Tithing

Do you usually imply to people that they are bitter?

Only when they suggest that they may be struggling with such a thing. He said that he was feeling resentful over the issue so I offered a suggestion in the form of if you are struggling with this, then here is a suggestion. Notice the keyword "if", because it has an important meaning in this context.

Question for you: do you always get offended/defensive on another person's behalf? Or am I just special?

Or that they're failing at a commandment and suggest they work on it (what does that mean?).

Only when it's applicable. I learned about this concept (of applying the first great commandment in such a way) just the other day and thought "oh, this might be a good tip to help them be happy". Sure killed the mood on that one, didn't you?

What does it mean to work on fulfilling the first great commandment? That's up to the individual to figure out for themselves. It's going to be different for everyone and I won't pretend to know enough about the person to know what they specifically need to work on. If they need a suggestion, I'd suggest they ask their wife to see if she has any good ideas.

How is he failing when he's been a full tithe payer all this time but now wonders about it and wants to know more?

Did you actually read the question that was asked, or simply latch onto the idea of questioning tithing and then put yourself into their place?

The subject of discussion was not about whether this person is a full tithe payer. What was said was that he pays his tithing because he has to and has a feeling of resentment because of it. I never claimed that he was failing, I simply offered information and suggestions that he was asking for.

Do you usually suggest to someone that is struggling that they just need to love God more and it'll make it easier?

First of all, no, this is the first time. Second, I never said it would be "easier". If we love God with all of our being, then we will willingly do these things, without complaint, because we love Him. I don't know that that will necessarily be "easy", though. In fact, trying to fulfill that commandment would probably involve quite a bit of effort. Definitely worthwhile, though.

Also, didn't you just say that he was doing fine and just wanted to know more? How is he struggling now, all of a sudden?

Giving 10% could mean someone is giving 100% of all their remaining money to the Lord.

If the Lord was asking 23.3%, like He had before, then how much worse would that be? Regardless of how much you have, 10% is still much less than 23.3%. I understand the issue of giving up 100% of what one has in order to be considered a "full tithe payer" (in the traditional sense), because I'm in that very situation right now.

Regardless, this person didn't mention struggling to pay the money, just that they didn't see a reason for it and was resentful over the fact that the church has significant savings. If you feel the need to criticize the people who are trying to help, then at least try to stay on topic. I can't address every possible pet peeve any random passerby might have when I'm directing my response at a particular person. I know, it would be great if I could, but I just don't have that skill.

/r/latterdaysaints Thread Parent