Why We Give
Developing spiritual habits is crucial for growth as disciples of Jesus. Today, we focus on the spiritual habit of giving, a topic that is often considered taboo in church discussions. The Bible emphasizes giving more than many other subjects, including heaven and hell, and Jesus frequently addressed it in His teachings. This emphasis is because our spiritual lives are deeply connected to how we handle money and possessions. John the Baptist's responses to different groups in Luke 3 illustrate that a transformed life is evident in how we manage our resources. Our relationship with Jesus should impact every aspect of our lives, including finances.
Giving is an act of worship and a demonstration of putting God first in our lives. The Bible teaches us to honor God with the first and best part of our income, promising blessings in return. Tithing, which means giving 10% of our income, is a biblical principle that predates the law and continues into the New Testament. Jesus affirmed the practice of tithing, emphasizing that it should not overshadow other important aspects of faith like justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
Tithing is not the ceiling but the floor of generous living. It is the starting point for a life of generosity. The tithe belongs to the local church, the place where we worship, and should be given consistently. Offerings, on the other hand, are freewill gifts given above the tithe, determined by how God has blessed us. Giving reminds us that everything we have comes from God and is a cure for materialism. It strengthens our faith, as God uses our finances to test and grow our trust in Him.
Generosity is the antidote to materialism, and giving is a way to break free from the grip of greed. It is a demonstration of faith, as God promises to bless and protect those who honor Him with their resources. Giving also blesses us in return, as it aligns with God's economy where generosity leads to prosperity. The happiest people are not the takers but the givers, as giving is an indicator of good mental health and spiritual well-being.