“I want to tithe, but what if I can’t afford it?” That’s a question I hear a lot from clients, and it’s one of the reasons I’ve decided to dive into the spiritual and psychological effects of tithing.
What is Tithing?
Tithing is a donation, or offering, of one-tenth of your income for the service of God.
While it’s commonly practiced by Jews and Christians, you might be surprised to learn that other religions have similar practices. For example, Muslims pay a mandatory charitable contribution called zakat, which is sometimes considered a tax.
When I was a kid, I attended a Catholic school, and every time I heard the priest ask for tithing, I’d roll my eyes. I felt like they had enough and were just being greedy.
It was only decades later that I made tithing part of my lifestyle, and here’s why…
The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Tithing
You might be wondering, “What does neuroscience have to do with tithing?” Surprisingly, quite a lot! When we give, something amazing happens in our brains.
Studies have shown that the act of giving can activate the brain’s reward system, particularly areas like the ventral striatum and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex.
These areas light up with pleasure, similar to how we feel when we eat our favorite food or receive a warm hug. So yes, giving literally gives you the same feeling as getting a nice, warm hug.
Giving releases chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin, often called the “feel-good” hormones. These chemicals not only make us feel happier but also help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
It’s like a natural high—one that comes from being generous!
Tithing Can Help You Live Longer
Research indicates that being generous, whether through financial contributions like tithing or volunteering time, is linked to better overall health, reduced stress, and even longer lifespans.
One study found that “giving social support—time, effort, or goods—is associated with better overall health in older adults, and volunteering is associated with delayed mortality.”
This means that regular acts of generosity can be a powerful way to improve one’s quality of life and longevity. (According to the University of Notre Dame’s Science of Generosity Project)
Trusting God Through Tithing
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” — Malachi 3:10
In this verse, God says, “Test me in this”—it’s the only place in the Bible where God invites people to test Him. The idea here is that tithing isn’t just about money; it’s about faith.
It’s about trusting that God will provide for your needs, even when giving feels like a stretch.
When you trust, even to the extent of giving away cherished money (which we trade our time for), you are spiritually giving in. You are surrendering to God versus relying on your logical mind that tells you, “I can use that money for….”
If you’re struggling financially, you might wonder how tithing could ever be possible. Here’s the good news: God understands your situation. The Bible doesn’t say, “Tithe or else.”
It’s an invitation to trust, to give what you can, and to grow in your faith.
Here are a few actionable steps if you feel you can’t afford to tithe:
Start Small: If 10% feels impossible, start with a smaller amount that you can comfortably give. The key is to develop a habit of generosity. Start with 1%, 2%, or even just a few dollars each week. The goal is to build a practice, not to stress yourself out.
Budget for Generosity: Review your finances and see if there’s any room to allocate a small portion for giving. Even a minor adjustment in spending can create space for generosity.
Pray and Seek Guidance: Spend time in prayer asking God to guide your giving. He understands your heart and your financial situation better than anyone.
Consider Non-Monetary Ways to Give: Giving isn’t always about money. You can tithe your time, skills, or resources. Volunteering, helping others, or even offering a listening ear can be a form of giving.
Tithing is more than just a financial decision—it’s a step of faith, a boost to your brain, and a way to improve your overall well-being.
If you or someone you’re close to is a high-achieving professional who could use help establishing a solid financial plan and upgrading their money mindset, reach out to us. We’re accepting new clients and eager to help. Click here for a 20-minute consultation call.
The information provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The content is based on publicly available information and does not constitute any recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any securities or investments. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Always consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions to ensure they align with your personal financial situation and goals. Scarlette Joyce is a licensed advisor, but this article is not intended to serve as personalized investment advice.