Giving is often taken for granted as a foundational tenet of Christianity, but it’s worth pausing to consider why we give. From beginning to end in God’s Word, we can see how God constantly provides. In fact, John 3:16 (NIV) begins, “For God so loved the world that he gave…”
God’s provision is not limited to the pages of scripture. When we pay attention, we can see that God is the source of every good thing in our lives. God is the sustainer of life and the source of all goodness, truth, and beauty. There is no escaping God’s generosity.
When we meditate on God’s goodness and generosity to us, we delight in pouring out His goodness on others. Here are four reasons why we give.
1. We give to worship.
The first mention of humanity worshiping in the Bible is in the story of Abraham. God told Abraham to take his son Isaac to the mountain and sacrifice him to the Lord. Scripturally, the term sacrifice is synonymous with giving. A sacrifice is forfeited, or given up.
When they arrived at the designated place, Abraham told his servants, “Stay here with the donkey, while my son and I go over there to worship” (Genesis 22:5 CEV). Abraham was acting in obedience to God, and this was an act of worship.
When we give, we offer our worship to the Lord.
2. We give to acknowledge God is owner of all.
As Christians, we want to put to good use what God has given us. He provides for our needs, and by giving we demonstrate our trust that He will continue to do so. We are stewards on His behalf, using what He has given to do His work.
When we give, we demonstrate submission to the Lord and trust in Him.
3. We give because there is need.
In the Old Testament, the tithe was used to care for the priests, strangers, widows, and orphans. Jesus says when we give to those who are in need, we give to Him. We are a part of the body of Christ, and having the ability to help others financially is a spiritual gift. What joy is found in helping others!
When we give, we participate in the work God is doing in the world.
4. We give to spread the gospel.
We give to support our churches, to further educational organizations, and support missionary and humanitarian efforts—all to bring hope to the world. Our giving can impact others in profound ways.
When we give, we seek to build God’s Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
We can be conduits of God’s goodness. We can reflect His character by giving generously. As we grow in our giving, God will continue to use us in ways that make a difference in the world and in our own hearts.
