The Blessedness of Giving

INTRODUCTION

Giving is an act of providing something, especially money, materials or other resources, to help others or support a cause. In a biblical context, it means to share one’s blessings, talents, and resources with others and demonstrate love, generosity, and trust in God’s provision. It is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith that shows God’s generous nature and our love for Him and others. In this study, we will consider the biblical principles of giving, the blessings of giving and what implications these have for our lives.

OUTLINE

Biblical Principles of Giving

The Blessings of Giving

BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES OF GIVING

God’s generosity is the foundation of giving. He gave His only Son - Jesus Christ, to save humanity from sin (John 3:16, Matthew 1:21). This ultimate act of generosity sets the standard for giving. The Bible admonishes believers to give bountifully, sacrificially, willingly, and joyfully (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

When we give sacrificially, we demonstrate our commitment to God’s kingdom (2 Samuel 24:24). Giving is an act of worship and a proof of our devotion to God. We also express our gratitude for His blessings in our lives when we give.

Some biblical instances of generous giving include Abraham, who gave “tithes of all” to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-20), and the early church, which shared their possessions to meet one another’s needs (Acts 2:44-45).

THE BLESSINGS OF GIVING

Giving brings spiritual blessings, including joy, peace, and a deeper relationship with God (Acts 20:35). When we give, we experience God’s presence and guidance in our lives (Acts 10:1-4; Hebrews 13:16). Giving helps us grow in our faith and acknowledge that God will meet our needs (Philippians 4:19).

One way to know you have conquered greed is through giving (1 Timothy 6:17-18). Now, the Bible promises material blessings for those who give generously (Luke 6:38). Generous giving brings prosperity (Proverbs 11:24-25). In addition, giving blesses others (Acts 4:34-35). We also build relationships with others through giving (1 John 3:16-18). Also, generosity fuels revival and kingdom expansion (Acts 4:32-35). Ultimately, we lay up treasures in heaven through giving (Matthew 6:19-20; Luke 12:33; Proverbs 19:17).

CONCLUSION

Live to give, give to live. By giving sacrificially, willingly, and joyfully, we experience the blessings of giving, which include spiritual and material blessings.

QUESTIONS

What are the biblical principles of giving?

Mention four blessings of giving.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: 1 Kings 17:8-16.

MON: Philippians 4:19.

TUE: Ecclesiastes 11:1-4.

WED: Acts 20:35.

THUR: Proverbs 11:24-25.

FRI: Luke 6:38.

SAT: Hebrews 13:16.

ASSIGNMENT

Identify five (5) blessings of giving in 1 Kings 17.

(2×5 = 10 marks)