Give

Giving is meant to be wholehearted — not reluctant or forced. When we give reluctantly, it feels more like a transaction than an act of love, and it can turn the church into a marketplace where people expect something in return. When we give out of compulsion, just because it’s what we’re "supposed" to do, it can lead to self-righteousness and a culture of judgment. True giving comes from a heart that’s freely partnering with God, not trying to earn something back.

Giving is meant to be full of real joy. The word “cheerful” in Scripture comes from the Greek word hilaros, where we get the word “hilarious.” True generosity reflects the same surprising, overwhelming grace God shows to us. When the Holy Spirit makes us new, He brings gifts with Him — and part of that new life is a heart that gives freely and gladly.

Giving is a spiritual gift, just like prophecy, teaching, encouragement, and leadership. Some people in the church are gifted givers, but it’s not always tied to the size of the gift. True generosity often shows up in small, unseen ways that reflect a heart shaped by the Spirit, not by recognition or applause. This kind of generosity is a gift both to the giver and the receiver.

The heart behind our giving matters deeply. Scripture makes it clear that trying to gain a reputation through will end in dangerous consequences. God doesn’t punish every wrong motive, but He does make it clear that the heart comes first. If we forget that, it’s easy to slip into seeing money, power, and even people the way the world does — not the way grace teaches us to.