Question about Paula White

[MissYocairis]

I had TBN on last Friday when I was off of work and Paula White's show came on. I wasn't really paying attention, just background noise as I straightened up the house. She was discussing whatever her subject was for the day but then she said something that really caught my attention....she said, and I quote, "giving of your money is the highest form of service to the Lord."

Can someone help me understand what she meant by that? Thanks.

 

[MissYocairis]

I had no idea this forum was so dead!

 

[poetist]

I LOVE Paula White, but sometimes I think she focuses excessively on money. But, I know she talks about first fruits alot - in that God asks that we give Him the first and best offerings of everything that we have. So instead of giving Him what we have left over (after we pay our bills, get our hair done, shop, etc) we are to give Him our best monetary offering in reverence of everything that He's done for us. I guess because many people have a problem parting with their money, she considers it the highest form of service and surrender. I think it is a very important part of service and can be done through tithes, but can also be done by giving money to charity, struggling family and friends, and homeless (without expecting anything in return.) I also believe that we serve and honor God by giving of our time, volunteering, helping others, being honest, forgiving, loving, etc.

So I guess I don't totally agree with her on that

 

[MissYocairis]

I LOVE Paula White, but sometimes I think she focuses excessively on money. But, I know she talks about first fruits alot - in that God asks that we give Him the first and best offerings of everything that we have. So instead of giving Him what we have left over (after we pay our bills, get our hair done, shop, etc) we are to give Him our best monetary offering in reverence of everything that He's done for us. I guess because many people have a problem parting with their money, she considers it the highest form of service and surrender. I think it is a very important part of service and can be done through tithes, but can also be done by giving money to charity, struggling family and friends, and homeless (without expecting anything in return.) I also believe that we serve and honor God by giving of our time, volunteering, helping others, being honest, forgiving, loving, etc.

So I guess I don't totally agree with her on that

Wow, Poetist. I have to be honest with you...I totally disagreed with Paula and I was offended and upset. But, reading your explanation and keeping an open mind, since I am not too familiar with Paula's ministry, I am not so offended. That was a great explanation of where she was coming from with that. Thank you.

 

[mkh_77]

In my opinion, she's just another prosperity minister, and I don't care for that type of ministry.

 

[MissYocairis]

In my opinion, she's just another prosperity minister, and I don't care for that type of ministry.

what do you think about the quote mkh?

 

[mkh_77]

what do you think about the quote mkh?

I think it's a misrepresentation of how God calls people to service. I also think it's self-serving of her to say that knowing that she receives a substantial portion of whatever money is coming in.

I wrote more about my feelings on this in an Off Topic thread about the minister with the $20K watch. My comments at that time were directed toward Creflo Dollar's ministry, but I see some parallels in Paula White's, or any prosperity minister, as far as money is concerned.

ETA: What if you don't have any money to give, but you freely give of your time and talents? Is your service to the Lord going to be viewed as second-rate because of your financial situation? According to what I know and have experienced with prosperity ministries, the answer would be "Yes", your service will be second-rate and God will be angry that you didn't give what you didn't have and you will be cursed as a result of not giving.

 

[MissYocairis]

I think it's a misrepresentation of how God calls people to service. I also think it's self-serving of her to say that knowing that she receives a substantial portion of whatever money is coming in.

I wrote more about my feelings on this in an Off Topic thread about the minister with the $20K watch. My comments at that time were directed toward Creflo Dollar's ministry, but I see some parallels in Paula White's, or any prosperity minister, as far as money is concerned.

ETA: What if you don't have any money to give, but you freely give of your time and talents? Is your service to the Lord going to be viewed as second-rate because of your financial situation? According to what I know and have experienced with prosperity ministries, the answer would be "Yes", your service will be second-rate and God will be angry that you didn't give what you didn't have and you will be cursed as a result of not giving.

Whoo, Lawd, girl you are reading my mind! This is what was racing through my mind when she said it. I stopped dead in my tracks and almost caught whiplash turning back to see if she was really saying it! It bothered me and I have been concerned ever since. It should have been CLARIFIED if she did not mean it the way you explained but she did not clarify it. It angers me because my Grandmother follows Evangelist Cerullo and I think he teaches the same way and she sends them large sums of money like they are the gas and electric company!

 

[mkh_77]

It is sad, and I see people get swept up in these types of ministries all the time.

