FOR ALL CHRISTIANS: Always give to your church first. After your faithful church support, then give special gifts and offerings to other Christian causes that you feel are important.

IF YOU WANT TO BEGIN TO GIVE TO GOD FIRST: Whenever you get any money lay aside the first part in a special place to give to the Lord as He directs you, OR whenever you put a deposit in your checkbook, write out a check for the % you want to be giving to the Lord's work, OR if you track your income and expenses, set up a category for your church giving and another one for giving to other Christian causes (then regularly review these accounts and give to the Lord based on the % or amount(s) you decided on).

IF YOU ARE MARRIED TO A CHRISTIAN BUT ARE STILL NOT IN AGREEMENT ON GIVING TO THE LORD'S WORK: Have your spouse read this information and then talk about how to set up a mutually acceptable plan on how you can more regularly or generously give to the Lord's work.

GIVING OFF THE NET OR GROSS: Pray and ask God which you should do. If He prompts you in your heart to give off the gross, go ahead and do this and trust Him with the results. If giving 10% or more is a new experience for you, begin with giving off the net amount for a few months and see what happens. If after a few months you experience His creative care in your life, begin giving 10% or more off your gross.

IF YOU ARE A PARENT: Help your children set up a place where they can set aside "God's portion" of any money they receive (i.e. - allowances, work projects, gifts of money, etc..). Have them give their own church and ministry offerings from this money they set aside.

HERE'S A FAITH BUILDING EXERCISE TO TRY: Read 3 scripture passages on giving (including Malachi 3). Then make it a priority to give 10% of your income to the Lord's work each time you get paid or when you put a deposit in your checkbook. After 90 days, evaluate how God has worked in your life.

IF YOU ARE MARRIED AND YOUR SPOUSE IS NOT A CHRISTIAN: