The tithe, or “first fruits,” of our labor/income belong to God. We find this principle all through God’s Word. Tithing, giving God the first 10% of our income to the local church, is the primary practical way we acknowledge that God is first (Proverbs 3:9-10 & Malachi 3:10). An offering is giving over and above the tithe. The Bible says that by giving generously, we are able to “take hold of the life that is truly life” (1 Timothy 6:18-19).