February 15, 2011

The Bible has a lot to say to us as Christians about being a good steward of the gifts that God gives us. Being a good steward is an important aspect of our Christian walk. As we give, we grow in our relationship with the Lord and our brothers and sisters in Christ. Let’s take a look at just a few of the Bible verses about giving in His Word:

Give First
“When you come into the land that the LORD your God is giving you for an inheritance and have taken possession of it and live in it, you shall take some of the first of all the fruit of the ground … and you shall put it in a basket, and you shall go to the place that the LORD your God will choose, to make his name to dwell there” (Deuteronomy 26:1-2 ESV).

Give Intentionally
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV).

Give According to Your Means
“For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints” (2 Corinthians 8:3-4 ESV).

Give Generously
“We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part” (2 Corinthians 8:1-2 ESV).

And in Luke 12:34 Jesus says, “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (ESV)

God Loves a Cheerful Giver
“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV).

How are we doing as stewards of the gifts God has bestowed upon us? God’s Word, which is inspired by God, instructs us to give first, to give intentionally, to give according to our means, to give generously, and to be a cheerful giver. As you read and digest these verses think about your stewardship of God’s gifts.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you have given me so much. My family, friends, food, house, and job. But most of all, you have given me faith in you. And you have forgiven me of all my sins and granted me eternal life in heaven with you. Thank you for loving me, even when I’m unlovable. Help my faith grow as I study your Word and live out my faith. Help me become a better steward of all of these gifts you have given me. In Your Name. Amen.