I’m a Christian woman who is married to a non-Christian man. I’m convinced that the Bible teaches us to tithe (give a tenth of your income to your church). My husband doesn’t want me to tithe. I’m afraid God won’t prosper us because of this. What should I do?
I believe a couple should only tithe when both are in agreement about the matter. God can’t bless a couple’s tithe or anything else they do when they’re in disagreement with each other (1 Peter 3:6-7).
In this situation, God desires for you to explain to your husband why you’re convinced you should tithe. Do this by showing him the Scriptures. After you do this, you must give him the opportunity to share his heart and fears about this matter. If he still doesn’t feel good about tithing, for whatever reason, then you need to leave the matter in the Lord’s hands knowing He cares for you and your husband.
If your husband doesn’t permit you to tithe, I still believe God can prosper you as a family. This is because you have a willing heart and would tithe if you could. Notice what the Bible says:
For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
(2 Cor. 8:12)
God looks at your heart first, and not at what you are actually able to give at the time. In your case, you want to tithe, but because you’re honoring your mate and his place in this decision making process, you’re unable to tithe. God knows this and will bless you because of your heart’s desire.
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Joe Cameneti Sr. is the lead pastor of Believers Church, located in his hometown of Warren, Ohio. Pastor Joe, along with his wife Gina, pioneered Believers Church in 1983 following his graduation from Bible School.
In addition to leading a thriving local church, Pastor Joe is the host of a weekly show called "BCTV." The program is aired locally on WFMJ, the NBC affiliate, reaching thousands weekly.
Pastor Joe is a gifted communicator, skilled in the art of building bridges to unchurched America. Transparent and authentic, you'll walk away challenged and encouraged to connect with God in a deeper way.