The Heart of Biblical Giving
Biblical giving is more than just a religious obligation; it is a profound expression of our faith, gratitude, and trust in God's provision. The Bible offers a rich tapestry of teachings and principles regarding giving, emphasizing the importance of a generous and willing heart. This blog delves into the essence of biblical giving, its purpose, and how it reflects our relationship with God and others.
The Foundation of Giving: Love and Gratitude
At the core of biblical giving lies the principle of love. The greatest commandment, as Jesus taught, is to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). Our giving should flow from this love, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God.
In Deuteronomy 8:18, we are reminded, "But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth." Our gratitude for God's blessings should inspire us to give generously, knowing that we are stewards of His resources.
Tithing: A Biblical Mandate
One of the most well-known forms of biblical giving is tithing, which means giving a tenth of our income back to God. This practice is rooted in the Old Testament, where the Israelites were commanded to bring a tenth of their produce and livestock to the storehouse (Malachi 3:10). Tithing was a way to honor God and support the Levitical priesthood and the community's needs.
While some debate whether tithing is a New Testament requirement, the principle of giving proportionally and sacrificially remains relevant. Jesus affirmed the spirit of tithing when He said, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former" (Matthew 23:23).
Generosity Beyond the Tithe
Biblical giving extends beyond the tithe. The New Testament encourages believers to give generously and cheerfully. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Paul writes, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Generosity is a reflection of God's own nature. John 3:16 tells us, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Our giving should mirror this sacrificial love, seeking to bless others as we have been blessed.
Meeting Needs and Spreading the Gospel
Biblical giving is also a means to meet the needs of others and advance the kingdom of God. The early church exemplified this in Acts 2:44-45: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need." This spirit of communal generosity ensured that no one lacked necessities.
Moreover, giving supports the work of the church and missionaries, enabling the spread of the gospel. Paul commended the Philippians for their financial support, saying, "Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel...not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only" (Philippians 4:15).
The Rewards of Giving
While the primary motivation for giving should be love and obedience to God, the Bible also speaks of blessings that come from a generous heart. Proverbs 11:25 states, "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." These blessings are not always material but can include spiritual growth, deeper relationships, and a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Conclusion
Biblical giving is an integral part of our faith journey, reflecting our love for God and others. It encompasses tithing, generosity, and meeting the needs of the community and the church. By giving with a cheerful and willing heart, we honor God, support His work, and experience the joy and blessings that come from living a life of generosity.
As we consider our own giving, let us remember the words of Jesus in Acts 20:35: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." May our giving be a testament to our faith and an instrument of God's love and provision in the world.
And as a closing thought I want to tell you this, God is not trying to get something from you but He want to get something to you, remember your seed is your future.
