Giving is a central theme throughout the Bible. It reflects God’s generous nature, demonstrates our faith, and blesses others in profound ways. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture calls believers to give generously, willingly, and joyfully. This article explores the biblical principles of giving, why it matters, how to give, and the blessings that come from faithful stewardship. Each point is anchored in Scripture to provide a clear, biblical foundation for this vital practice.
God as the Ultimate Giver
At the core of giving is the recognition that God Himself is the ultimate giver. Everything we have, including life itself, is a gift from God.
Creation and Provision: God created the universe and generously provided for humanity. James 1:17 declares: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.” From the air we breathe to the food we eat, all provision comes from His hand.
The Gift of Salvation: The greatest expression of God’s giving nature is seen in His gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. John 3:16 reminds us: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This ultimate act of generosity sets the standard for Christian giving.
Stewardship of Resources: Understanding that everything belongs to God and we are His stewards (Psalm 24:1) shifts our perspective. Giving is not merely an obligation but a response to God’s overwhelming generosity.
Biblical Commands and Encouragement to Give
The Bible consistently encourages and commands believers to give. Here are some key principles from Scripture:
Giving is an Act of Worship: In the Old Testament, tithes and offerings were brought to the temple as acts of worship. Proverbs 3:9 instructs: “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.” Today, giving remains a powerful way to honor God.
Generosity is Commanded: The Bible calls believers to be generous. Deuteronomy 15:10 says: “You shall give to him freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake.”
Give Cheerfully, Not Reluctantly: Paul reinforces the importance of a cheerful heart in giving. 2 Corinthians 9:7 declares: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Forms of Giving in the Bible
Biblical giving takes many forms, from financial gifts to acts of service. Here are key types of giving seen in Scripture:
Tithes: The concept of tithing—giving 10% of one’s income—originates in the Old Testament. Abraham gave a tithe to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:20), and the Israelites were commanded to tithe to support the Levites and temple worship (Leviticus 27:30-32). While the New Testament doesn’t command tithing, it affirms the principle of generous and proportional giving (1 Corinthians 16:2).
Offerings: Offerings go beyond the tithe and represent voluntary gifts given out of gratitude. For example, the widow in Mark 12:41-44 gave two small coins, which Jesus praised as an extraordinary offering because she gave sacrificially.
Almsgiving: Helping the poor and needy is a recurring theme. Proverbs 19:17 states: “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” Jesus emphasized caring for the “least of these” as an expression of love for Him (Matthew 25:40).
Service and Time: Beyond material giving, Scripture calls believers to give their time and talents. Romans 12:6-8 encourages using spiritual gifts to serve others. Acts 20:35 reminds us: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
The Heart of the Giver
Biblical giving emphasizes the attitude of the giver as much as the gift itself.
Willingness: Giving should come from a willing heart. Exodus 35:5 says: “Take from among you a contribution to the Lord. Whoever is of a generous heart, let him bring the Lord’s contribution.”
Sacrifice: God honors sacrificial giving. David’s words in 2 Samuel 24:24 resonate: “I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing.”
Humility: Giving is not an opportunity to seek recognition. Jesus warned against giving to be seen by others, urging believers to give in secret (Matthew 6:1-4).
Joy: Joyful giving reflects trust in God’s provision. As 2 Corinthians 9:8 promises: “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”
The Impact of Giving
Giving impacts the giver, the recipient, and God’s Kingdom. Here are some of its profound effects:
Blessing to the Giver: Giving brings blessings to the giver, both spiritually and materially. Luke 6:38 states: “Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap.” While blessings may not always be financial, they often include joy, peace, and a deeper trust in God.
Provision for the Needy: Giving meets the needs of others and demonstrates God’s love. Acts 4:34-35 highlights the early church’s generosity, ensuring that no one lacked.
Glory to God: Ultimately, giving glorifies God. 2 Corinthians 9:12-13 explains that generosity results in thanksgiving to God and affirms the believer’s obedience.
Challenges to Giving
Despite its importance, giving often comes with challenges. Here are some barriers and biblical solutions:
Fear of Lack: Many hesitate to give out of fear of not having enough. Matthew 6:25-34 addresses this, reminding believers to trust God’s provision. Verse 33 exhorts: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Greed or Materialism: The love of money can hinder generosity. 1 Timothy 6:10 warns: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.” The antidote is cultivating contentment and eternal perspective (Matthew 6:19-21).
Doubt About Impact: Some may wonder if their giving truly makes a difference. Galatians 6:9 encourages persistence: “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
Practical Steps for Biblical Giving
Implementing biblical giving requires intentionality. Here are practical steps:
Set Aside a Portion: Follow Paul’s advice in 1 Corinthians 16:2: “On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper.” This reflects systematic and proportional giving.
Budget for Generosity: Include giving in your financial planning, prioritizing it as a non-negotiable expense.
Support the Local Church: The church is a primary avenue for giving, funding its ministries and outreach. Malachi 3:10 challenges believers: “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.”
Give Thoughtfully: Research causes, ensuring they align with biblical values. Philippians 4:10-19 illustrates Paul’s gratitude for the Philippians’ thoughtful support.
Eternal Perspective on Giving
Biblical giving shifts focus from earthly gain to eternal impact. Jesus taught in Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
Believers are encouraged to see giving as an investment in God’s Kingdom. The rewards—souls saved, lives transformed, and God glorified—are eternal.
Conclusion
Giving is an essential expression of the Christian faith. It reflects God’s generosity, meets the needs of others, and advances His Kingdom. Through principles rooted in Scripture, believers are called to give sacrificially, willingly, and joyfully, trusting in God’s provision and promises. As Proverbs 11:25 declares: “Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”
May we embrace a lifestyle of biblical giving, honoring God and experiencing the blessings of faithful stewardship.