Jacob solemnly promised God, “If you go with me and watch over me as I travel, and if you give me food and clothes and bring me safely home again, you will be my God. This rock will be your house, and I will give back to you a tenth of everything you give me.” – Genesis 28:20-22
In these three verses, we see Jacob making a vow to God. Jacob asked God for protection and provision. Jacob promised God that he would give back to God a tenth of everything that God provided. Jacob did not say to God, “I’ll give you a tenth of only certain items.” No, Jacob gave back a tenth of everything.
Why would he do promise a tenth of everything? The reason is that Jacob understood that God owned everything and God was providing for them. Therefore, Jacob was willing to honor God by providing a tithe back to God.
We too must learn to do as Jacob did back at that time. We must honor God by offering at least a tenth back to Him. If we can do more than a tenth, then we should. We cannot and should not hoard money. If our needs are met, then we should give to those in need. It is not the government’s job to take care of the poor and needy. It is our job. We can do this by giving to our church. Who in turn gives back to the poor and needy. We must do what is right in God’s eyes and commands and not what is right in man’s eyes.
