In Genesis chapter fourteen, verse twenty, Abram gave a tenth of His spoils he had retrieved in gratitude for the help and grace of God. Tithing is the first time mentioned here in the Word of God. Melchizedek, the king of Salem, blesses Abram and refers to how God delivered the enemies into his hand.
Abram returns from defeating the four kings of the east to rescue Lot and all of Lot’s possessions. He also recovers the stolen items taken by the enemy, including all the goods previously stolen from Sodom.
The blessing issued by Abram in giving a tenth indicates that he acknowledges the Lord for the victory and shows gratitude.
In Hebrews, chapter seven, verse four mentions how great a man he was that even God blessed him by changing his name from Abram to Abraham. He gave a tenth of all his goods. Abraham is an example that he humbly gave to God for all the things He has done for him. This giving includes guidance, protection, and being victorious over his enemies.
Abraham did not wait until God blessed him with goods to give his portion back to Him. He gave to God for everything He has done. Today, people commonly give to God when they get a share of funds from work or another source before giving their tithes to the Lord in the house of God. Abraham is considered a great man in the Bible but gave more than a tenth. He gave tithes and offerings since he gave a tenth of all.
In society, some believers give to God’s house seeking to receive a return from God, like if He has some revenue agency set up where He gives out financial returns after a certain period. First, we as believers must give in honor to God and be obedient according to His Word. Second, we contribute to God’s house to support the work of God even though leaders of the church may operate the sanctuary. Remember, we are giving to God and not to the leaders. However, if they are mishandling the tithes and offerings, they will have to answer to God. God will bless those who obey His Word because we honor God’s Word and His sanctuary. Our giving to God will not prohibit us from receiving a blessing from Him: even if some leaders disobey the Word and do not use the funds to build God’s kingdom.