LET’S REVIEW THE PLAN (Part 7) – GIVING

Jeremiah 29:11 serves as the cornerstone for the series “Let’s Review The Plan,” where the emphasis is on understanding God’s plan for our prosperity, hope, and future.This week, the focus is on a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of God’s plan: GIVING

THE ROLE OF GIVING

Giving is not a mere human construct but a vital part of God’s plan for our lives. It is essential for:

Prosperity and Blessing: As seen in Malachi 3:10, where God promises to “throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing.”

Honoring God: With our wealth as instructed in Proverbs 3:9-10.

Historical Precedence: Tithing existed before the Mosaic Law, evidenced by Abraham and Jacob.

BIBLICAL INSTRUCTIONS ON GIVING

GIVE OBEDIENTLY: As commanded in Leviticus 27 and Deuteronomy 14:22, where a tenth of all produce is set aside for the Lord.

GIVE WILLINGLY: As demonstrated in Exodus 35 and 2 Chronicles 31, where people gave freely for the work of the Lord.

GIVE CHEERFULLY: Highlighted in 2 Corinthians 9:7, emphasizing that God loves a cheerful giver.

GIVE HUMBLY: As Jesus instructs in Matthew 6:1-4, giving should be done in secret, not for public acclaim.

GIVE GENEROUSLY: 2 Corinthians 9:6 and Proverbs 11:25 stress the blessings of generous giving.

GIVE EXPECTANLY: Trusting that God will bless us as promised in Luke 6:38 and Malachi 3:10.

GIVE SACRIFICIALLY: As shown in Mark 12:41-44, where the widow’s offering was honored by Jesus.

THE PURPOSE OF GIVING Giving serves several purposes in God’s kingdom:

Supporting the Local Church: Ensuring the functioning and ministry of the church community.

Spreading the Gospel: Through missions and outreach efforts.

Helping Those in Need: A responsibility often overlooked but emphasized in the New Testament.

The sermon calls for a heart aligned with God’s plan, especially in the area of giving. It encourages believers to reflect on their giving practices and align them with biblical teachings. The focus is not on the amount but the heart and willingness behind the act. As believers, we are invited to engage in giving that is obedient, willing, cheerful, humble, generous, expectant, and sometimes sacrificial, thereby fulfilling God’s plan for our lives.