Biblical Principles of Giving: A Heart of Generosity, Stewardship, and Worship

• By Muindo Gituku
• April 3, 2025 - 2 min

Giving is an essential part of the Christian life, but it is often misunderstood. Some see it as an obligation, others as a means to prosperity, and others still as an act of charity. However, the Bible teaches that giving is first and foremost a matter of the heart.

Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:7, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." This verse sets the foundation for biblical giving—it is not about the amount but about the attitude behind it. The widow’s offering in Mark 12:41-44 further exemplifies this: while she gave only two small coins, Jesus commended her for giving sacrificially, with a heart full of trust and devotion.

Types of Giving in the Bible

The Bible outlines several forms of giving, each with unique significance:

Tithing, the practice of giving 10% of one’s income, originates from the Old Testament. Malachi 3:10 states, "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it."

While tithing was a requirement under the Mosaic Law, the New Testament shifts the focus from legal obligation to grace-filled generosity.

Unlike tithes, freewill offerings were voluntary. Exodus 35:5 describes an offering that came from "everyone who is willing." Similarly, 2 Corinthians 8:12 emphasizes that giving is acceptable "according to what one has, not according to what one does not have."

Proverbs 19:17 declares, "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done." Jesus reinforced this in Matthew 6:1-4, urging His followers to give discreetly, not for human recognition but as an act of genuine love.

The Bible teaches that giving should be a priority, not an afterthought. Proverbs 3:9-10 instructs, "Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing."

New Testament Teaching on Giving

In the New Testament, giving is emphasized as an act of grace, not law:

• Giving should be done willingly, not under compulsion (2 Corinthians 9:7).
• God provides for those who give generously (2 Corinthians 9:8-11).
• Spiritual rewards outweigh material returns (Philippians 4:17).

Paul’s example in Acts 20:35 teaches that giving is about more than finances: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." True generosity encompasses time, encouragement, service, and hospitality.

Does Giving Guarantee Financial Blessings?

Many misinterpret 2 Corinthians 9:6—"Whoever sows generously will also reap generously"—as a promise of material wealth. However, Paul is not promoting a "prosperity gospel" but encouraging believers to trust in God’s provision. The true reward of giving is spiritual growth and dependence on Christ.

The rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-27) was challenged to give up his wealth, not because money is evil, but because his trust was in riches rather than God. Giving is a test of where our faith truly lies.

What If You Have Nothing to Give?

Many believers struggle with the idea of giving when they have little. However, God honors the willingness more than the amount:

• 2 Corinthians 8:12 – "If the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have."
• The widow’s offering (Luke 21:1-4) – She gave "all she had," demonstrating faith over abundance.
• Non-monetary giving – Generosity is not just about money. Giving time, talents, and encouragement is equally valuable (Romans 12:6-8).

How Should Christians Give Today?

A biblical approach to giving involves:

• Regularity – "On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money..." (1 Corinthians 16:2).
• Proportionate Giving – "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart" (2 Corinthians 9:7).
• Generosity and Cheerfulness – "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7).
• Faith and Worship – "Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased" (Hebrews 13:16).

Conclusion: Giving as a Reflection of God’s Grace

At its core, giving is an act of worship and a reflection of God’s grace. Christ, who "though he was rich, became poor for our sake" (2 Corinthians 8:9), exemplifies the ultimate generosity. When we give, we imitate God’s heart, align ourselves with His purposes, and experience the joy of being conduits of His blessing to others.

May our giving always be an overflow of gratitude, faith, and love for the One who gave us everything.