GIVING TO GET

There are some in the Body of Christ who believe that if they give an offering to the work of the Lord that Our Gracious Prosperous Heavenly Father will give back to them a return harvest in proportion to the offering they gave. This thought is good and the principle of sowing and reaping can not be disputed.

Galatians 6:7-9
7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. KJV

Now with that understanding in a general form one could add to that thought a prayer or confession of faith claiming a blessing from God because they gave unto the Lord’s work or a person in need. Still no problem and we also believe that these actions are perfectly fine and good as a part of the operations of the Kingdom of God. The next step some people take is to give an offering, then pray for a specific amount to return to them by a specific date. Now those people have taken a spiritual principle (law) and have attempted to mingle it with the natural laws of this earth. Since money is natural and the return on any offering or alms goes through a spiritual process the natural specifics may not be revealed to you when you pray, thus making your prayer ineffective on the specifics.

Mark 4:26-27
26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;
27 And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. KJV

This spiritual process has several variables man does not know exactly how each seed will grow, nor does he know the exact time of the spiritual harvest. Jesus said, “He knows not how”. Trying to make giving and receiving an exact calculated science is stretching the truth a bit too far. Even the Apostle Paul said while we are here on earth we know in part according to 1 Corinthians 13:9-12

9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. KJV

Certainly God will give a return on your seed sown in due season. However the amount of the gift should not be based on your present or future needs. The amount of an offering or alms is a free will gift of love based upon your ability to give with the purpose of blessing the receiver. We should not give an offering to someone else based on what we think we need in the future. Do not think that giving to others is the only way for God to bless you financially. If you put your own personal needs above another in your heart you are not following God’s Heart you are giving to get and that my faith friend is wrong. Many have corrupted the simplicity of giving by adding a formula to the process. The process of God when it comes to giving is not flawed, nor is it complicated it simply states if you desire (if you are willing) to give to the things of God and you have extra to give, then give joyfully.

2 Corintians 9:7
You must each make up your own mind as to how much you should give. Don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully. NLT

This teaching already assumes that you read 2 Corinthians 8:12-15 which states we should only give from our abundance. Remember the Apostle Paul had this complete letter sent to the Corinthian Church at one time. The Corinthians received this teaching in its context, therefore we should keep this teaching in its context also.-Refer to 2 Corinthians chapters 8 and 9 for complete teaching in context.

12 For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.

13 Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. 14 At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality, 15 as it is written: "He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little." NIV

These verses point out three major keys to the simplicity of giving God’s Way:

  1. Be willing to give (have a Godly attitude about sharing your resources)
  2. Have some extra money to give (if you have extra whatever the amount of extra you have, no matter how small) will be accepted by God. The money you are planing to give should be from your abundance (to keep you from being under financial pressure)
  3. The gift you present to God with the right heart is accepted (if your heart has the wrong motive the gift is not acceptable to God)

Simply put those who have a lot should give more natural money than those who own very little. This will keep everyone in proper balance to have their own needs met first because no one should take money from their basic needs to supply the needs of another. No matter what the amount if your heart is right with God all gifts are equally accepted. Equality is not burdensome but rather liberating if we understand the financial principles of giving. If you can not satisfy the first two key points with a joyful heart than please don’t give at this time. I can almost guarantee that you will have other opportunities to give in the future toward some of the things of God. The goal for you would be to ask for God’s Help in using your resources wisely so that you do have extra. No person on the face of the earth should have to live his or her whole life without ever experiencing abundance. If that is your plight we pray to God that you receive extra Grace to comfort you during this present hardship (or distress).

There has been a portion of believers that have felt in their heart that they were instructed to give a certain amount to a ministry or minister and God would supply their future need before the due date. That my friend is not a typical free will offering but rather obedience to your heart. That is an entirely different matter, that is a personal experience for you and your household which is based upon our own personal revelation. Personal revelations may be used as testimonies but they should not be taught as doctrine. The result of whether or not that was God, or yourself, or something else will be proven either on the due date or before the due date. Some have proven this type of giving to be a part of God’s Will for their life while others have proven that it was not of God because they received nothing on or before the due date. If we have scripture guidance to do this for our needs then it would definitely be God’s Will for all believers, not just a select few. The problem is the scriptures do not teach us to pray to God for money, it teaches us to work and manage our money properly. We know that there are special manifestations of this type of financial harvest (blessing) occurring in the Body of Christ today. However, one should not expect that giving replaces working and sowing is better than saving. All of these have their place in the Kingdom of God but saving is God’s ordained principle for supplying future needs. While working is God’s ordained principle for supplying current needs. Why do we hear so many ministers teaching this doctrine? That is because they are working for the Lord and they are receiving a good wage for their labor. We know there are many people in the Body of Christ who don’t make that connection but the fact that they are working for the Lord is truth. In ministry people have a scriptural foundation for giving to those who minister God’s Word, but make no mistake about it this blessing is ordained for Minister’s of God.