I recently went to a church on invitation from my fiance's co-worker. (I have a church home, but am trying to encourage my fiance to go, and thought this was a good compromise.) When we got there, my fiance and I were the only people dressed in "church" clothes. Everyone else was wearing jeans. I found it odd that the minister was wearing a suit, though, and that really bothered me. Could he have exploited the financial gap any more blatantly?

Then the minister went into this sermon about first fruits and how if we didn't give of our first fruits right then and there that we should be ashamed of ourselves and we should know that God wouldn't be pleased with us. He then went on to list all of his worldy possessions and how much they cost, and claimed he was able to have them because he always gave his first fruits. I think it was because everyone else was giving their first fruits, and he was getting paid off of that.

 

[Belle Du Jour]

Even though I like Paula White and her style of preaching, I agree that she doesn focus on harvest and money a bit too much. Like someone said "prosperity" ministry. Even though I believe in tithing and giving, I get turned off by the spiel.

 

[cocoberry10]

I'm not a Paula White fan, and never have been. And honestly, I can tell you exactly why. I can't quite put my finger on it, but I've just never been attracted to her preaching style. Some of her messages have been good, but there's just always been something about her that's rubbed me the wrong way.

Anyway, she like many modern preachers are only "preaching" what they think is right. The only way to give first fruits to God is to tithe by giving 10% of your earning to a church. I do not agree with this ideology for many reasons (and yes, I do tithe!). However, I believe tithing is truly about sacrifice. Therefore, you can tithe inside or outside of church, IMO, because it's about giving your first fruits to God (and to me that includes God's kingdom, like His people, which are both inside and outside the church). If you knew someone was in need that didn't go to church, I believe you would serve God equally giving the money (or time if funds are an issue for you) to that person, instead of just having a fat check to put in a collection plate. Matthew 5:23-24 of the bible even states, "if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift."

Therefore, like all things, if you aren't sure about something regarding tithing, I say the only one you need to communicate with on that subject matter is the Highest One, not the human one! Just my two cents!

 

[sb44]

I had TBN on last Friday when I was off of work and Paula White's show came on. I wasn't really paying attention, just background noise as I straightened up the house. She was discussing whatever her subject was for the day but then she said something that really caught my attention....she said, and I quote, "giving of your money is the highest form of service to the Lord."

Can someone help me understand what she meant by that? Thanks.

Interesting that you mention this. I'm not big on TBN... but one day I got a phone call with some very bad news about my mother's health. I was so alone and needed someone to pray with me in that moment. Paula was on the television. I called the number they have for prayer. I WAS SO SURPRISED when someone prayed for me and didn't ask for a donation. They didn't try to sell me anything. They didn't even ask for my phone number or address so they could contact me for a donation later. I don't call for prayer often, but when I have EVERYONE else, except for Paula asked for a donation or contact info. That set her apart in my book! ... and the good news about my mother was that the original diagnosis was wrong!

 

[pearlygurl]

I believe first fruits is all about giving God your best (whatever it may be). I watch Paula White regularly and I've never heard her suggest for anyone to give a certian amount of money or if someone didn't give a large amount of money, God wouldn't be satisfied with them. In fact, she tells you to let God lead you in what you want to give. First fruits is not only money. It's about giving God the first/best of everthing (time, service, etc.).

When preachers begin to talk about money or giving money...a lot of people get touchy about the subject. In my opnion, this is a tactic the devil uses to distract us from the real reason why we should give unto the Lord. If we focus on what a preacher is wearing or driving it's easier not to give God what's his because we think we're giving to the man/woman of God. Remember, your not tithing/giving to the preacher, you're tithing/giving to God. Why worry about what a preacher is doing with the money. If they happen to be misusing the money, don't you think God will take care of that situation?

 

[Chyna Red]

It's not how much you give but the spirit in which you give.

 

[mkh_77]

Why worry about what a preacher is doing with the money.

Because a lot of the people giving the money should be paying their bills or feeding their children and they aren't. They are giving it to the "church" instead.

Additionally, if it is money that I worked hard to earn, or even money that's just mine for whatever reason, I want to be clear about where it is going and what it will be used for. Otherwise, I would walk around handing out money everday to anyone. Just because I am giving money to a church doesn't mean that I shouldn't be concerned about where it goes or what it's used for.

Prosperity ministries are not for everyone, especially me.

 

[mkh_77]

It's not how much you give but the spirit in which you give.

I agree. But someone should tell that to the minister I mentioned previously. He stood in the church and told everyone to give a full month's salary. Then he said to give two weeks worth if you couldn't do a month because if you didn't give at least that much, well, your offerings were going to be labeled second-rate.

