The Journey of a Generous Business Leader: Part III

In this series, we’re discussing five phases many leaders experience on their journey to becoming generous. The third phase is the “Compulsory” giver.

Early on in our spiritual journey, Kathy and I were “transactional” givers. We gave 2-3% of our income to the church based on what we felt we received in entertainment.

Then God revealed to me His Old Testament commands on tithing. When I realized we were robbing God, I told Kathy that the Bible required that we give at least 10% of income to the church.

At the same time, Kathy was leaving her full-time nursing position. It was a scary step of faith, but God was faithful.

Deuteronomy 14:22 says, “Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.”

Questions For Reflection

• Do you believe that God is faithful? Do your actions reflect that belief? Think of a time God was faithful in your or someone else’s life. What lessons can be taken from that experience and applied to your life now? Does it make you more trusting of God or more patient of his timing?
• What are your priorities when it comes to your finances? Do you factor your tithe into your budget? How high on your list of priorities should giving be considering 1 John 3:17 and Malachi 1:14?