I just have to share some God-greatness that’s happened recently.
You may remember back in December I wrote a post about beating myself up — something I struggle with often. Well, over the holiday break, Duck took over the finances and began paying bills his way. We talked this week about whether or not we should tithe, because like a gazillion other people we have debts.
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 you will not have room enough for it. — Malachi 3:10 (NIV)
Duck has this quote printed out and taped to his monitor so he’ll see it all the time. It’s the only place in the Bible where the Lord says “test me.” Every time we have tested him, we have been blessed beyond measure! I told Duck I thought we should make sure we tithe — though keep in mind while I was doing the finances and stressing things, I did not tithe on any kind of regular basis.
So Duck said he would think about it, pray about it and look at it before Sunday. He wrote the check Saturday for the tithe. We got an insurance reimbursement check in the mail. I was paid for some work I did on a ministry website — this morning! A few other people that I have helped out just sent me money. Ya’ll, none of this was expected, and you know what? The total was more than we tithed.
I have been stressing going to BlissDom (an awesome blogging conference in Nashville at the beginning of February). I’ve been wondering if I should go — what’s the point? I’ve been praying about it a lot. Others are going to learn how they can make money off their blogs — others are going for relationships. Nothing at all against them, but I decided a long time ago not try and make money from this blog. It’s personal. It’s for God. But you know what? I’ve actually earned enough money freelancing to pay my way there. I get to room with 3 other ladies — one who I’ve known online for what seems like years. The other two? I just got hooked up with online.
The really cool thing? We’re all Christians. Relationships. I pray that while I’m there I can help a few people — not only with their bloggy questions, but maybe give them some encouragement as well. I believe that God has me going there for His purpose and His glory. I hope I do Him proud and don’t argue with Him too much 
Even with the way the economy is, I dare you to tithe. Seriously. God is bigger than the mess we’re in.
Amen, girl! This is something I’ve struggled with as well. But, you are right. You give to God, and He will provide for you. It’s not about the ‘Bless me’ Club. It’s about believing and trusting in God for provisions!
So excited for you!
Awesome post! We too struggle with whether or not to tithe… Not because we want to cheat God, but because the bills due seem so much more tangible than placing that money in the offering plate! I appreciate your sharing your struggle as well! And the blessings that have come as a result of making the right decision too!:) I am so looking forward to rooming with all of you in just a few short weeks!
Thank you for this post. We usually tithe, or my husband does, he handles all the finances in our home, but since I’ve become something of an entrepreneur myself (giggling right now at considering myself that!!) I have been keeping track of my own earnings, and I feel horrible that I did not tithe last year. I am planning to make this a monthly thing this year so I don’t get behind. Thanks for your encouragement!!