Tithing - Blessing of being committed

The First Presidency message for this month is on tithing. Pres. Eyring talks about the results of tithing and how it helps us. I have one quick thought that has come to me as I've talked to non-members about tithing.

Everyone pays 10% whether rich or poor. In one discussion with one of my very smart co-workers at LEK, he asked multiple questions about tithing. As I talked about the blessings we believe we receive, it led to a discussion of commitment as well. Finally, I realized something - if you're a leader of an organization and want to help people show commitment to that group, what's a key action that people can take to show a lot of commitment? Giving money. In fact, Nate Silver, a political statistician has said that the amount of money raised isn't a great predictor of success of a candidate, but the # of people that have contributed money is helpful to know in predicting success of a candidate for president. Interesting.

I know that my family has received many blessings from paying tithing. However, if I received no blessings from paying tithing besides a greater commitment to the Lord and the Church because I was "investing" in it, then it would be well worth paying. The church and the commandments bless my life in so many ways, and paying 10% to help me be a little more faithful is well worth it.

The blessings of tithe paying are there in the scriptures, and they are great (Malachi 3 and D.C. 119 and D.C. 64), but just paying tithing and receiving no other blessings besides a greater sense of commitment would be a bargain.

Have a good day.

Best First Presidency Talks Ever

There was plenty of good today at Conference. In particular, I loved the First Presidency messages. Rather than mention what they talked about, I'll mention what happened in my brain.

Pres. Uchtdorf spoke about living below our privileges and what the Priesthood can allow us to do. Well, the entire time I was having thoughts about things to do or learning things I hadn't previously thought of. That is in part the priesthood helping me fulfill my duties and learn. I don't have thoughts come to me at any other time like I do when I'm thinking and being inspired while reading scriptures or listening to the Lord's servants. This is in part the Priesthood letting me know things I can do.

Women have access to these same thoughts as well by the way. Elder Cook talked about that some.