Generosity: 10 Reasons Why.
Generous Living: What Does the Bible Say?
Giving is a central part of the Christian life, reflecting God’s generosity toward us. The Bible teaches that everything we have comes from God (Psalm 24:1), and we are called to steward our resources wisely. Jesus Himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35), emphasizing the spiritual rewards of generosity. Giving to God’s kingdom is not just about money—it includes our time, talents, and resources to support God’s work on earth.
So why should we give? Here are ten biblical reasons to give to the kingdom agenda.
10 Reasons Why You Should Give
1. Obedience to God
God commands us to give. In Malachi 3:10, He instructs His people to bring their tithes and offerings into His house, promising blessings in return. Obedience in giving demonstrates our trust in His provision.
This Bible verse especially has been an ongoing debate among Christians about whether tithing—giving 10% of one’s income to the church—is a mandatory practice for modern believers. Some argue that tithing was an Old Testament requirement and is no longer applicable under the New Testament, while others see it as a vital principle of biblical stewardship that remains relevant today. While it may be true that this is an Old Testament instruction, like so many other practices under the Old Testament, they serve a s a guide to New Testament believers the reason to give. How much to give may be of debate but giving should not.
Jesus talking at some point said this - Matthew 23:23 (NKJV): "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone."
2. Advancing the Gospel
Giving supports ministries, missions, and churches that spread the gospel. In Philippians 4:15-17, Paul thanked the Philippians for their financial support, showing how giving helps the message of Christ reach more people.
Philippians 4:15-17 (NKJV): 15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.
Those who preach the Gospel need funds to take care of themselves and their families and the needs that come up in the process of fulfilling the mission committed to them.
3. Helping Those in Need
Jesus taught us to care for the poor. Proverbs 19:17 says, “If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord—and he will repay you!” Giving to those in need reflects God’s love and brings His blessings.
When we pray, God uses other people to answer those prayers. Our giving becomes the answer to other’s prayers. Thereby becoming God’s hands and feet to fulfill His purpose on earth.
4. Storing Up Heavenly Treasures
Jesus said, “Store your treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). When we give to the kingdom, we invest in eternal rewards rather than temporary material wealth. Giving has rewards here on earth and in Heaven.
Luke 6:38 (NKJV): "Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you."
5. Demonstrating Love and Compassion
Giving reflects God’s love. 1 John 3:17 asks, “If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person?” True love is demonstrated through generosity.
6. Breaking the Power of Greed
Giving helps us resist materialism and greed. Jesus warned in Luke 12:15, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.” A generous heart keeps us spiritually free.
When we are not afraid to share of our resources, we are breaking the fear of lack. It’s true, the resources are ours but we would not have them if not given ot us by God.
7. Trusting God as Provider
Giving reminds us that God is our source. In 2 Corinthians 9:8, Paul writes, “And God will generously provide all you need.” When we give, we trust God to take care of our needs.
8. Being a Channel of God’s Blessings
God blesses us so we can bless others. 2 Corinthians 9:10 says, “For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.”
Like the farmer always set aside a portion of the harvest for sowing, we set aside some of our earnings to share with others.
in the story of Ruth and Naomi in the Bible, Boaz was God’s answer to these two women. Ruth went to glean on the field to take care of herself and her mother in law. There are Ruth’s and Naomi’s amongst us, even ourselves may have been in similar situations. Giving makes sure needs are met in such situation.
Then Boaz said to Ruth, “You will listen, my daughter, will you not? Do not go to glean in another field, nor go from here, but stay close by my young women. 9 Let your eyes be on the field which they reap, and go after them. Have I not commanded the young men not to touch you? And when you are thirsty, go to the vessels and drink from what the young men have drawn.” Ruth 2:8-9 NKJV
9. Fulfilling the Great Commission
Giving helps spread the gospel worldwide. When we support missionaries, churches, and Christian organizations, we play a part in fulfilling Jesus' command to “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
10. Experiencing Joy and Blessings
Generosity leads to joy. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” The joy of giving comes from knowing we are partnering with God in His work.
Where and Who to Give To
As Christians, we should give wisely and prayerfully. Some key areas include:
Local Churches – Supporting your home church ensures the gospel continues to be preached and community needs are met.
Missionary Work – Many missionaries rely on donations to take the gospel to unreached areas.
Christian Ministries – Organizations that provide food, shelter, education, and medical care in Christ’s name.
Individuals in Need – Helping the poor, widows, and orphans (James 1:27).
Kingdom Projects – Building churches, schools, and hospitals in underserved areas.
Other Projects we are passionate about.
Giving is not just an obligation; it’s an opportunity to partner with God in His work. When we give with a willing and cheerful heart, we reflect God’s love and experience His blessings in return. Remember, generosity is not measured by the amount but by the heart behind it (Mark 12:41-44).
Resources for Further Study
Books: The Blessed Life by Robert Morris, The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn
Bible Passages: Malachi 3:10, 2 Corinthians 9, Proverbs 11:24-25
Sermons & Teachings: Check out messages from trusted pastors like Robert Morris, John Piper, and Tony Evans on biblical giving.
May your giving be a reflection of your faith and love for God’s kingdom!