I’m in debt right now, should I tithe?
Walking in financial freedom is important, and we want to help you move in that direction. If you’re carrying debt, creating a plan to reduce it is a wise step. At Vineyard Cincinnati, we offer tools and coaching to help people grow in financial health. At the same time, many people choose to begin giving—even in small ways—as an act of trust and worship. Generosity isn’t about perfection; it’s about surrendering our hearts to God. As you pray and seek Him, ask what step of generosity He may be inviting you to take right now.
Why can’t I just tithe to other ministries or nonprofit organizations I care about instead of the church?
We believe the local church is one of God’s primary ways of bringing hope to the world. When people tithe to their church, they help support ministry, care for those in need, disciple the next generation, and advance the mission of Jesus in the community. Many people also choose to give above and beyond their tithe to other ministries and causes they care about. Those additional gifts are often called offerings and are a beautiful way to extend generosity across God’s Kingdom.
Gross income or my net income, which is right?
The Bible teaches the principle of giving God our “first fruits,” meaning we honor Him first with what we receive. Some people practice this by tithing from their gross income, while others begin with their net income as they grow in generosity. Rather than focusing on a strict formula, we encourage people to prayerfully ask: “God, what does putting You first look like in my finances?”. The goal is a heart posture that trusts Him with the first and the best of what we have.
10% is more than I can afford to give right now. What is a good next step for me?
Generosity is a journey. For some people, taking a step toward giving—whether that’s 1%, 3%, or 5%—is a meaningful way to begin growing in trust and faith. God sees the heart behind our giving. If you desire to grow toward a tithe over time, that’s a beautiful step of discipleship. Ask the Lord what your next faithful step looks like. If you don’t currently have income, there isn’t income to tithe from. During seasons like this, receiving support, prayer, and encouragement from the church community is part of how the body of Christ cares for one another.
I’m no longer working, but living off Social Security or disability. Am I expected to give?
Some people choose to give from those funds, while others previously tithed on that income during their working years. This is ultimately a prayerful decision between you and God as you seek to live generously with what He has entrusted to you.
My spouse and I aren’t on the same page about the tithe, but I want to. What should I do?
Unity in marriage matters deeply. If you and your spouse see generosity differently, the best path forward is open conversation, prayer, and patience with one another. If you earn income personally, you may choose to give from what you receive, but it’s important to avoid secrecy or pressure. Trust God to work in both of your hearts over time.
I’m a business owner. What do I tithe on?
Many business owners choose to tithe on the personal income they receive from their business. Some also choose to give from the business itself as an act of corporate generosity. This is another area where prayer and wisdom can guide your decision.
What do “blessings” look like when we give?
God’s blessings come in many forms. Sometimes they are financial, but often they show up in other ways—peace, provision, meaningful relationships, opportunities to serve, and a deeper awareness of God’s presence. Generosity shapes our hearts and reminds us that everything we have ultimately comes from Him[.
Do I have to tithe on every financial gift I receive (birthday, wedding, or other)?
Rather than approaching generosity with rigid rules, we encourage people to approach it with gratitude and prayer. Ask God how He might invite you to respond to what you’ve received.
What about tithing on investment gains?
Many people choose to give when they realize income from an investment, such as dividends, or when funds are withdrawn. Others prayerfully decide to give on an annual basis. Again, the guiding principle is honoring God with what He has entrusted to you.
When I’m barely making ends meet, how can I be a cheerful giver?
The Bible says, “God loves a cheerful giver”. Generosity is meant to be an act of worship, not an obligation. When we give freely and willingly, regardless of our financial situation, we express trust in God and participate in His work in the world. Giving isn’t about the amount we give—it’s about partnering with God and experiencing the joy of living open-handed.