The Bible teaches a different economy than the world does. The world teaches that we are blessed when we receive. The Bible teaches that it is more blessed to give. When you look at your finances with a biblical perspective you’ll start to see that everything you have is given to you for the edification of the Kingdom. When you use your assets to bless others through generous giving, you’re being a good steward of all God has given you. When you obey God when He tells you to give, you will find that what you do makes a lasting impression for the Kingdom. This post outlines why this biblical perspective on generosity can make a difference for our world.

"A Biblical View of Wealth" by Hank Hanegraaff

I am persuaded that the Bible teaches a form of Christian capitalism: responsibility associated with wealth. It does not promote the possession of money for the sake of money, but instead encourages us to use money for the sake of the kingdom.

A Biblical view of wealth involves having an eternal perspective. It is crucial that we understand Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the LORD’s and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” God is the landlord; we are just tenants. We didn’t arrive with our riches and we won’t take them with us; they all belong to God. So it’s important for us to live with eternity in mind and live our life here below as responsible stewards. Whether we have a little or a lot, God at the judgment will richly reward us.

The Bible chronicles the very prayer of David who considered it a privilege to give to the work of the Lord. He said, “But who am I and who are my people that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand…And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you.” (I Chron. 29:14, 17)

There’s no telling what we can accomplish in our generation, if we, too, can catch the joy of contagious giving. Not only would we be empowered to spread the gospel around the globe but we might also leave an indelible mark on the 21st century. We can make a difference. 

Read:
2 Corinthians 9:10

Pray:
God, would You help me learn to see and live by the economy of the Kingdom rather than the economy of the world? I would much rather be blessed in my giving, obeying You, and making a difference in the world with a generous heart.

Reflect:
Which economy am I relying on; the world’s economy, or Kingdom economy?

Respond:
Test the Lord and see how He will bless you when you use your time and assets to bless others through generosity.

Our ultimate purpose as Christians is to work for the Kingdom of God. Generosity is one of the ways we share God’s love with others, so when God tells us to give, we must listen and be generous with our time or resources. If you keep thinking about the way the Kingdom works over the way the world works, you’ll start to see more opportunities for generosity. The next post will help you understand different mindsets about giving and generosity and challenge you to think bigger.