Biblical Answer

If you can't afford to tithe, then it's essential to understand that tithing is not about the amount of money you have, but about your willingness to trust God with your finances. The Bible teaches that we are to give to God first, before we give to ourselves (Malachi 3:10). This principle is not just about giving 10% of our income, but about recognizing that God is our provider and sustainer. When we tithe, we are acknowledging that God is the one who gives us our daily bread and that we are simply stewards of what He has given us.

In the Old Testament, there were provisions made for those who could not afford to tithe. For example, in Deuteronomy 14:22-29, it is written that if someone is too distant from the sanctuary to take their tithe, they could exchange it for money and use it to buy whatever they needed. This provision was made for the welfare of the poor and for those who were in need. However, as Christians, we are no longer under the Sinai covenant, and the command to tithe does not automatically apply as stated in the Old Testament. Nevertheless, the principle of tithing remains, and we are called to give to God first, before we give to ourselves.

If you feel that you cannot afford to tithe, then it's essential to examine your priorities and see where you can make adjustments. Remember that God is not just interested in our financial giving, but in our hearts and our willingness to trust Him. As we consistently set aside savings and give to God, He will provide for us and give us more. It's not about the amount of money we have, but about our faith and trust in God's provision. As the Bible says, "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" (Malachi 3:10). Ultimately, tithing is not just about giving to God, but about trusting Him to provide for our needs and giving us more than we could ever ask for.