A pastor learned that a young single mother was giving 10 percent of her small income to the church. Knowing of her struggle to pay her rent and meet the other expenses of living, the pastor thought she really could not afford to give a tithe. He decided to pay her a visit.

The pastor very kindly told the young woman that while the church appreciated her faithfulness and generosity, perhaps she should reduce her giving in order to meet her own needs. Even though he was as gentle as possible, his words brought tears to her eyes.

She said, “Pastor, my income is small and I do have to be careful what I buy. But the greatest joy I have in life is giving to the Lord’s work. Please don’t ask me to give up the one pleasure I truly have.”

When he left the dedicated Christian’s home, he vowed to himself never to deny anyone the benefits and blessings of sacrificial giving again.