God’s Grace and Our Finances

“Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed; as it is written,
‘He scattered abroad, He Gave to the poor,
His righteousness endures forever.’
Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness; you will be enriched in everything for all liberality, which through us is producing thanksgiving to God. For the ministry of this service is not only fully supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing through many thanksgivings to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-12

God’s goal in blessing us financially isn’t just so we can enjoy wealth and prosperity. He blesses us so we can be a blessing to others. The apostle Paul writes: “...he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:6-7).

Before you begin any giving program, seek God’s wisdom concerning your situation. Many times we compulsively jump ahead of Him which, in the end, can be as dangerous as withholding help from people and causes He wants us to support.

A good place to start is with the tithe. We give back to God a percentage of what He has given us. Our motivation for giving should be one of love and thanksgiving and never obligation. Tithing is a step of faith and declares God as the principle source and benefactor of all we have.

Sacrificial giving begins only after we have tithed and met our financial responsibilities. It is amazing how He stretches our finances when we obey and trust Him for the future. Ask God to make you sensitive to His will for your life. Pray that His grace will be evident to you as your give to others.