The fifth annual State of the Plate survey revealed interesting data about tithers. Among the over 4,000 tithers participanting in the survey:
- 73% of those who “tithe” give over 10%, including 9% who give over 20%;
- 70% “tithe” based on their gross income rather than net income; and
- 63% started tithing before turning 30.
Interestingly tithers have lower debt levels and are financially better off than non-tithers:
- 80% have no unpaid credit card bills,
- 74% have no car payments,
- 48% own their home, and
- 28% are completely debt-free.
So What?
While I have been a part of many conversations that challenge the premise of tithing for this age and respect that this is a matter of great concern for many, I invite my readers to suspend their personal position on the topic for a few minutes. Regardless of your position on tithing or personal experience with giving, what do you make of the stats about this generous group? How has your own experience as a giver helped you grow in your overall generosity as a person?