Parent Participation

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Primary Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:24–27; Mark 12:41–44

Supporting Scripture: Deuteronomy 14:22; 2 Corinthians 9:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2a; Matthew 6:4

Big Idea: Giving reveals the heart of the giver.

This week in student ministry, we continued our H.A.B.I.T.S. series by looking at the “T” — Tithing. We began with a fun question: “Have you ever handled an ax?” As we talked about elite timbersports athletes, students saw how what looks impossible becomes possible through discipline and practice. Just like athletes train with purpose, we are called to run our spiritual race with intentional habits (1 Corinthians 9:24–27).

We highlighted the story of Martha King, a world champion lumberjill who uses her gifts to honor God. Her life is a powerful example of taking what God has given you and offering it back to Him.

From there, we looked at what tithing really means. In Deuteronomy 14:22, we see that tithing began as giving the first 10% back to God — an act of devotion and trust. But by Jesus’ time, giving had become more about appearance than heart.

In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus watched people give at the Temple. The wealthy gave large amounts publicly, while a poor widow gave two small coins — all she had. Jesus made it clear that God values the heart behind the gift more than the size of it. Giving isn’t about impressing people; it’s about honoring God.

We encouraged students with four practical steps:

Decide in your heart what to give (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Remember money isn’t the only gift — time and talent matter too.

Give regularly (1 Corinthians 16:2a).

Give privately, keeping the focus on God (Matthew 6:4).

The bottom line: Giving is more about the size of your heart than the size of your wallet.

Partnering with Your Student’s Faith

Here are a few ways you can continue the conversation at home:

Ask: What stood out to you about the widow’s story?

Discuss: Why do you think Jesus cares more about the heart than the amount?

Model generosity: Let your student see you give — not just financially, but with your time and talents.

Start small together: Consider choosing a simple act of generosity your family can practice this week (serving someone, donating, encouraging a neighbor).

Our prayer is that students would develop a habit of giving that flows from love for God — not pressure, but joy.

Thank you for partnering with us as we help students run their race with purpose.