“Command those who are rich in this
present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the
living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that
they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for
themselves, a good foundation for the time to come that they may lay hold on
eternal life”—1 Timothy 6:17-19
The more skilled
you are at a task, the more you’ll enjoy it. For instance, when an orchestra
adeptly plays a masterpiece, an accomplished musician will derive greater
pleasure from listening than would a person with an untrained ear. You might be
surprised to learn that the same is true of giving.
God has many reasons for asking us to give. First, by returning a portion of our wealth to the Lord, we are acknowledging that everything actually belongs to Him, “For every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills…For the world is Mine and all its fullness” (Psalm 50:10, 12b). Second, giving is a way to obey, “Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering, from everyone who gives it willingly with his heart you shall take My offering” (Exodus 25:2). Third, when we contribute to a ministry or reach out to help the needy, we participate in kingdom work, which brings deep joy. Fourth, our offerings are an opportunity for God to reveal His character; as we demonstrate generosity, He faithfully provides for our needs and blesses us abundantly, “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8). Over and over again, the saying, “You can’t out-give God” proves true.
Giving involves more than money. God has blessed us with talents, time, and resources— along with plenty of opportunities to share them with others. It is important to rely on the Holy Spirit’s guidance so we will know what, to whom, and how much we should give.
Remember, the Lord is continuously giving to us: salvation, comfort, encouragement, breath, life, and countless other blessings. We are indebted to Him and should give back, not just out of obligation, but with gratitude and joy, “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Ask God to reveal any selfishness or other hindrance to sharing—and to help you become more skilled at giving.
Prayer—Father I thank You for the blessing of giving. I ask You to reveal any selfishness or
hindrance in my life that holds me back from giving and sharing what You have
given to Me, in Jesus Name. Amen.
