"What are you being Promised?"

As a Christ follower, have you ever been promised a great return if you tithe your money to the Lord through a church or TV ministry? Possibly you have heard some "testimonies" about those who are getting rich because of tithing. These type of stories are endless as well as the devastated and disappointed lives from the unfulfilled promises to them! The degree that prosperity teachers manipulate and take advantage of God's people is very concerning! How long will we continue believing these lies, knowing that these promises are going unfulfilled? Recently, a Christ follower's husband was laid off from his job. Needless to say this situation was very troubling for her. Having been laid off myself, I understand this. However, what she continued to say to my wife, was even more troubling. She said, "I don't understand why my husband was laid off because we are tithers!" She was disappointed and devastated! This is what happens when we believe lies for the truth! Where did she get this information? Does the Bible teach this? God forbid! What's even more disturbing is knowing how this false teaching is affecting how she looks at God! Many within the body of Christ continue to teach these lies! One preacher said, "If I didn't tithe, I would be afraid to cross the street." Another preacher said, "I believe I can avoid all calamities of life because I tithe." Another said, "Tithing is the real secret power over the devil." Still, another said, "Tithing is your guarantee against financial lack." One well known preacher said, "God gives us a plan for our finances [in which, tithing is the key component]..I've practiced it for 64 years. And it works. I've met many people who have not practiced the plan...who have all kinds of troubles." What is he implying? Many Christ followers who have experienced misfortune have been taught that their misfortune is happening due to their lack of tithing! Does the Bible teach this? Tithing is NOT for the Christ follower! I'm encouraging every Christ follower who reads this message to do two things. First, question what your motive is in tithing or more importantly, what is their motive in why they're teaching you to tithe? And second: To seriously examine the Scripture to see if what you're being told is biblical by its context! Your move. Be encouraged!