One of the most beautiful promises in the Bible is found in Malachi: "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it." Mal. 3:10; God's promises cannot be made ineffective, and they are not limited by finite beliefs about time, place, or circumstance. They are effective and operative now as individuals manifest obedience to God's requirements.
The writer of Malachi had been telling the people that their many troubles and difficulties were due to their divided, disloyal, and ignorant worship of God. He indicated that by the ineffectual and apathetic type of service they offered they had withheld the tithes due to God. He then directed their attention to the joyous results and blessings that would follow enlightened service to Him. Thus he impressed upon them that no smallest part of that which is due God for His love and care is to be withheld if one would receive the divine blessing.
Mrs. Eddy, who discovered and demonstrated the Science of Christ, or Christian Science, includes a definition of "tithe" in the Glossary of the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health. It reads in part, "Contribution; tenth part; homage; gratitude."Science and Health, p. 595; In order to bring "all the tithes into the storehouse" it is necessary to consecrate one's endeavors, abilities, trust, and love to God's service. It is requisite to give that grateful and loving service to God which proves our trust and confidence in Him and acknowledges our oneness with Him.
