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31 Days: Ask


My church is conducting its annual stewardship drive. Every Sunday someone gives a testimony about his/her decision to give to the church and why tithing is important. Then the pastor encourages us to think about the ways we can help the church and the Church with our monetary and volunteer support.

When I worked at a university, I learned that this is called "the ask." It is the moment that after telling someone how great your organization is, you ask for a person's help to continue the greatness.

God asking us for 10% is nothing compared to what he gives us. I can't tell you the number of times I have wondered how I was going to make ends meet. Eleven years ago when X told me he wasn't sure he would ever move back in, one of my first thoughts was how will I support myself. I didn't have to worry about that for too long because God sent me a job that paid twice as much as I was making and let me keep my old job part-time for additional income.

My church asking me to give to continue its greatness is such a small thing compared to what it has given me in the way of spiritual healing and community. My tithe also goes to missions outside of the church in my neighborhood and across the country and the world. I feel blessed to be able to help near and far with my offering each Sunday.

I have been so blessed by the practice of tithing that no one even needs to ask me. I am glad to give back to God what He has given me. It has been such a positive influence on me.


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