HOW MUCH? So, is it 10% or what?
I think it’s the “or what”
“Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” Mark 12:43-44
“Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
The above New Testament verses give us the concepts of giving all you have, as in the widow’s mite, as well as the other end of the spectrum of what you feel to give. So, let’s just break it down:
We can look at three ways to consider giving, Shoulda, Coulda, Wouda.
Shouda: This represents the Old Testament of 10%
Leviticus 27:30 “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD.
Coulda: This represents the sacrificial giving on top of tithe.
Wouda: A level that stretches faith further by responding to the Lord and committing resources that only He can supply.
At the end of the Day the Lord will honor our gifts given from our hearts and not out of “duty.”
WHERE to Give?
Just don’t think of this as your treasure, think of your time and talent as well.
Give to your local Church: “Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.” Galatians 6:6
Give to para-church missions that support the Great Commission: Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
Give to individuals in need: If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 1 John 3:17
7 Things to Evaluate Ministry Organizations as found in “Hiring Excellence,” by Pat McMillan
1. Are the leaders marked by Godly Characteristics?
2. Is the ministry active in God’s “hot spots?”
3. Is the ministry innovative?
4. Is the ministry growing and cooperative?
5. Is the ministry goal oriented?
6. Is the ministry accountable?
7. Is the ministry endorsed by a sound track record?
This is just a quick little note to help you think about your giving. Remember, it’s all His anyway so keep those hands and hearts open to His leading.