Why should we give money to the church or to ministries? And where should we give?
Why we give can be answered in a four-fold way.
- Giving expresses the life of Christ. He who was rich became poor for us, according to 2 Corinthians 8:9. If we want people to see Christ in us, we give to help others.
- One who gives can expect fruit (Philippians 4:17). Paul encouraged giving because it connects people with ministry and future rewards.
- Through giving we grow in our faith in the Lord. Sometimes it is not logical to give, but faith trusts God to provide the means to give financially. In 2 Corinthians 9:8 God promises He is able to make all grace abound. He not only promises to provide for our need, but also for our seed; that which we scatter to ministries, churches or needy people.
- Giving helps eliminate selfish materialism. When we are surrendered to the Lord our finances will come under His control. This means when we think of our monies, we do not immediately plan the next big buy or the want of a new “” Instead, we think in terms of considering the needs of others. Philippians 2:3-4 commands that we look on the needs of others and put others’ interests ahead of our own.
Where should we give?
Scripture indicates we should give where we are taught the word (Gal. 6:6). We should also give where there are needs, as set forth in 2 Corinthians 8-9. How can we justify giving to ministries where money is being used for personal gain, instead of helping reach others for Christ? We need to do our homework before giving in order to insure the ministry has a solid theology and is using finances for the gospel.
Veteran Opportunity. One area of need today is ministering to our veterans who suffer with PTSD, the emotional and mental wounds of war. Grace Solutions has begun an outreach to help with this need in our community. Twenty-two veterans a day, on average, commit suicide nationwide. God might lead you to help by investing your time or treasures in this vital ministry. Call our office at 205-967-4888 today for more information.
-Jay Jackson
Exec. Dir. Grace Solutions Internations
Mtn. Brook, Ala. 967-4888, [email protected]
