In what ways can we assess our giving to align with God's blessings today? Key verse “Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the blessings the LORD your God has given you.” Deuteronomy 16:17 What the verse plainly teaches • Everyone gives—no exemptions • Giving is proportional—“as he is able” • The measure is God’s blessing—not human comparison • Blessings are holistic—material, relational, spiritual Echoes across Scripture • Proverbs 3:9–10—“Honor the LORD with your wealth…then your barns will be filled.” • Malachi 3:10—“Bring the full tithe…test Me in this…see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you.” • Luke 6:38—“Give, and it will be given to you…For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” • 2 Corinthians 9:6–8—“God loves a cheerful giver…able to make all grace abound to you.” • 1 Timothy 6:17–19—“Be rich in good works…store up treasure for the coming age.” Practical ways to assess our giving today • Take inventory of God’s blessings – Count tangible income, assets, time, skills, relationships, gospel resources • Establish proportion on the front end – Set a percentage or amount before spending begins (firstfruits) • Check the heart behind the gift – Cheerful, willing, grateful, faith-filled—not reluctant or pressured • Aim for sacrificial generosity – If it never costs comfort, revisit the proportion (2 Samuel 24:24) • Keep giving regular and planned – “On the first day of every week…” 1 Corinthians 16:2 • Prioritize the local church, then widen the circle – Ministry, missions, mercy, the poor (Galatians 6:6-10) • Review and adjust with changing blessing – Promotions, inheritances, debt freedom, new skills—all invite increased generosity • Partner giving with stewardship – Budget, avoid debt slavery, leave margin to bless others (Proverbs 22:7) Warning signs that misalign giving with blessing • Hoarding out of fear or greed • Giving leftovers after lifestyle is funded • Treating generosity as a tip instead of worship • Manipulating God for gain (“prosperity bargain”) • Sporadic impulse giving with no accountability Evidences that our giving is aligned • Joy and contentment deepen (Philippians 4:11-13) • Thanksgiving multiplies in those served (2 Corinthians 9:11) • Needs within the body are met (Acts 4:34) • The gospel advances and disciples grow (Philippians 1:5) • God’s ongoing provision is experienced (Matthew 6:33) Living it out Assess blessings honestly, set a proportionate, faith-filled gift, give it first, and let God’s abundant grace flow through you to others—just as He has promised. |
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