The Skyliner

Issue date: 2/22/06 Section: Opinion

Bryant

Kayla Bryant
Online Editor


I have this problem with money. The problem I have with money is that I usually don't have much of it at one time. In fact, by the time each paycheck comes around, I am rubbing pennies together to see if I can even afford a hot chocolate from the nearest Spinx.

With my lack of money comes an increase in selfishness. By the end of my week, I find myself refusing to drive anywhere because I don't want to have to put more gas in my car. I back out on plans I have already made with friends, blaming finances. I eat more meals in the dining hall to avoid spending money on food when I already have meals paid for.

I don't usually notice my resemblance to Scrooge until Sunday morning rolls around. The ushers take their places before the congregation, the pastor says a prayer and I see that familiar brass plate being passed down the pew toward my thinning wallet. I quickly survey the goods, slip out a one-dollar bill or two and quickly let it drop in before anyone can see. I feel bad for a second but then think it for the best that I saved those few extra dollars for lunch later.

The thing I seem to forget is that the money in my wallet isn't really my money to save for later. The money belongs to God ultimately; he has only lent it to me. But that is an easy factor to forget when I am trying to survive off $50 a week and still have somewhat of a social life.

It's sad, isn't it? I hold a cheeseburger meal from McDonalds in higher priority than giving God back what is rightfully his. Even when I do tithe the full 10 percent, I do it in the hope that I will be blessed in return for what I have given. It is no wonder that I struggle with finances.

Why is it the 10 percent that God asks of me seems too much to give when I tip a server 15 percent at my favorite restaurant? It isn't until I learn to truly give back to God what he deserves that I will be satisfied with what I have.

Tithing is a touchy subject at church. I used to think that the only reason the pastor was so passionate about members tithing was so the he could take home a nice paycheck. I see now though that it is much more than that.

I am sure that I am still going to struggle with giving up my money, especially when I only have those few dollars left in my wallet, but it is time to realize my money could help out something much higher than filling my stomach.

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