Principles of the Art of Giving

Principle #1 I Our money is not our money

The Bible makes some clear statements about material possessions. Essentially, it all boils down to one simple fact: God created the universe, and everything in it is His—including your car, your house, and your bank account. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17, NIV).

Principle #2 I God requests a portion back

Once we have acknowledged that everything we own belongs to God, it follows in a natural progression to want to give something back. Through tithing, we can begin to act upon the gratitude and thanksgiving that we feel. “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops” (Proverbs 3:9, NIV).

Principle #3 I Attitude matters

Giving with an ulterior motive is not really giving. It is a subtle form of self-deception that enables us to feel good about ourselves while we continue to wallow in our own selfishness. This self-serving kind of giving is not what God had in mind. “Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NRSV).

Principle #4 I Offerings for God’s work

While tithing is important and a right attitude is essential, it is not the sum total of what God expects a Christian to give. Throughout the Bible, people brought offerings to God. It is clear that believers were expected and encouraged to be prepared to give above and beyond a tithe for the furtherance of the God’s work. “On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made” (1 Corinthians 16:2, NIV).

Principle #5 I The attribute of giving

In summary, giving is one of the distinguishing traits of a true follower of Jesus. The setting aside of tithe and the regular giving of offerings are part of an important spiritual discipline. "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21, NASB).