We've had people ask us why they still have problems with debt even after trying diligently to do the right thing. It was almost like there was an invisible force that kept them from being successful. What are some of the reasons for this?
Failure to Tithe
Tithing is a Biblical mandate set forth by God to ensure the prosperity of His own people. In a nutshell, tithing is the principle where 10% of one's income is given to the local church fellowship to ensure the ministry staff, the priests as it were, are provided for. Tithing is part of the covenant between God and His people. God owns everything, and also knows how people have elevated money to a position of near idolatry. Taking 10% as soon as we are paid (not the very last, after everything else is paid) is a way of saying that God is the source of our supply. God promises to provide very well for His people if we obey him in the tithes and offerings. Those who refuse to render the tithe should not count on God to provide for them. They are, in effect, stealing from God… and telling Him that they don't trust Him to be their provider. They are standing with their fist clenched tightly trying to hold onto the money they have. As the fist is opened wide, the hand is now open to receive. A closed fist cannot receive anything. There is room for only one on the throne of your life. Who will that be?
Failure to Build Relationships
How can a wife know what pleases her husband if she never spends time with him? How can a husband know what thrills a wife if he never spends time with her? The relationship is built on the investment of time. Would you be pleased to learn that your spouse only wants to spend just enough time with you to get you to give them things? Wouldn't you feel used?
As a father, I would be very disappointed if my children only came to me when they wanted things. I so look forward to having my children want to be with me. Just to spend time is very special, and endears that child to me. I love them all, but there are some who just want to be with me. How much more does the Heavenly Father want His children to cultivate a very special relationship with Him. There are times when the Lord will wait for us to cease from our own activities and seek Him.