Many of us have wrestled with the idea of giving—what it means, how much to give, or even the motives behind it.

We’ve all been there, worrying about our next tithe during a financially tight season or rolling our eyes as another church, charity, or organization asks for donations. But giving is about so much more than money. It’s about serving others, sharing what we have, and showing the generosity that reflects God’s heart.

The Bible is our roadmap on how to approach giving in a way that honors God, encourages others, and brings joy to our own lives. The word or idea of giving is mentioned 2,162 times in the Bible. It is God’s call for us to give.

1. Proverbs 3:9-10

“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce.”

Giving is about honoring God with your best, whether that’s your time, talents, or resources. This verse reminds us that when we prioritize God in our giving, we acknowledge Him as the ultimate provider. Generosity, when done with the right heart, becomes an act of worship that God uses.

2. Matthew 6:2-4

“When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the rewards they will ever get. 3But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. 4Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.”

Jesus highlights the importance of giving quietly, without seeking recognition or applause. True generosity isn’t about being noticed; it’s about meeting the needs of others with a humble heart. (Which is an extremely hard lesson to live out.)

3. 2 Corinthians 9:7-8

“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.’ And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.”

This verse reminds us that the heart behind our giving matters most. When we give willingly, it becomes a joyful act, not an obligation. Whether it’s financial help, volunteering time, or lending a listening ear, cheerful generosity creates space for God’s blessings to overflow.

4. Mark 12:41-44

“Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ‘I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.'”

This story of the widow’s offering shows us that generosity isn’t measured by the size of the gift but by the sacrifice behind it. Her willingness to give everything she had challenges us to trust God with what we offer.

5. Acts 20:35

“And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

This verse flips our perspective on giving. Instead of focusing on what we might lose, it invites us to consider the joy and fulfillment that come from helping others.

6. Matthew 6:19-21

“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”

Jesus challenges us to think about where our priorities lie. Generosity allows us to invest in things with eternal value—relationships, kindness, and spreading hope.

7. 1 Timothy 6:17-19

“Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.”

Paul encourages us to use what we’ve been given—whether wealth, talents, or influence—to make a positive impact. True riches aren’t found in material things but in living generously.

8. Luke 6:38

“Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”

Generosity has a ripple effect, and this verse reminds us of the abundance that follows a giving heart. It’s not a transaction but a principle: when we open our hands to give, we also make room to receive more from God.

9. Luke 10:30-37

“Jesus replied with a story: ‘A Jewish man was traveling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road. By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by.A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.’Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him.The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’ ‘Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.The man replied, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’ Then Jesus said, ‘Yes, now go and do the same.'”

The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches us that giving often looks like compassion in action. It’s not just about money—it’s about taking the time to care, heal, and provide for others in need. When we step in to serve, we reflect God’s love.

10. Psalm 112:4-5

“Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their business fairly.”

Generosity and fairness go hand in hand. This verse encourages us to extend kindness in all areas of life, including how we manage resources and treat others. A generous and just heart brings light to a world that desperately needs it.

Giving is a way to live out God’s love. As you reflect on these verses, consider how you might give in ways that honor God and bring joy to those around you.

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