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God’s Word has much to say about how we should give. Based on Paul’s instructions in 2 Corinthians 8–9, we should give…
1. With gratitude and glory to God.
2. Cheerfully, joyfully, with delight, with enthusiasm, and with love. The sight of someone in need should awaken a desire that can’t be
stilled until we do something.
3. Willingly, and not under pressure.
4. Simply, and without pretense.
5. With no ulterior motive. God wants us to give for the sake of helping,
rather than to make us feel better, assuage some feeling of guilt, or give us a feeling of prestige.
6. Sometimes anonymously. Giving anonymously is a fine idea, but there may be
times when God wants you to be open about it as an encouragement to others. Just make sure that’s the real reason and that you’ve heard from God.
7. Liberally, sacrificially, not just
our leftovers. This spirit prevailed in the early church, where property owners often sold all they had and shared the proceeds with other Christians in need. What is our responsibility
to our brothers and sisters in Christ all over the world who are suffering for their beliefs?
8. Proportionately. Those who have more should give more in absolute terms, as well as in
percentage of income or net worth terms.
9. Out of what we have, not what we haven’t. We should not give or commit to give so much that it causes us to go deeply into debt. (See II
Corinthians 8:12)
10. With faith.
11. Fairly.
12. Thoughtfully, wisely, seeking God’s counsel and perhaps that of fellow believers.
13. In partnership with others (I Corinthians 16:2)
14. With the expectation that the recipient will praise God for our help, be accountable and not have an easy time at our expense.
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