7 Rules for True Riches: Tithe First, Save Second

Are you willing to put God’s financial principles into action?

Lots of people claim they trust God but when it comes to money they fail to know or apply HIS financial principles and that is the reason we struggle with money. I’ve come up with 7 Rules for Financial Freedom taken from Biblical principles .

Today we’ll address Rule #1: tithe first, save second. These are not contradictory objectives but kingdom principles that will set your spending priorities straight. If you want to manage money God’s way, rule #1 cannot be skipped.

Proverbs 3:9 tells us to, “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops.”

Ask yourself, who am I honoring first in the way I handle money? Is it really God? To make giving to God’s work first requires an adjustment in your budget so you’re prepared to tithe every week. But, once you get into the habit of giving, it becomes more joyful and part of your normal routine.

But the Bible also instructs us to make saving a top priority! Twice in the Proverbs we’re told to consider the ant and become wise. Ants show up at the picnic to put away some of the crumbs! And they tell all their friends where to find the picnic so they too will save some food for the lean times!

When it comes to saving money, consistency is key. And, that can be achieved by living below your means. We’re warned in Hebrews 13:5 to “keep our lives free from the love of money and be content with what (we) have …”.

Contentment is what motivates us to drive used cars, live in smaller homes, and enjoy frugality. It’s what gives us flexibility in our budget so we can generously give on a regular basis.

Make your first savings goal $1000 in an emergency fund. Then work on setting aside 6 – 12 months of living expenses. This money should be easily accessible in a savings account in case of an emergency.

Whether you can save a little or a lot, your confidence must rest in the Lord. He will never leave you or forsake you. Money will.

With faithful hearts and disciplined hands, we can balance the command to give and to save. These kingdom principles go hand-in-hand and will bless us and others. This is Rule #1 for Financial Freedom.

If debt is preventing you from saving or giving, I want you to watch our newest video series, 5 Steps to Debt Free Living. It will help you get out and stay out of debt. Find it for free by calling the Crown Help Line at  800-722-1976 or online at crown.org/debtfree