Money

I just got done read a chapter out of Blue Like Jazz, by Donald Miller, and, yes, the chapter was on money. I wrote this responce for a class and I figured I would post it.
"I really want to get a home theater system. Not the kind with the DVD player, I already have a DVD player. I’m talking about the 1000w receiver and speakers. I found one that usually goes for $260 for $120. I got very excited. I am still stuck on the idea. There is a catch, well actually a couple. For the past 2 months I have been making and, for the most part, sticking to a budget. I save all my receipts and track my spending. I have also been working on building emergency saving account. I have about $200 right now. That’s the most I have ever had saved, ever! I really want it to stay that way, but I also have blown computer speakers, a HD TV, and DVD player, all that would sound amazing with a brand new system.
I also don’t tithe. I haven’t since summer. Over the summer I would make a point to give away up to 50% of my money. Now I give away about 7% of what I have. I also know that my church needs my money. More then that, I’m stealing from God. I’m taking the money that He has blessed me with. My heart is being moved. Again. For the second time today.
I always wish that my backpacking trips would never end. Sometimes as I fall asleep at night, I dream of making my own little house, out of scrap wood, in the back forty. The freedom of controlling my day, instead of me holding on like a bull rider. The French have a saying, “subway, work, sleep.” I don’t want to live out that saying. I want to have the freedom to sleep and play and love. I have decided that I want God to be God of all areas of my life.
Sunday, I will tithe again.