Giving to God

Giving is a subject of perennial discussion among Christians. Should we practice “storehouse tithing,” that is to give all our money through a local church? Is tithing (giving 10 percent of one’s salary to God) scriptural for New Testament saints? Whatever opinion we hold, it must be kept in mind that, because of Calvary, all that we have and all that we are belong to God. His blood has redeemed us to Himself (1 Cor. 6:19, 20). Therefore God is interested not only in the 10 percent I might give him but also concerned about what I do with the remaining 90 percent I keep for myself. Three key principles about giving are laid down for us in chapters 8 and 9. First, there is the prerequisite of giving. The giver must already have given himself to God. The Savior desires the surrender of our lives before we give our money (v. 5). Then, there is a pattern of giving. We read of the example of the Macedonians (8:1-3), of the Father (9:15), and of the Son (8:9), who all gave sacrificially. Finally, Paul speaks of the pleasure of giving (9:7). Cheerful giving pleases God.

Taken from The Devotional Daily Bible