This article is a companion to our Bible Truth series video on Biblical Giving. We encourage you to watch the video below for a complete teaching on this vital topic.
The Heart of a Giver
In a world obsessed with getting more, God calls His people to be different. We are called to be givers, not takers. This fundamental truth shapes our entire understanding of Christian stewardship and generosity.
But why is giving so central to our faith? The answer lies in understanding God’s nature – He is the ultimate giver. Consider this: everything we have comes from God. Our very breath, our talents, our resources – all are gifts from our heavenly Father.
“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.” – John 3:16
Three Pillars of Biblical Giving
1. The Mandate for Giving
Giving isn’t optional in the Christian life – it’s a divine mandate. But here’s what many miss: giving is actually a measure of our love for God and an expression of our faith in Him. When we give, we demonstrate our trust in God’s provision and our love for His kingdom.
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:19-21
2. The Commitment to Giving
True biblical giving requires total commitment. Jesus taught us to love God with all our:
- Heart – our desires and passions
- Soul – our emotions and will
- Strength – our energy and resources
- Mind – our intellect and abilities
3. The Joy of Giving
Here’s a transformative truth: giving should bring joy. When we understand that we’re participating in God’s work of blessing others, giving becomes a delight rather than a duty.
“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.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
Understanding Tithing and Offerings
Biblical giving takes two primary forms: tithes and offerings. Let’s understand each:
Tithing: The Foundation
The tithe represents 10% of our income. It was established before the Mosaic Law (remember Abraham and Jacob?) and continues to be a principle of faithful stewardship. While some debate its relevance today, consider this: if those under the Old Covenant gave 10%, how much more should we who experience the fullness of Christ’s grace give?
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” – Malachi 3:10
Offerings: The Overflow
Offerings represent giving beyond the tithe. They’re voluntary expressions of gratitude and generosity, prompted by the Holy Spirit and given with joy.
The Challenge: Becoming a Cheerful Giver
Here’s your challenge this week: Examine your giving habits in light of these biblical principles. Ask yourself:
- Am I giving out of duty or delight?
- Does my giving reflect my trust in God’s provision?
- Am I storing up treasures in heaven through my giving?
Remember this powerful principle: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously” (2 Corinthians 9:6).
Practical Steps to Grow in Giving
- Start where you are – consistency matters more than amount
- Give proportionally as God blesses you
- Look for opportunities to bless others beyond financial giving
- Record and celebrate God’s faithfulness in your giving journey
Final Thought: As followers of Christ, we’re not called to match the world’s pursuit of wealth, but to model His generosity. When we give, we don’t lose anything – we invest in God’s eternal kingdom.
How will you respond to God’s call to be a giver today?