The issue of tithe is one of the concerns that may arise between a believing wife and unbelieving husband. The Bible gives the following advice, “Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives” (1 Peter 3:1). A believing wife must be a Christian in spirit, living at peace even with an unbelieving husband. Submission to the husband in the matter of tithing is advised.
God certainly doesn’t approve of keeping secrets (Ephesians 5:11). Not being transparent doesn’t create an environment of good report and trust, rather it widens the gap that already exists between a believing wife and an unbelieving husband (1 Corinthians 7:16).
The good example of the believing spouse may lead the unbeliever to accept Christ. Saving the unbeliever should be the main object of the Christian wife and this requires patience and long-suffering. She should never cease for one moment to live a true Christian life, no matter what provocation may arise to prompt her to do otherwise (Matthew 5:16).
Now, if the unbelieving husband gives a personal allowance to the wife to spend on whatever she wishes, she can certainly tithe that part of the income and claim the blessing that is promised for those that tithe. If both spouses earn an income and bring it to the family account, then an agreement may be reached that the wife can tithe her income for she is entitled to that as she has earned that money.
Whatever the case may be, the Lord wants Christians to be Christ-like in all that they do. And the Lord will certainly bless the believing spouse and work all things for the good (Romans 8:28) that the grace of God may abound at the home.
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In His service,
BibleAsk Team
