Christian Giving

by Richard Thetford

Will a man rob God? There are some who rob God of what belongs to Him in the first place. In Malachi 3:8-9 we can read: "Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, 'In what way have we robbed You?' In tithes and offerings. You are cursed with a curse, for you have robbed Me, even this whole nation." Christians need to think about their giving and ask the question: "Am I robbing God?" I have never known anyone that suddenly became impoverished by giving of their means to God. In fact, what usually happens is the individual that does give bountifully will reap bountifully. The one who cares enough about God to give to Him will be blessed.

Why Should A Christian Give?

There are several reasons why a Christian should give. First of all, Christ was a gift to us from our heavenly Father (John 3:16). Secondly, because eternal life is a gift of God (Romans 6:23). Thirdly, because in giving we are blessed (Acts 20:35). A disciple of Christ learns that it is important to give back to God as we have been prospered in our daily life (I Corinthians 16:2). Knowing that we have been prospered we will give freely and cheerfully (II Corinthians 9:7; 8:12). When a Christian fails to give to God it is a sin. When one does not give to God as they have prospered, it puts a burden on others (II Corinthians 8:13). Paul even admitted that he did wrong in not teaching the Corinthians to give as they should (II Corinthians 12:13). May we all strive to give as we have been prospered so we will be blessed.