Thank you for Reaffirming Your Commitment to Discipleship
Why Proportional (Percentage) Giving is A Faithful Response
Proportional giving is a fundamental aspect of Christian living, yet it has not been widely encouraged or celebrated in recent years at WCC. In these economically challenging times, one thing that everyone can do is consider proportional giving.
Traditionally, the term “tithing” has been used synonymously with proportional giving at any level, but this is not an accurate understanding. To “tithe” in Biblical terms means to literally give 10% of ones bounties to God through the work of the church.
In today’s terms, 10% is a lot, and while many people strive to give that amount away to all their charitable causes, very few give the full amount to God’s work in the church. Admirable philanthropy abounds, but as worthy causes beyond the church have grown, the resources available to the church have reduced.
Here are a few reasons why we should consider proportional giving:
1. It is an act of spiritual discipline. As disciples of Christ we are reminded of the Biblical call to give our “First Fruits” to God. When we give first to God and then to ourselves we acknowledge with gratitude that all we have began as a gift from God. Proportional giving is the spiritual discipline of giving back to God our first fruits, not the leftovers.
2. We’ll know our priorities. At a very quick glance, we will be able to figure out the percentage we give away, versus what we keep for ourselves. Furthermore, our charitable giving demonstrates our values, based upon where our gifts go.
3. It is independent of dollar amounts. Because it’s proportional, if your income goes down your giving goes down; if your income goes up, your giving should go up. The concept is not equal gifts among us, but equal sacrifice.
Share the Journey,
Rev. Dr. John F. Ross
Senior Minister
