Definition of Giving
The most searched for terms about giving are, define give, give def, give meaning, or the meaning of giving. Let’s answer that.
The Bible tells us that our God is a giver!
Giving for Christians is the act of donating resources or possessions to others as an expression of their faith in Jesus Christ. It is an essential component of Christian life and is rooted in the belief that God is the ultimate giver, having given humanity His Son, Jesus Christ, as a sacrifice for their sins.
Giving generously of our financial resources through tithes and offerings is an act of worship and thanksgiving. So too, is when we give generously of our time and talents to serve God.
Christian stewardship is not solely limited to financial contributions but also encompasses the giving of one’s time, talents, and skills for the benefit of others. The Bible teaches that giving should be done with a cheerful heart and without expecting anything in return. Christians believe that they are called to be generous and to use their resources to help those in need, including the poor, the sick, and the marginalized.
Giving is also seen as an act of worship and an acknowledgement that everything a Christian has comes from God. The concept of tithing, or giving 10% of one’s income to the church, is a common practice in many Christian communities as a way of supporting the church’s ministry and outreach programs.
Ultimately, giving for Christians is a way of demonstrating their love for God and their commitment to serving others. It is an opportunity to share their blessings with those who are less fortunate and to make a positive impact in the world.
John 3:16 (ESV): “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.“
Ephesians 2:8–9 (ESV): For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
James 1:17 (ESV): Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
We give because God gives generously
- Giving is to be intentional and regular: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV
- “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:10
- “Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” – Luke 6:38
- “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.” – Proverbs 3:9-10
- “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” – Proverbs 19:17
- “Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back.” – Luke 6:30
- “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.” – 1 Timothy 6:17-18
- “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” – Philippians 2:4
- “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” – 1 John 3:17
- “The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” – 2 Corinthians 9:6