Were the ancient Israelites right about Tithing?
A study done in 2009 looked to see if people who give more to charity make more money and live happier lives. Part of the purpose of the study was to show the benefits of donating to the arts and how it would help people in their own lives as well as society as a whole.
It has been established that people with higher incomes tend to give more. It has been assumed that as people make more money, they begin to give more to charities including churches. This study in the Journal of Economics and Finance looked closer and found there may be more to it.
They looked at how people give of their time which would be equal no matter the income. There was a relationship between the time given to charity and the amount of income given. Those who spend time volunteering also give more to charity. They are the same kind of people.
There are many studies that show those who give more of their time and money report being happier. They feel better about themselves and are more positive. People who give more are happier, but they also found a relationship to increasing income.
This article has sought to test the direction of this relationship, and has found strong evidence that money giving does, in fact, influence income.
Part of this may be due to the idea that positive, happy people will get better jobs and be promoted. It makes sense. I like being around people who are giving and happy. I would promote those who are always trying to help others at work.
Most religions have taught that giving will come back to you. That if you help others in need, you will receive blessings in your life. Maybe the ancient prophet Malachi new what he was talking about when he referred to tithing and opening the windows of heaven.
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