 

[Southernbella.]

I can't quite put my finger on it, but I've just never been attracted to her preaching style. Some of her messages have been good, but there's just always been something about her that's rubbed me the wrong way.

Isn't she the one who uses the "blaccent" when preaching to black folks? If so, I totally feel you on that.

As far as the quote goes, I think she's wrong.

 

[MissYocairis]

I often have wondered if it made a difference in God's eyes whether I put a check in the collection plate on Sunday or if I took what I had and gave it to an immediate cause right in front of my face. For instance, let's just say, I was on my way to church....cash in the wallet ready to drop....and I encounter a homeless family on the street where the mother is asking me for help. What if it comes down to choosing between charities? The church or the immediate need in front of you of your fellow man? Do you divide it up? Do you double your gift and give full amount to the church and then equal to the immediate cause in front of you? What about my Grandmother who does nothing but break off her retirement and Social Security income in large sums monthly for the church and then cannot afford to attend the annual conventions in Cali? Is it safe to trust the guidance of a pastor whose very living conditions depend on your "tithing" when it comes to how much you should give to be "in service to the Lord"?

 

[mkh_77]

I often have wondered if it made a difference in God's eyes whether I put a check in the collection plate on Sunday or if I took what I had and gave it to an immediate cause right in front of my face. For instance, let's just say, I was on my way to church....cash in the wallet ready to drop....and I encounter a homeless family on the street where the mother is asking me for help. What if it comes down to choosing between charities? The church or the immediate need in front of you of your fellow man? Do you divide it up? Do you double your gift and give full amount to the church and then equal to the immediate cause in front of you? What about my Grandmother who does nothing but break off her retirement and Social Security income in large sums monthly for the church and then cannot afford to attend the annual conventions in Cali? Is it safe to trust the guidance of a pastor whose very living conditions depend on your "tithing" when it comes to how much you should give to be "in service to the Lord"?

For some people, their time is money. In my opinion, giving your time is just as good and sometimes even better than giving money. I understand the church needs money to support itself, but there is something to be said about being face to face and helping someone in need.

If I were on my way to church and encountered a family who needed immediate help, I would have to take a detour that day and use whatever money I was going to put in church to make them more comfortable, even if it were temporary. I've given my money, my time and my talents to church, and I don't think God favors one expression of love over another.

As for the other scenarios, I think you can gather from my previous posts how I feel.

 

[pearlygurl]

Because a lot of the people giving the money should be paying their bills or feeding their children and they aren't. They are giving it to the "church" instead.

Well that's not responsible. Christians should be good stewards over their money (paying bills on time, etc.). I believe you have to have the right attitude/motives in your giving. I do believe that we should tithe 10% no matter what, even when times are hard. I believe God honors his word conerning tithing. There have been times when it seemed impossible to do this but God ALWAYS has provided

Additionally, if it is money that I worked hard to earn, or even money that's just mine for whatever reason, I want to be clear about where it is going and what it will be used for. Otherwise, I would walk around handing out money everday to anyone. Just because I am giving money to a church doesn't mean that I shouldn't be concerned about where it goes or what it's used for.

We have two different opinions about money. The money that I have is not really mine, I don't own anything...it all belongs to God. It's just up to me to manage what he has blessed me with. I'm not saying being irresponsible when you give but I think too many times the focused gets put on the wrong thing (pastor's clothes/watch) rather than giving itself. I'm not saying send your money to a ministry that is crooked or has been proven to be wrong.

 

[mkh_77]

I do believe that we should tithe 10% no matter what, even when times are hard. I believe God honors his word conerning tithing. There have been times when it seemed impossible to do this but God ALWAYS has provided

Do you realize that not everyone can do this? There are some people in this world who are entrenched in poverty and $1.00 is a lot of money for them. I am not being sarcastic, I am being very serious.

Besides, are you implying that if you don't give, especially when it's hard, that God won't provide?

We have two different opinions about money. The money that I have is not really mine, I don't own anything...it all belongs to God. It's just up to me to manage what he has blessed me with.

Please don't make assumptions about how I view my money or the possessions I have.

I'm not saying being irresponsible when you give but I think too many times the focused gets put on the wrong thing (pastor's clothes/watch) rather than giving itself. I'm not saying send your money to a ministry that is crooked or has been proven to be wrong.

Why give and not be mindful of where your money is going? That's contradictory with your post about being responsible with what God has blessed you with.

