The Bible contains thousands of verses on the subject of money and possessions, and Jesus talked about money in many of His parables. Clearly we can see that the Bible has much to teach us about having and giving. We encourage you to dig into God’s Word and discover the truth in these important teachings.
Here are just a few of the relevant Scripture passages concerning serving and giving (NIV):
Everything belongs to God.
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;” (Psalm 24:1)
God has created us and called us to serve.
“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10)
God desires for all of us to give generously.
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” (Luke 12:48)
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-21)
“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 fi rm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19)
We are free to give as we determine.
"Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:6)
God blesses those who give.
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” (2 Corinthians 9:7)
“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25)
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.” (Proverbs 5:9-10)
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38)
If you have questions or would like to speak to someone about giving, please contact Jack Arney, Executve Pastor, at 858-3080, ext. 312.