by Ester yusufu | 28 October 2024 08:46 am10
(A Perspective on Offerings and Giving)
This teaching is not designed to pressure or manipulate anyone into giving. Instead, it aims to present sound, biblical understanding of the spiritual benefits that come from giving to God—regardless of the form (money, resources, time, or talent).
Giving is not a responsibility limited to church members. It applies to everyone—pastors, evangelists, bishops, apostles, elders, choir members, and all believers. Every follower of Christ is called to participate in the grace of giving, because it is both an act of worship and an expression of God’s character in us.
As it is written:
Isaiah 48:17
“This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: ‘I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.’”
God teaches us to give not just for the benefit of others, but for our spiritual growth, blessing, and the increase of thanksgiving to His name.
In his letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul reveals a profound truth about giving:
2 Corinthians 9:11–12
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.”
This scripture outlines two levels of impact when we give:
Our giving becomes an act of doxology—a word that means giving praise and glory to God. It reflects God’s own generosity (cf. John 3:16) and leads others into worship.
The ultimate purpose of all Christian acts, including giving, is to bring glory to God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
You might think that thanksgiving is a small thing. But biblically, thanksgiving is central to spiritual life. It acknowledges God’s goodness, deepens faith, and aligns our hearts with heaven.
Psalm 50:23
“Those who sacrifice thank offerings honor me, and to the blameless I will show my salvation.”
God honors those who honor Him through thanksgiving. And when your giving causes others to thank God, you are participating in that sacred offering.
Consider this:
This is a Christlike pattern. Jesus Himself, before feeding the 5,000, gave thanks (John 6:11). Giving and gratitude go hand in hand in the kingdom of God.
Giving does more than bless others—it forms Christ’s character in us. It fights selfishness, builds faith, and connects us to God’s purposes. As Paul reminds us:
Acts 20:35
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Why? Because giving participates in God’s divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). God is a giver, and when we give in His name, we reflect Him and glorify Him.
Your giving matters. Not just because it helps others—but because it leads to thanksgiving and worship, which brings God joy. And that is one of the greatest benefits of all.
So don’t see your giving as a small act. See it as an eternal investment, one that brings:
2 Corinthians 9:11–12
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God… it is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.”
May the Lord bless you richly as you grow in the grace of giving.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2024/10/28/a-key-benefit-of-giving-to-god/
Copyright ©2025 Wingu la Mashahidi unless otherwise noted.