When Tithing Feels Impossible

During financial hardship, one of the greatest struggles for many believers is the question of tithing. When money is already tight and bills are overwhelming, giving a portion back to God can feel difficult, even impossible. The natural thought is, How can I give when I barely have enough for myself?

But tithing has never been about how much you have. It has always been about trust.

Tithing is an act of faith that declares God is your source, not your finances. It is a way of putting Him first, even when your situation feels uncertain. Proverbs 3:9 and 10 says, “Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: so shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” When you honor God first, you are trusting Him to take care of the rest.

In seasons of lack, fear often says you cannot afford to give. But faith says you cannot afford not to trust God. Tithing shifts your heart from fear to dependence. It reminds you that everything you have comes from Him.

Malachi 3:10 contains one of the strongest promises about giving: “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse… and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” God invites you to trust Him and see His faithfulness.

This does not mean that giving guarantees instant financial abundance. It means that God honors obedience and provides according to His wisdom and timing. Sometimes His provision comes through unexpected opportunities, favor, protection from loss, or resources you did not anticipate.

The story of the widow in Mark 12:41 through 44 shows the heart behind giving. She gave only two small coins, but Jesus said she had given more than everyone else because she gave out of her lack, not her abundance. God does not measure the amount. He looks at the faith behind the gift.

When tithing feels impossible, it is also important to remember that God understands your situation. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” Giving should come from trust and willingness, not guilt or pressure.

In difficult seasons, even small acts of giving can strengthen your faith. Luke 16:10 says, “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” Faithfulness in little opens the door for greater responsibility and greater provision.

Tithing during financial hardship is not about losing money. It is about placing your trust in God’s provision instead of your own ability. It is a declaration that your security is not in what you hold, but in who holds you.

If you are struggling with this decision, pray and ask God for guidance. Ask Him to increase your faith and remove fear from your heart. Remember Philippians 4:19, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

When tithing feels impossible, that may be the very moment your faith has the opportunity to grow the most. Trust God with what you have, and believe that He is faithful to care for you.