Not what I expected, tithing and the poor family

   This weeks sermon was on greed, from Andy Stanley's book Enemies of the Heart.  From talking to my wife and other church members I think it didn't come across right, however.  I hate to say it but church left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth this week, and I wasn't alone.  The message to give is important and a strong one but when it is virtually demanded that you tithe before you pay your power bill, I have trouble getting behind that.  Times have changed, I'm afraid, and this is something that is struggling to adapt.
  
   I write this blog, which is my version of ministry.  I love it and the responses I get from people.  I will admit that I get excited when I see that people read it and even more so when they comment.  I feel that this is how God is telling me to make an impact on the world.  However, I don't ask for money.  I have thought about monetizing but I haven't.  It just doesn't feel right to try and live on God's word.  I have a job, it pays my bills and a little more now and then but I am hardly much above the poverty line.  A full 10% would cripple my family and what I am trying to do for couples outside of this blog. 

   Contextually tithing came as a way for the Levite clan to have an inheritance, which they were not given by God.  In exchange for taking care of the Tabernacle they were to receive 1/10 of the crops and animals raised by the other Jews.  I am over simplifying that a bit, but you get the idea.  Today, there are so many ways to raise money that I have to wonder if a traditional tithe is even necessary anymore.  I firmly believe in serving the church and making sure they can pay their bills and such, but I can't do it by sacrificing my families security in the process.  The church is supposed to be generous as well.  I don't see them paying our bills, I don't see them supporting the widow when her husband dies.  I found that more than a bit irritating. 

  Do I think you shouldn't give?  No, absolutely not.  I think you should give with all your heart, but when is it time to receive?  I was told to trust in God and he will take care of me and I suppose that is true.  However, I am trusting in God when He tells me that I can't sacrifice my room and board to satisfy an ancient tradition.  I spent well over ten percent of my salary this last check on biblical things.  I bought a new book to help with our "couples" outreach to help young and old relationships find God together.  I bought Kat a new audio version of the NIV Bible.  I bought Alex a new book of Bible stories.  All of this things I have acquired to help spread the Word of God in the ways he tells me.  The fact that I still managed to find twenty bucks for the offering plate I think is commendable.  It could actually mean me not eating breakfast or lunch this week, but now I feel like I am being asked for more.  I hope this is a trend that isn't going to continue as I don't feel like this is God's work. 

Couples Mentoring

  Well lately my wife and I have been feeling the Holy Spirit guide us into a new adventure and last night we decided we want to work on mentoring couples.  You see, Kat and I have been through a lot in our short time together and no matter what the enemy threw at us we just got closer together, and more importantly, it brought us into the body of Christ. Neither of us have the knowledge to call it "ministry" nor do we have the education to be called "councilors."  What we do have, however, is a lot of life knowledge that we are ready to share with anyone and everyone that needs help.  We haven't quite decided how to share what we know but I'm sure God will show us a way.  We're both going to try and get into a couples oriented small group next year, or even lead one if needs be.  I am going to try and dedicate time on here to advice for couples and scripture to help couples come together.  If you, or anyone you know, are having relationship problems, or just want to grow as a couple in Christ email me at TheOhgrr@gmail.com and let me know.  We will be happy to answer and address questions.  If you are worried about privacy I will quote every question anonymously and use assumed names to protect anyone involved.