What Is Giving?

We would like to think that our money belongs to us, and that we can pretty much do with it as we please. Yet, Scripture reminds us that it is God who has given us the ability to produce wealth:

“But remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth” (Deut. 8:18).

The Lord can and may bless you with riches. That does not mean that you have to be a millionaire. Being rich is somewhat relative—especially if you compare your wealth with a good portion of humanity in the rest of the world.

“Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share” (1 Timothy 6:17–18).

If God does bless you materially, the Bible says that He requires three things of you:

Do not be arrogant or place your ultimate hope in wealth.

Your wealth will soon be gone. You can’t take it with you after you die!

Use your money for good.

You are not an owner, but a steward of your money. For that reason, you should do good with what God has given you. Along these lines, Paul told the believers in Philippi that their financial gift to him would result in a reward for them, “fruit that abounds to [their] account” (Philippians 4:17). Then he went on to promise “God shall supply all your need” (Philippians 4:19). From this we see that when you invest your money into the work of the kingdom of God, you are actually laying up for yourselves treasure in Heaven (see Matthew 6:19–21).

Enjoy what God has given you.

God richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. We should not feel guilty about the blessings God has given us.