Why Does the Church Want All of My Money?

By Kenn Edwards
Guest Writer

Why does the church want all of my money?

They don't, but God might.

We have heard it said over and over again, "all that church wants is my money." Or, "That preacher is just money hungry. He only works one hour a week, and then he's asking for my money."

Whether this is true or not, unfortunately many times it has turned people off and some have even left the church. So what is the plain truth about God, money and the church?

You work hard for your money, and you feel like you deserve everything you get. Did you ever stop to think who gave you the power to make money? God did. What about your health? Most of us have been blessed with health so we can go to work every day and bring home a paycheck. Is God responsible for that too? Who gave you the intelligence to do your job? God?

The Bible says it is God who gives us the strength, knowledge, and ability to earn a living. "But you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who is giving you power to make wealth, that He may confirm His covenant..." (Deuteronomy 8:18, NASB).

God has blessed us with everything we have for a reason. We need to recognize that He is our provider.

Why does the church need my money?

The church or a ministry needs money to operate. Just like you need an income to pay your electric, water and gas bills, the church needs money to pay its bills too. When you give you are helping your local church care for people in your community, plus you are helping send the Gospel around the world. That's why your church or favorite ministry needs your financial support.

When Christians support God's work they are following the command of God to give. Giving is an act of faith and obedience to God. At times I've wondered should I be giving to that particular church, because I had questions about how they were spending the money. Ultimately God will be the judge of the leadership of that church or ministry. For me, it is a privilege to give.

How much should I give?

Throughout the Old Testament we commonly see a reference to the tithe. Some people say in the New Testament, under the age of grace, that we should give even more than the 10% tithe of the Old Testament.

The real question is, how much do you want to be blessed? Some people give much more because they know God will bless them for their obedience. It's not a give to receive type of arrangement. It is more like, give and trust God to abundantly pour out His blessings on your family. God will bless you in ways that are far more important than money, but we must walk in obedience to enjoy those blessings. Faithfulness is the key in giving.

Isn't it my money?

Some would say, "It's mine. I can spend my money anyway I want." Actually, if God is the provider, then we become the manager of everything He has put into our hands. As His servants, our job is to use those resources wisely. Doing so will bless our families and provide for God's Kingdom work too.

Rich Young Ruler

Christ wanted to see how committed the Rich Young Ruler was to His message. So He said, ..."One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me" (Mark 10:21, NASB).

Christ may not ask you to sell everything, but He does want your total commitment. When we walk in disobedience, we miss God's best for our lives.

Yes, money can be a sensitive topic in the church today. Could it be that we feel uncomfortable because we are not walking in obedience with our giving?

Discover the joy of giving. Take a step of faith and watch God work in your life. It won't happen overnight, but you will learn to trust Him as you give. Then you will see those blessings flow through your life.

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Kenn Edwards

Kenn is a speaker, author and financial coach. His background is a combination of financial planning, estate planning and ministry. Currently he serves with Faith Comes By Hearing in their estate and gift design ministry. Email Kenn Edwards.