Scripture
Reference: Luke 6:38 (KJV)
"Give,
and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken
together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same
measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again."
Introduction
Giving
is such a divine principle, and it is rooted in the very nature of God. We, as
believers, are supposed to let His generosity overflow from our lives. It is
not limited to financial input, but it deals with time, talents, and other
resources. A powerful act since it transforms, not only other people's lives,
but gives blessings and spiritually grows the giver.
In
this sermon, we shall look at the power of giving, its biblical foundations,
and how it unlocks blessings in our lives.
1. Understanding the Principle of Giving
A. God Is the Ultimate
Giver
- Creation:
God gave us life and gave man dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:26-28).
- Salvation:
God gave the ultimate gift through Jesus Christ. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his
only begotten Son."
B. Giving Reflects
God's Character
As
we give, we imitate God's generosity. Acts
20:35 reminds us, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
C. Giving Is an Act of
Worship
Giving
is more than just a financial transaction; it is a spiritual act of worship
acknowledging God as source and provider.
2. The Biblical Power of Giving
A. Giving Opens the
Heavens
- Malachi 3:10
says, "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse and prove me now herewith,
said the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour
you out a blessing."
- Giving invites God's blessings into our lives.
- It shows trust in His provision.
B. Giving Breaks the
Spirit of Greed
Matthew 6:24
warns, "Ye cannot serve God and mammon." Giving turns our focus from
material possessions to eternal values.
C. Giving Multiplies
Resources
- Proverbs 11:24-25
teaches, "There is that scattered, and yet increase. The liberal soul
shall be made fat."
- The more we give, the more God entrusts us with.
- Giving creates a cycle of abundance.
D. Giving Brings Joy
and Fulfillment
- 2 Corinthians 9:7
says, "God loves a cheerful giver."
- True joy comes from blessing others.
- Giving unites our hearts with God's purposes.
3. Practical Ways to Give
A. Financial Giving
- Tithes and Offerings:
Honor God with the first fruits of your income (Proverbs 3:9-10).
- Charity:
Support the needy, the widows, and the orphans (James 1:27).
B. Giving Time
- Volunteer in your church or community.
- Spend quality time building up others through mentoring and encouraging them.
C. Sharing Talents and
Skills
- Use your God-given abilities to serve others (1 Peter 4:10).
- Provide your input to help them grow and thrive.
D. Encouragement and
Love
- Give them words of life and hope when they need it (Ephesians 4:29).
- Be an oasis of emotional and spiritual support.
4. The Rewards of Giving
A. God's Provision
- Philippians 4:19
promises, "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches
in glory by Christ Jesus."
- When we give, we're trusting God with our needs.
- He gives abundantly, often in unexpected ways.
B. Spiritual Growth
- Giving strengthens our faith and deepens our relationship with God.
- It teaches us to depend on Him as our source.
- It helps us develop a heart of gratitude.
C. Eternal Rewards
- Matthew 6:19-20
reminds us to lay up treasures in heaven.
- Giving impacts lives for eternity.
- God rewards our faithfulness both now and in the life to come.
D. Strengthened
Relationships
- Proverbs 18:16
says, "A man’s gift makes room for him, and Bridget him before great
men."
- Generosity fosters connections and goodwill.
- It opens doors to opportunities and favor.
5. Overcoming Barriers to Giving
A. Fear of Lack
- Trust God’s promise in Matthew 6:33: "Seek ye first the kingdom of God. And all these things shall be added unto you."
- Giving reminds us that God is our provider.
B. Selfishness and
Greed
- Pray for a heart of compassion and generosity.
- Meditate on scriptures that highlight the blessings of giving.
C. Lack of Faith
- Remember God's faithfulness in your life.
- Step out in faith, knowing He will honor your obedience.
Conclusion
The
power to give lies in its ability to transform lives: the giver and the
recipient. It is a divine principle reflecting God's heart, inviting His
blessings, and impacting eternity. As you give, you come into alignment with
God's purposes, break free from materialism, and experience the joy of living
generously.
Call to Action:
- Reflect on how you can give more intentionally—whether it be through finances, time, talents, or encouragement.
- Trust God to provide as you step out in faith.
- Share your testimony of how giving has impacted your life and others.
Closing Scripture:
"Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together and running over." (Luke 6:38, KJV)
