The concept of tithing is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, often associated with the giving of a tenth of one's financial resources. However, the Bible also speaks about dedicating our time, a valuable and irreplaceable resource, to God's service. This concept, though not explicitly stated as "tithing time," is interwoven throughout scripture, offering valuable insights into how we should approach the use of our time as a form of devotion to our Creator.
Exploring the Biblical Foundation of Time as a Gift
The Bible presents time as a precious gift from God. Psalm 90:12 states, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." This verse highlights the importance of understanding the finite nature of our time and using it wisely. Moreover, Ephesians 5:16 reminds us, "Make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This emphasizes the responsibility we have to use our time for good and to make a positive impact on the world around us.
Time as a Resource for Serving God
The Bible is replete with examples of individuals dedicating their time to God's service. Consider the life of Jesus, who spent his time teaching, healing, and sharing God's message. He exemplified the principle of prioritizing time for spiritual pursuits. Similarly, the apostle Paul, in his letters, exhorted Christians to use their time for ministry and to engage in acts of service. He wrote in Romans 12:1, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship." This verse emphasizes the idea of offering our entire lives, including our time, as an act of worship.
The Gift of Time and the Great Commission
The Great Commission, as outlined in Matthew 28:19-20, calls Christians to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Fulfillment of this commission requires an investment of time. This investment can take various forms: engaging in evangelism, teaching Bible studies, serving in local churches, participating in missions, or mentoring others. All of these activities involve the intentional dedication of time to furthering the Kingdom of God.
Practical Ways to "Tithing" Your Time
While the Bible doesn't explicitly use the phrase "tithing time," it provides ample guidance on how to manage our time wisely. Here are some practical ways we can "tithe" our time:
1. Prioritize Spiritual Activities: Dedicate a portion of your week to activities that nurture your spiritual growth. This could involve attending church services, reading the Bible, personal prayer, or participating in small group Bible studies.
2. Serve in Your Church or Community: Offer your time and skills to serve within your church, local community, or a charitable organization. This could involve volunteering in a soup kitchen, mentoring youth, visiting the sick, or assisting with church events.
3. Engage in Acts of Kindness: Make a conscious effort to extend kindness and generosity to those around you. Help a neighbor, offer encouragement to a friend, or spend time with someone who is lonely. Small acts of kindness can make a significant impact on others and reflect God's love in tangible ways.
4. Cultivate a Sabbath Mindset: The Sabbath, observed by Jews and Christians, is a reminder to rest and reflect on God's blessings. Dedicate a portion of your week to rest and recharge, allowing space for spiritual rejuvenation.
5. Be Intentional with Your Time: Take time to assess how you're spending your days and identify areas where you could be more intentional. Eliminate time-wasting activities and prioritize activities that align with your values and goals.
The Blessings of Tithing Time
Dedicating our time to God's service not only benefits others but also brings numerous blessings into our own lives. Here are some potential benefits:
- Spiritual Growth: Spending time in spiritual activities deepens our connection with God and nourishes our faith.
- Purpose and Fulfillment: Knowing that we are using our time for something meaningful brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
- Joy and Satisfaction: Acts of service and kindness bring joy and satisfaction, enriching our lives and reminding us of the blessings we have received.
- Strengthened Relationships: Sharing our time with others strengthens relationships and fosters a sense of community.
- Greater Sensitivity to the Needs of Others: Dedicating time to serving others enhances our empathy and compassion.
Conclusion
The concept of "tithing time" is rooted in the biblical understanding of time as a precious gift from God. While the Bible doesn't explicitly instruct us to "tithe" our time in a numerical sense, it clearly emphasizes the importance of using our time wisely and dedicating it to serving God and others. By prioritizing spiritual activities, engaging in acts of service, and cultivating a mindful approach to time management, we can honor God and experience the numerous blessings that come from a life dedicated to His service.
