Why Should I Be Concerned About Being Generous? Top Ten Reasons It’s all mine anyway. Why should I give? I give elsewhere. Tithing is not in the New Testament. God will provide through other people My gifts don’t really count. I don’t trust preachers. I only give to projects I like. I have no control over my finances. I will tithe when I can afford it. I’m afraid to. (Charles Stone) Remember Our **commitment** is first to God then to others (church). Commitment is not **automatic**. Commitment always begins **somewhere**. The very essence of worship is to return to God what he has entrusted to you. He knows what we have to give. He knows what we give. He cares about our giving. He knows what we do from surplus and from sacrifice. 4 Levels of Giving Obligation Convenience Generosity Sacrifice Example of the Old Testament Tithe/Tithing 10-23.5% Before Abraham Before Law The tithe is the floor and not the ceiling. Tithing is a numerical starting place to begin my grace giving journey. Example of Christ He sacrificed a spiritual existence for a fleshly existence He sacrificed the presence of God for the presence of men. He sacrificed the beauty of heaven for the streets of earth. He sacrificed His blood for my sins! I will live generously Commit to Give God the First of My Time Daily Bible Reading and Prayer, Faithful church attendance, priority of family, finding a place of service Commit to Give God the First of My Talents Commit to Give God the First of My Treasure God gave me everything I have, I am just managing it for Him. I will live and give generously.