Tithing is more than a practice—it’s a heartfelt expression of faith, gratitude, and commitment to honoring God. For many, the Bible provides comfort and wisdom on the subject of giving, revealing spiritual insights that guide us on our life journey.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration or practical advice on generosity, the Bible offers profound lessons that continue to resonate today.
15 Bible Verses About Tithing
Below are 15 Bible verses about tithing, each accompanied by a brief explanation. These scriptures provide context and spiritual insight into the importance of generous giving.
1. Malachi 3:10
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”
Explanation:
This verse is one of the most cited passages on tithing. It calls on believers to trust God with their tithes, promising abundant blessings when we honor Him through our giving.
2. Leviticus 27:30
“A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.”
Explanation:
In Leviticus, tithing is presented as a sacred duty. The verse underscores that the first fruits of our labor belong to God, emphasizing the sanctity of our offerings.
3. Genesis 14:20
“And blessed be God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.”
Explanation:
Although brief, this verse is part of the story where Abram gives a tithe to Melchizedek, a priest of God Most High. It highlights gratitude for God’s deliverance and the recognition of His power in our lives.
4. Deuteronomy 14:22
“Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.”
Explanation:
This instruction to the Israelites underlines the practice of tithing as an ongoing commitment. It reminds believers to continually dedicate a portion of their resources as a sign of obedience and trust.
5. Numbers 18:26
“Speak to the Levites and say to them: ‘When you receive the tithes I give you as your inheritance, you must present a tenth of your tithe as the Lord’s offering.'”
Explanation:
Here, the practice of tithing is detailed further for the Levites, who were responsible for temple duties. This verse emphasizes the importance of proper stewardship and the further giving of a portion of what is received.
6. Proverbs 3:9
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.”
Explanation:
Proverbs encourages us to prioritize God in our financial lives by giving Him the first and best of what we have. It’s a call to align our actions with our faith by recognizing God’s rightful place in our blessings.
7. 2 Chronicles 31:5
“As soon as the order went out, the people of Israel generously brought the contributions of the people of Israel. They brought in so much that they were too much to be stored, because the people were so blessed by the Lord.”
Explanation:
This verse highlights the abundance that results from faithful giving. It shows that when people give generously, God’s blessings overflow, providing for the needs of the community.
8. Nehemiah 10:35
“We also assume responsibility for bringing to the house of the Lord each year the firstfruits of our crops and of every fruit tree.”
Explanation:
Nehemiah’s recounting of the covenant renewal includes a commitment to regular, dedicated giving. This act of faith not only sustains the temple but also unites the community in worship and support.
9. Luke 11:42
“Woe to you Pharisees, because you give a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone.”
Explanation:
Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for focusing on ritualistic tithing while neglecting essential virtues like justice and love. This verse teaches that true giving must be accompanied by righteous living.
10. Matthew 23:23
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness.”
Explanation:
Similar to Luke 11:42, this verse emphasizes that tithing should not replace core ethical values. It serves as a reminder that our spiritual practices must be holistic, integrating both ritual and compassion.
11. 2 Corinthians 9:7
“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.”
Explanation:
While not exclusively about tithing, this verse speaks to the spirit of generosity. It stresses that giving should be a voluntary act of love and joy, reflecting a sincere heart.
12. Deuteronomy 26:12
“When you have finished setting aside a tenth of all your produce in the third year, the year of the tithe, you shall give it to the Levite, the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow, so that they may eat in your towns and be satisfied.”
Explanation:
This verse connects tithing with social justice. It reminds us that our contributions are meant to help those in need, fostering community support and compassion.
13. Malachi 3:8
“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ In tithes and offerings.”
Explanation:
Malachi warns of the consequences of neglecting tithing. It challenges us to reflect on our priorities and underscores the importance of giving back to God faithfully.
14. Hebrews 7:8
“In the one case, the tenth is collected by people who die; but in the other, by him who is declared to be living.”
Explanation:
This verse contrasts the old covenant of tithing with the living faith in Christ. It serves as a reminder that our relationship with God is dynamic and life-giving, transcending ritualistic practices.
15. 1 Chronicles 29:14
“But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.”
Explanation:
In this verse, King David acknowledges that all blessings come from God. His humble gratitude and recognition that our giving is a response to divine generosity inspire believers to trust and honor God with their resources.
Conclusion
The Bible offers timeless wisdom on tithing—a practice that not only sustains our faith communities but also transforms our hearts. Each of these 15 Bible verses about tithing reminds us that giving is an expression of trust, gratitude, and love. As you reflect on these scriptures, consider how they might inspire you to be more generous and faithful in your own life.
Let this collection of verses serve as a guide and inspiration on your journey of spiritual growth. May these words encourage you to honor God with your first fruits, and may you experience the overflowing blessings promised to those who give with a joyful heart.
Call to Action:
We’d love to hear from you! Share your own experiences with tithing, your favorite Bible verses, or thoughts on how these scriptures have impacted your faith in the comments below. Let’s inspire and support each other on this journey of generosity and trust.