I don’t feel any obligation to give, though it would be easy to justify that. One could justify giving to your church on the basis that as you freely attend and partake of the services, you should at least cover your share of the costs, like electricity, heating, pastor’s salary, property tax, food, etc.

The amount of money you make compared to most people in your church is one thing to consider.

But as the Bible says, “God loves a cheerful giver,” so only give what I feel is right to me. Forcing myself to give out of obligation wouldn’t feel right to me.

I tend to donate most towards my church based charity. It being supported by my church is part of the reason why, but they also happen to be highly rated by the US government charity rating agency, so that helps.

EDIT: The concept of tithing has a number of basis points in the Bible. First, Abraham gave a tithe to Melchizedek the High Priest. Second is the book of Malachi, which basically involves God scolding his people for letting the priests starve. The general idea behind the tithe is to pay money to ensure the pastor and the church has enough money to survive. This doesn’t mean lining the church in gold, just enough to get by on. 10% seemed like a fair figure so they went with that.

It all depends on your activity in the church. Your stewardship shouldnt be given on the assumption that you have to. If you honestly belive that you want to give your money or service to the church because you are willing to help the cause then you should do it. However, if you are only giving because you feel an obligation to, you are not truely supportong the church. The amount and what you give to your church is really up to you. There is not wrong amount it all depends on what you believe is neccesary. Sometimes, if you are having trouble deciding how much (once you have deffinatley concluded you want to give) it helps to donate a specific item. For instance, if the church is in need of candles or balls for sports programs donate those items specifically. That way you do not stress over how much and can more quickly see how your gift affects the people in your parish and can see the differance you made. It is important to remember that your money or time invested in the church really does make a differance and it will always be appreciated no matter how large or small.

We are to give God our “First fruits ” / tithe. No where did Jesus say to stop tithing. Rules ? It is out of obedience to God