In the pages of Scripture, we discover a profound truth: giving is not merely an act of charity but a sacred expression of our faith and obedience to God. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is replete with stories and teachings that underscore the blessings that flow from a generous heart. Let’s embark on a journey through the Word of God to explore the timeless principles of giving and the abundant blessings that accompany it.
1. The Principle of Cheerful Giving
2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV): “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This foundational principle reminds us that our giving should flow from a heart overflowing with joy and gratitude. When we give willingly and cheerfully, we reflect God’s own generous nature and experience His pleasure and favor in return.
2. The Promise of Provision
Malachi 3:10 (ESV): “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
God’s promise of provision is intertwined with the act of giving. As we faithfully tithe and give of our resources, we invite God’s abundance into our lives. He promises to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings beyond measure, meeting our needs and overflowing with abundance.
3. The Example of Sacrificial Giving
Mark 12:41-44 (ESV): “And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him and said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.’”
The widow’s mite exemplifies the principle of sacrificial giving. Despite her poverty, she gave all that she had, trusting God to provide for her needs. Her act of faith and selflessness drew the attention and commendation of Jesus, highlighting the value of giving sacrificially.
4. The Fruit of Generosity
Proverbs 11:25 (ESV): “Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”
Generosity begets generosity. As we sow seeds of blessing through our giving, we also reap a harvest of blessing in our own lives. God’s economy operates on the principle of sowing and reaping, and those who give generously find themselves enriched in every way.
Giving to God is a central aspect of worship and devotion in the Bible. Here are some examples of giving to God as seen in Scripture:
1. Offerings and Sacrifices in the Old Testament: Throughout the Old Testament, people offered various types of sacrifices and offerings to God as acts of worship and obedience. These included burnt offerings, grain offerings, fellowship offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings (Leviticus 1-7). These offerings were symbolic expressions of gratitude, atonement, and dedication to God.
2. Tithes and Offerings in the Law of Moses: In the Mosaic Law, God commanded the Israelites to give a tithe, or a tenth, of their produce and livestock to support the Levites, who served in the tabernacle and later the temple, as well as to provide for the needs of the poor and foreigners (Leviticus 27:30-34; Deuteronomy 14:22-29).
3. Freewill Offerings and Contributions: In addition to the required tithes and offerings, the Israelites were encouraged to give freewill offerings and contributions from their hearts as expressions of generosity and devotion to God (Exodus 35:4-29; 2 Chronicles 31:10; Nehemiah 10:32-39).
4. Giving in the New Testament Church: In the early Christian church, believers continued the practice of giving generously to support the ministry, meet the needs of others, and advance the kingdom of God. They sold their possessions and shared everything they had, demonstrating radical generosity and unity (Acts 2:44-45; Acts 4:32-37).
5. Offering Our Lives as Living Sacrifices: Romans 12:1-2 encourages believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship. This involves presenting our whole selves—our time, talents, resources, and desires—to God, surrendering to His will and purposes.
Giving to God encompasses not only material offerings and financial contributions but also the offering of our entire lives as an act of worship and devotion. Whether through tithes and offerings, acts of service, or sacrificial living, giving to God reflects our love, obedience, and gratitude towards Him.
Conclusion
In a world that often prioritizes accumulation and self-preservation, the biblical call to generosity stands as a counter-cultural testament to our faith in God’s provision and care. As we embrace the blessings of giving, we not only bless others but also experience a deepening of our relationship with God and a flourishing of our own lives. Let us heed the timeless wisdom of Scripture and embark on a journey of faith-filled giving, trusting in the abundant blessings that await those who give with open hearts and hands.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
corneliusbella 