1 Corinthians 9:13-15
13 Don't you know that those who work in the Temple get their meals from the food brought to the Temple as offerings? And those who serve at the altar get a share of the sacrificial offerings. 14 In the same way, the Lord gave orders that those who preach the Good News should be supported by those who benefit from it. NLT

And 1 Timothy 5:17
Elders who do their work well should be paid well, especially those who work hard at both preaching and teaching. NLT

These scriptures and more give men upon the earth a clear conscience for giving money to a minister. However, one must realize that they are working for God and without the help of men they would receive nothing. Receiving nothing for the fruit of your labor would violate God’s Principle of each workman being worthy of a reward.

1 Timothy 5:18
For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. KJV

Do to God’s blessing upon their labors and fruit of their mouth they receive financial benefits from men in the form of tithes, offerings and alms. We can receive financial blessings from people who know nothing about us too, but this would be like receiving a financial miracle. The difference is ministers are supposed to live from gifts by men. Where as the laity is supposed to live by the works of their hands. Think about the blessing for Aaron and the Levites was specifically for them, not all the Children of Israel.

Numbers 18:20-21

20 And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.

21 And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation. KJV

It is no surprise when ministers receive a financial gift from men, the surprise comes when people give money to a person in the laity for no apparent reason. Angela and I both know these type of special blessing do happen here and there but these type of financial provisions should not be taught as a way of life to replace hard work and financial discipline. Miracles are God’s quick fix to major problems but miracles are not what we are encouraged to live by in the Holy Bible. Generally, what we see in the Holy Word of God is the saints working faithfully and the Lord providing for them faithfully due to their faithful service unto Him. If ministers teach people to believe God for money apart from labor and being a good steward that is their personal mistake do not make it your financial stumbling block. We must be wise enough to study the scriptures for ourselves.

Acts 17:11-12
11 Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. 12 Many of the Jews believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men. NIV

Praying and giving to obtain financial prosperity is different from laboring and saving to establish financial prosperity. Angela and I strongly encourage the latter. The Word of God encourages a good strong work ethic that will eventually lead to wealth through good budgeting. We know this is proven by the world we live in because, “Who respects a person who is not a hard worker?” We can see that even if you are not rich but have good work habits you are respected by your fellowman. This is because labor is right and the importance of working to earn a wage it can not be under estimated.

Proverbs 13:11
Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. KJV

Ecclesiastes 2:24
There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God. KJV

Since biblical financial prosperity will come through other people it will usually take a process. This means you should understand exactly how to love and help people to partake of their financial resources (assets, money, currency, etc…) To believe that people should give you money simply because you have a need and some faith is a perversion of truth. Your inner man can not generate physical financial abundance by itself, nor should it. We all need one another and Our Heavenly Father encourages interaction between people, thus, the principle of exchange is God’s Law.

Proverbs 11:24-26
24 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.
25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
26 He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it. KJV

Notice some key words of exchange like liberality, scattering, watering, and selling. These words incur God’s blessing whereas selfish withholding does not. Now let us look at Matthew 25:14-18 for additional encouragement to exchange our services or our benefits (assets, ideals, money, etc…) with others:

14 "Again, the Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a trip. He called together his servants and gave them money to invest for him while he was gone. 15 He gave five bags of gold to one, two bags of gold to another, and one bag of gold to the last — dividing it in proportion to their abilities — and then left on his trip. 16 The servant who received the five bags of gold began immediately to invest the money and soon doubled it. 17 The servant with two bags of gold also went right to work and doubled the money. 18 But the servant who received the one bag of gold dug a hole in the ground and hid the master's money for safekeeping. NLT

Notice that the servants who exchanged (traded, invested) their money into the good things of God received a return on their actions. They did not sit at home and do nothing they worked and God blessed the labor of their hands. However, one chose to do nothing but at least the servant did not squander His Lord’s money. Let us examine the Lord’s response to their stewardship in Matthew 25:19-29

19 "After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to give an account of how they had used his money. 20 The servant to whom he had entrusted the five bags of gold said, 'Sir, you gave me five bags of gold to invest, and I have doubled the amount.' 21 The master was full of praise. 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!'

22 "Next came the servant who had received the two bags of gold, with the report, 'Sir, you gave me two bags of gold to invest, and I have doubled the amount.' 23 The master said, 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!'

24 "Then the servant with the one bag of gold came and said, 'Sir, I know you are a hard man, harvesting crops you didn't plant and gathering crops you didn't cultivate. 25 I was afraid I would lose your money, so I hid it in the earth and here it is.'

