“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”
Romans 12:1 NKJV
We have established the fact that giving for us as believers is not out of compulsion, but rather is heartfelt. Just like our anchor scripture shows us, when we consider all that God has done for us in Christ Jesus, we respond by giving our all to Him, including our money.
This doesn’t mean we automatically become inclined to give when we receive the life of Christ. Rather, just like we do in every aspect of our Christian devotion, we are intentional about it.
Apostle Paul puts it this way:
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” -Colossians 3:1-2 (NKJV)
As believers, it’s our responsibility to incline our hearts to giving, and we do this by consciously setting structures in place to give. Paul actually admonished the church in Corinth to set aside some money at the beginning of each week towards generosity:
“On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned. Don’t wait until I get there and then try to collect it all at once.” -1 Corinthians 16:2 (NLT)
We should imbibe this practice by having budgets for generosity. Set aside money for giving to the cause of the gospel, to ministers of the gospel, people in need, and other believers. If you rely solely on feelings to give, you are more likely not to give at all.
Remember, thanksgiving ascends to God when you give (1 Corinthians 9:11-15), so always be conscious and intentional about giving.
Bible Reading Plan:
Luke 6:17-26, Philippians 3:10-14, Psalms 119:161-168, 2 Kings 16-17