FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 12:13: Distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
Our care for brothers and sisters in Christ should reach down right into our wallets and purses and cost us. Paul presents this as a privilege rather than a sacrifice because the word “share” is one of our great Christian words, which suggests a common sharing or fellowship. Love’s care is natural and right and joyful! When Christ’s Church is living in love, the needs of its people are met through sharing and caring. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:6–7
Have you noticed that God follows the money? It reveals the condition and attitude of the heart. Sadly, most people give more to a server at a restaurant than they do to their church. “Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.” Malachi 3:8–10
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
If you continue to bless others, He will continue to bless you.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
Remember the words of Jesus, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Acts 20:35
Dear Father, may I honor You with the first fruits of all that I receive, from a paycheck or from the generosity of another. May I give to You first. May You bless what I keep.
1. Hughes, R. K. (1991). Romans: righteousness from heaven (p. 230). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
