Fasting and Tithing

Fasting and tithing. Both are two huge commandments. Both are feared/dreaded by many. Both are extremely important to salvation.

We do not, as God's children here on earth, understand His reasoning for all of the commandments given to us. It is hard to see how doing certain hard things can make us better. This week in class, however, we learned more about how both of these commandments really do have a lot to do with our spiritual growth in this life.

We have the opportunity to let our spirits rule our flesh when we fast. The spirit does not need to eat or sleep. Our bodies (flesh), however, needs both of these things and more. Fasting is an opportunity where, instead of the flesh making decisions, the spirit decides what will happen. Going without food for a long time is not easy, our bodies groan and growl, demanding that they be fed. We learn self-control and have the opportunity to become closer to our Heavenly Father during this time.

When we pay tithing we are showing that we love God more than we love money. We do this as we give back some of the material wealth that God has blessed us with. He does not care about the amount of money. If we give what we have then He will be satisfied. He does not need our money to build His kingdom here on earth. If our hearts are thankful and open as we pay our tithing then we will receive more blessings than we are able to hold.

In short, we should not look at these two commandments as times to suffer. They are beautiful opportunities that God has given us so that we might be better. I am grateful for the law of the fast as well as the commandment to pay tithing. As we study and live these commandments to the fullest, we will be blessed with a greater understanding of God's plan. I am looking forward to fast Sunday and I can't wait to pay my tithing!