Giving to the church is more than a financial transaction; it’s an act of worship, an expression of trust, and a way to invest in God’s kingdom. While money can be a sensitive topic, the Bible presents giving as a joyful part of our relationship with God. Why do we give to the church, and what does it mean in the broader context of our faith? Let’s explore the purpose, meaning, and blessings of giving.
Giving as a Response to God’s Generosity
When we give, we’re responding to the incredible generosity of God Himself. Everything we have—our resources, time, and abilities—ultimately comes from Him. Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” Recognizing that all we possess belongs to God helps us see giving as a privilege rather than a loss. We’re simply returning a portion of what He has entrusted to us.
In the Old Testament, God’s people were called to give tithes and offerings, acknowledging His provision and expressing their gratitude (Leviticus 27:30-32). This practice reinforced their trust in God’s provision. In the New Testament, giving continues to be an essential part of faith—not as a duty, but as an act of love and gratitude.
Giving as an Act of Worship
When we give, we’re worshiping God in a deeply personal way. Paul encourages in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Giving isn’t about meeting a requirement or feeling pressured; it’s a joyful response to God’s goodness and faithfulness.
Jesus highlighted this kind of sacrificial giving when He praised the widow who gave two small coins (Mark 12:41-44). Though her offering was tiny in material value, it was enormous in faith. She gave out of love, trusting God with her limited resources. This story reminds us that God values the heart behind our giving. It’s not the amount but the willingness to give generously and joyfully that matters most to Him.
Supporting the Church’s Mission and Ministry
When we give to the church, we’re helping it fulfill its mission. The early church shared resources to care for one another and advance the gospel. Acts 2:44-45 tells us, “All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” This spirit of generosity helped the early church grow and spread Christ’s message of hope and salvation.
Today, our giving supports worship, discipleship, outreach, and practical needs. It enables the church to care for people in need, reach the lost, and disciple believers. By giving, we become active participants in God’s work, helping the church shine as a light in the world.
Trusting God with Our Resources
Letting go of financial resources can be challenging, especially when money is tight. But giving also strengthens our trust in God. Jesus taught us in Matthew 6:25-33 not to worry about our material needs, assuring us that God knows what we need. When we give, we’re placing our trust in His provision, resting in His faithfulness rather than our financial security.
Paul speaks about this in 2 Corinthians 9:6, saying, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” This isn’t a promise of material wealth, but a reminder that God honors generosity. Through giving, we experience His blessings in ways that go beyond material gain.
Cultivating a Heart of Generosity
At its heart, giving helps us develop a generous spirit. When we give to the church, we align our priorities with God’s and invest in things that have eternal value. Proverbs 11:25 reminds us, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Giving not only blesses others, but it also brings spiritual growth and fulfillment to us.
Generosity also guards our hearts against materialism. Jesus warned in Matthew 6:19-21, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” By giving to the church and other causes close to God’s heart, we focus on His kingdom rather than earthly possessions.