I was recently asked to explain the difference between tithing and love offerings.
“Tithing is the practice of graciously giving 10% of all our income to the sources of spiritual inspiration in our lives.” ** When we tithe we have no conscious expectation of a return or specific effect. It is a form of spiritual practice and a way to increase our awareness of God as our source.
When a love offering is requested at a class, workshop or event, there is an exchange of goods or services. This is called compensatory giving. A love offering is an alternative to asking for a set fee. A love offering offers us an opportunity to given out of inspiration rather than giving a previously agree upon amount.
So a love offering is not considered to be a tithe, nor can a tithe be used in the exchange of goods or services. However, they are both opportunities to expand our awareness of God by giving out of love.
For a review of giving, receiving and tithing, dust off you’re The Principles of Financial Freedom workbook and read and contemplate the section on tithing.
Helpful hint: if you are experiencing a place of inertia, inactivity or fruitless results, it may be time to shake up your tithing. If you have been tithing based on net income, change to giving on gross income. Increase your tithing to include gifts, bonuses, and any unexpected income. If you find you are not tithing with a smile and prayer of gratitude, it is time to turn within and ask for guidance.
** From The Principles of Financial Freedom