God's Word confirms the statements made above in many famous quotations about giving. 2 Corinthians 9:6-11, Luke 6:38, Proverbs 19:17, Malachi 3:8-11 are only a few of the references God's Word has about giving. Giving is a gift God has designed to open our hearts, hands and minds to His Kingdom and others He is trying to reach. The greatest gift is Jesus and He is our example ... He gave it all!

 

 

Paul goes on to state that gifts are a fragrant offering to God. When we give we become most like our Heavenly Father who gave His Son for our life. God gave His best so we could know eternal joy. God is the ultimate giver and we are created in His image. Thus, we should give and give lavishly. I know it goes against popular opinion but it is right. Give!

 

The benefits of giving are becoming more like Christ as we give sacrificially, becoming more like God as we give to bless others, and simply because that is our new nature in Christ ... blessed to be a blessing! The benefit Paul mentions in verse 19 is that God will "meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus". God simply meets needs when we give. Note, I didn't say desires but needs. God knows how and when to give gifts to His children and what to give. We are simply called to be givers!

 

Friend, I want to lay down a challenge for you. It is a giving challenge. The information can be found here 10 Day Giving Challenge. This challenge breaks the comfort zone of individuals as it ask you to think differently about giving and gifts. Plus, it puts action to God's Word and will. It is my prayer that you are transformed and others are transfornmed through your giving. Bottom line, as you give you become like Jesus!