricycle to a bike with training wheels is a step up. But the day we really look forward to is when the training wheels come off. That’s when we record the video and celebrate. Because when the training wheels come off the real fun begins as they now are able to ride with much greater freedom and joy.
But training wheels serve an important purpose. They provide stability, security, and direction. While those tiny cylindrical attachments limit freedom, they also build the rider’s confidence as the child learns to trust the process.
Generosity works like that.
In the Old Testament, God gave Israel generosity training wheels called tithing. Since tithe means ten percent, to tithe is to give 10% of one’s total income to financially support the mission of God on earth.
