Thanks and Giving

Ron Blue once said, “Do your giving while you’re living so you’re knowing where it’s going.” As we celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s worth remembering that the holiday isn’t just about thanks—it’s also about giving. Gratitude without generosity is incomplete.

Recently, I came across a secular financial blog that claimed, “Tithing is a mistake… for some people.” The author argued that family security, debt reduction, and retirement savings should come before giving, suggesting that tithing can create financial pressure.

While the author's reasoning may seem logical, his mindset represents a worldly perspective—one centered on self-preservation rather than stewardship. Sadly, many believers have drifted into this same pattern of thinking. Yet Paul reminds us in Romans 12:1–2 not to be conformed to the world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. As followers of Christ, we recognize that we own nothing; everything belongs to God. We are simply managers of what He’s entrusted to us. And Scripture reminds us, “To whom much is given, much will be required.”

Blue identifies four basic uses of money: live, give, owe, and grow. Most people prioritize them in that order—live first, give last. But biblical stewardship flips the list:

1. Give – Honor God with your first fruits.

2. Grow – Build wisely through steady, faithful plodding.

3. Owe – Manage and minimize debt and taxes.

4. Live – Enjoy what’s left and thank God for His blessings.

John Ortberg once said, “The tithe is a wonderful floor—but a terrible ceiling.” This Thanksgiving, may our gratitude overflow into generosity that doesn’t stop at a percentage but reflects the heart of our Provider.

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Steve Crawley, PhD

BMA Financial

Executive Director