I’m currently writing a series title “What the Bible Says about Money.” The last post was about contentment and peace and learning to be content in all circumstances even thought we are often encouraged to be discontent.
This week’s post is on the subject of giving. I tend to have a lot to say about giving because it’s near and dear to my heart. Therefore, I’m going to go off plan a bit and break this post up into two parts. The second part will be posted tomorrow.
When I think about giving I consider it as an opportunity and blessing for our family to do so. Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). I can faithfully say this is a true statement based on my personal experience.
My wife and I weren’t always givers. I’ve mentioned in past posts how we felt convicted because we were not giving enough to the Lord’s work and specifically to those who directly teach and minister to us.
Through prayer and much faith we decided to stretch giving beyond what seemed possible (and comfortable) in considering our monthly expenses. But I believe the decision we made allowed us to put our complete faith and trust in God. And it’s never been better ever since.
Blessings for the giver
There are many blessings for the person who decides to make giving a priority in their life.
1. You can grow closer in your relationship with God. Crown Financial Ministries says: “above all else, giving directs our attention and heart to Christ.”
Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matthew 6:21).
2. Giving provides the opportunity for us to make a deposit in heaven.
Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account (Philippians 4:17).
3. Giving can sometimes provide an increase on earth.
He who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully (2 Corinthians 9:6).
I can definitely say that God has met our needs and sometimes in abundance. Certainly God has a plan for everyone and it may differ from person to person. But the ultimate blessing is knowing that we’ve put Him first and He will provide.
Attitude in giving
Attitude in giving can be difficult sometimes, but it’s the most important thing to consider. The key in having the right attitude is to make sure your giving is out of love. You can truly get a sense of God’s love in John 3:16.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son.
God looks to the heart of the giver. This is more important than the amount. I think the best way to insure you have the right attitude is to give your gift to Christ himself when the offering plate is passed around, or you pay online. The perspective on the faithful act of giving quickly changes when we focus on who is the recipient.
I think one of the biggest challenges today in giving is the convenience (at least for me). Truthfully, there are times when giving has become similar to paying another electronic payment online. But the times it has been the most rewarding is when my wife and I take the time to focus and pray about the gift and then reflect on why we are doing so.
How do you feel about the blessings for the giver I outlined and having the proper attitude in giving?
Each of the posts from the Bible and Money series are based on principles discussed during Money Map Coaching sessions and the Money Map Coach participants’ guide. You can learn more about Money Map Coaching at Crown Financial Ministries. You can also visit my Money Map Coaching page.
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