Big Idea: When we give to the things that God cares about, we store up treasures in heaven. Our everyday living positions us to serve as conduits of God’s generosity.
Our giving reflects God’s love to the world. When we give to God (and the things He cares about), we make Him known on earth and we store up treasures in heaven. We can give at all times and on all occasions because God supplies the resources for our generosity. Stewards realize that God’s generous design leads us not to destitution, but rather, distribution. In giving we don’t end up empty, but instead, enriched for greater generosity.
When we follow the teachings of Jesus, we become conduits of financial and spiritual blessings. Our giving looks different from the world and we grasp life as God intends for us.
The video and the corresponding content present five themes on storing up treasures in heaven. Notice how the world’s teaching related to giving is different from what we find in God’s Word!
1. The Purpose of Giving
World Teaches: The purpose of giving is to meet temporal needs as they arise.
World says: I give to meet needs for things that I care about and that match my values.
Word Teaches: Generous giving meets needs and glorifies God (see 2 Corinthians 9:10–12).
Word says: Christian giving results in worship of God (see 2 Corinthians 9:13–15).
2. The Source of Gifts
World Teaches: Scarcity mind-set: give to only a few recipients as funds are scarce.
World says: I have limited funds so I give where I will get the most bang for my buck.
Word Teaches: Abundance mind-set: share at all times and all around (see 2 Corinthians 9:6–9).
Word says: Don’t worry, be rich toward God, give to the needy (see Luke 12:22–34).
3. The Motivation for Sharing
World Teaches: Give to those who you determine merit your support the most.
World says: I evaluate charities to see who is the most deserving.
Word Teaches: Prioritize but do not discriminate in gracious giving (see Galatians 6:6–10).
Word says: Giving reflects that God’s grace is for everyone (see Matthew 25:31–46).
4. The Guiding Accounting Principles
World Teaches: Gauge your giving based on tax implications and percentages.
World says: I determine how much to give based on laws and tax allowances.
Word Teaches: Beyond the measure of taxes and laws, give as God provides (see 1 Corinthians 16:2).
Word says: God wants me to freely give and He keeps track of my giving (see Philippians 4:17).
5. The Promise of Rewards
World Teaches: Give generously and you will get recognition and perks in return.
World says: My favorite charities know how to take care of their donors right away.
Word Teaches: Give freely. God rewards givers now and later (see Acts 10:1–4; Luke 16:1–9).
Word says: In giving, we grasp eternal life now (see Mark 10:17–31; 1 Timothy 6:17–19).
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. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a rm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. (1 Timothy 6:17)
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Did you find this article helpful, challenging, or promising? It’s part of a larger resource designed to help you think about finances and stewardship in a biblical, godly way. In Good and Faithful: Ten Stewardship Lessons for Everyday Living, Dr. Gary Hoag offers three sections of helpful financial teaching: 1) Biblical foundations 2) Core practices 3) Financial skills. Throughout the book and video resource, you’ll learn how to practically apply Bible verses and biblical principles to everyday tasks like budgeting, investing, and debt management. It’s perfect for individuals, families, or group studies. Get your copies from our store here.