Proverbs 3:9-10 tells us to “Honor the LORD with your possessions, and with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with new wine.” (ESV)
Giving is one of the central themes in the Bible. Jesus talked more about this subject than heaven, hell or prayer; the only thing Jesus spoke of more than money was the Kingdom of God. To understand what it means to be a Christ-follower, we must also understand what it means to be a giver.
First Things First
God doesn’t need our money; He already owns it all. But when we willingly set aside the first part of our income for the local church, our hearts will be turned toward Him. (Matthew 6:21)
Know Giving, Know Life
Giving is the antidote for materialism. The Bible says that by giving generously we are able to “take hold of that which is truly life.” You aren’t really living unless you are freely giving. (I Timothy 6:19)
The Treasure Test
Giving is the only area in the Bible where God invites us to test Him. Give your tithe (the first 10% of your income) to God and see if He does not open the floodgates of heaven to pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.” (Malachi 3:10)
An Eternal Investment
You can make an investment that pays dividends for a lifetime and beyond. Only two things will last forever: People and The Church. By investing in the life-changing message of the church to promote the message and work of the Gospel, your giving can be leveraged for eternity. (I Timothy 6:7)