Giving to Receive by Ennis Smith

“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.” Proverbs 11:24 (ESV)

“Tithes. Why should I give any of my hard earned money to a church whose financial statement is probably in better shape than my own? What can they do for me, except offer up a few prayers, before turning around and asking me to donate more money for some new cause? No thank you. I’ll keep my money to myself. If God wants me to tithe, he’ll bless me with more money so that I can afford to tithe.” 

That was my logic, so I hoarded my money. In the end, I not only struggled financially, I lost my peace because I was consumed with an insatiable desire to covet more money. There was simply never enough. But God…in His patience, walked me through the temper tantrums and led me down the path of peace concerning tithing. 

It’s a sacrifice. Sometimes, the money just isn’t there to give. It is during those times that my faith is truly tested, because today, I will not forgo my tithing, despite the holiday season fast approaching. I want the favor of the Lord on my family. I need God to protect the Smiths from Satan’s constant attacks. I will obey God’s word, and I tithe. In doing so, He blesses my family in miraculous ways. There is a peace I never knew before submitting to him. My sacrifice is my gain. I may never become financially rich, but I remain rich in the Lord’s blessings of peace. 

Ennis Smith lives in Lincoln Park Michigan with his wife and Children. Contact