Often times ministries are proven crooked AFTER people have given their money.

 

[pearlygurl]

I often have wondered if it made a difference in God's eyes whether I put a check in the collection plate on Sunday or if I took what I had and gave it to an immediate cause right in front of my face. For instance, let's just say, I was on my way to church....cash in the wallet ready to drop....and I encounter a homeless family on the street where the mother is asking me for help. What if it comes down to choosing between charities? The church or the immediate need in front of you of your fellow man? Do you divide it up? Do you double your gift and give full amount to the church and then equal to the immediate cause in front of you? What about my Grandmother who does nothing but break off her retirement and Social Security income in large sums monthly for the church and then cannot afford to attend the annual conventions in Cali? Is it safe to trust the guidance of a pastor whose very living conditions depend on your "tithing" when it comes to how much you should give to be "in service to the Lord"?

Are we talking about giving or tithing? If we are talking about tithing, I believe 10% goes to God off the top, no questions. Why? Because that's all he requires of us. Once you give God what's his, then what you give (time, charities) is up to you. There is a scripture in the bible talking about if you see a brother in need, you should help him whether he/she needs food or someone to talk to. As for trust, you should only put your trust in God. God will lead you in how to give, if you ask for his guidance. Ask for wisdom on what to do and how to do it and he will show you. There is no set amount of how much you should give to the Lord, it's between you and him.

 

[mkh_77]

Are we talking about giving or tithing? If we are talking about tithing, I believe 10% goes to God off the top, no questions. Why? Because that's all he requires of us. Once you give God what's his, then what you give (time, charities) is up to you.

Where is it mentioned in the Bible that you are supposed to give 10%?

 

[mkh_77]

No, I'm saying the opposite. God WILL provide for you so that you CAN give.
Ps 37:25 - Show Context
I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

Then why are there so many destitute people in the world who don't have anything to give?

I was talking about how we sometimes get too caught up in what the pastor is driving etc and we loose focus on what true giving is about.

To ignore what the pastor is doing/wearing when it is your money that pays his/her salary is foolish, in my opinion, especially if the pastor is a full time employee of the church. That's essentially turning a blind eye to what's going on. In my opinion, true giving is about helping those who need it, not helping the pastor to go on vacation or purchase a swanky home, car or clothes.

 

[pearlygurl]

To ignore what the pastor is doing/wearing when it is your money that pays his/her salary is foolish, in my opinion, especially if the pastor is a full time employee of the church. That's essentially turning a blind eye to what's going on. In my opinion, true giving is about helping those who need it, not helping the pastor to go on vacation or purchase a swanky home, car or clothes.

If a person doesn't feel comfortable giving to a minsitry, they shouldn't. Find a place where you feel comfortable to give. No you should not be giving to a ministry that is crooked or that you feel that is doing wrong. But if a pastor is honest, I don't think it's fair to automatically look at him wrong if he happens to be driving a nice car etc. A lot of the times, I think pastors are just reaping what they have sown into their ministries. For instance, my current pastor had his house and car repossed you name it, it happened to him. He literally gave up a lot to start my church. But now God has blessed him with a beautiful home, his own business etc.

 

[pearlygurl]

Where is it mentioned in the Bible that you are supposed to give 10%?

A tithe means 1/10 or 10%

 

[pearlygurl]

Please don't make assumptions about how I view my money or the possessions I have.

Wasn't trying to make any assumptions, sorry if I offended you

 

[pearlygurl]

Then why are there so many destitute people in the world who don't have anything to give?

I believe you can give out of your need. God knows what's a lot of money for you and he will honor your giving even if it's a penny, when it's done with the right motives. Oh, and just so there isn't any confusion, by right motives I mean not giving to impress people or put on a show etc.

Wow this is the most I have ever posted on a topic. This was fun. I guess we can agree to respect each others opinions. I need to get off this computer so I can study

 

[mkh_77]

A tithe means 1/10 or 10%

Rephrasing: Where in the New Testament does it say that Christians are supposed to give 10% to God?

 

[GodsPromises]

I truly believe in titing. It has not always been easy for me to do but I believe in the practice and the spirit of tithing. When I tite is seems like everything just comes easier. Not saying that God doesn't bless those who doen't tithe but for me when I tithe especially when I tithe in faith meaning when I really don't have it and I stand on the Word of God that says that "he will pour out a blessing so big that I wouldn't be able to handle it". I believe that word and tithe standing on that Word.