26 "But the master replied, 'You wicked and lazy servant! You think I'm a hard man, do you, harvesting crops I didn't plant and gathering crops I didn't cultivate? 27 Well, you should at least have put my money into the bank so I could have some interest. 28 Take the money from this servant and give it to the one with the ten bags of gold. 29 To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who are unfaithful, even what little they have will be taken away. NLT

Now don’t try to over spiritualize everything you read in the Holy Word of God. This practical lesson is teaching us to work and purpose to do better in our work to the level of increase. Notice that the Lord commended the two servants that labored and He chastised the lazy servant for not working. Yes, the Lord even went so far as to say at least if you would have invested the money in the bank the money would of exchanged to help someone else but instead you purposed to help no one. This action was strongly condemned by God and this was given to us as an example. We should desire to work and we should look to increase our wage through investing into the good things of God. Additional knowledge, additional skills, additional training, saving, helping others, building items that help humanity, providing for your spouse, providing for your children, giving to a minister who feeds us God’s Word, and many other like things are the things of God whether you realize it or not. The problem comes when people just blatantly think that people should give them money because they have a need and some faith. If the person in need has given nothing to the gracious giver where is the fair exchange in that type of arrangement? Is it not right for one person to labor and another person (totally unrelated) eat the fruit of that labor? Giving to someone who has given you nothing is classified as an act of charity in God’s Word for those who are poor but it is not how a healthy Believer should live. Purposing to live off the charity of another is not right (nor just) according to God’s Word.

Isaiah 65:21-24
21 And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them.
22 They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.
23 They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them.
24 And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. KJV

We have already concluded that one should not give an offering to God’s Kingdom for the sole purpose of meeting their future need but there is still a large amount of Christians that believe the only way for them to obtain wealth is through giving. This is because the Men and Women of God who preach that type of message are usually rich and because the minister represents God many believe their words to be true. They think that if they are rich through giving I to can be rich like them through my giving. The thought is problematic because those who obtained riches in the ministry obtained them through God’s Grace. If you take God out of the picture they would have nothing. The Lord did not bless them because they were great givers but for sure the Lord gave them a gift and their gifting brought them riches.

Proverbs 18:16
A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. KJV

This word "great" means both people of importance and a large magnitude of people. If you speak to a large number of people you have that much more influence to receive something from them. The larger your influence the greater your potential to obtain additional income. This gift is from God it is not to be glorified as man’s wisdom. We know giving has its place but the works (good deeds) of men should never replace the significance of God’s unmerited Grace. Praise be to God the Father and His Holy Son, Jesus Christ for all the wonderful things they have done for us.

2 Corinthians 10:17-18
17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
18 For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth. KJV

This article teaches that those individuals who believe they must give large amounts of money to God today in order for them to be rich tomorrow are misinformed. This thinking is erroneous and develops a skewed image of God; for that reason alone this thought about giving to be rich must be condemned. The Lord does not want any of His Precious Loving Children building a doctrine that they are rich by their good deeds instead of God’s Grace. We stated earlier that ministers are specially blessed because they work for God. The minister is a holy partaker of God’s unmerited grace in the building of God’s Tabernacle because the works of man’s hands (unspiritual works) produce nothing. A true minister will rely on the Hand of God doing His work through them. The Word of God and Spirit of God do the works we just show people how to access them (His Grace and His Power). The ministers who are anointed by God thrive to have God’s Power working in their ministry because they understand without His Spirit upon their life they are nothing, thus they can do nothing of any spiritual significance. Therefore the Servant of God operates specifically by God’s grace, they do not operate on the foundation of their own good works.

Romans 11:6
And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. KJV

Since we have a clearer understanding of how financial blessings (benefits) come to the minister of God let us now examine the laity. As children of God we have a special blessing upon the works of our hands. Many people are blessed to have jobs and the knowledge of how to perform those jobs successfully. We all know that many faithful believers carry an additional dimension of help because the Greater One lives inside of us. So if we have the physical body to work hard (faithfully) and we have the mind of Christ to help us think properly without over reacting to challenging circumstances, “Why are so many Christians in financial difficulty?” This is because we have not established God principles of handling money in our heart. The Lord gave us temperance but how many of His Saints use this on a daily basis in their financial spending. Therefore when it comes to handling your finances you need to take some foresight into the future. This changes the situation from a spiritual quest to get money into a disciplined decision based upon biblical principles of budgeting to grow the money you have received from others. This would include a check you receive from an employer, or checks you receive from customer or an inheritance you receive from a relative. When it comes to financial decisions (including your giving) we recommend not making the decision based solely (only) on all the known information at hand. Believers should not be rash in the handling of their money but rather disciplined. We have seen quite often that many people are making decisions today that will impact their tomorrows without any practical regard about the tomorrow the decision today will effect. It is good to use the information you know today along with some information you know about the future. This principle is especially true when it comes to the issue of giving money today for a present or future need. Although we have discussed this subject before now we will look at it again in a bit more detail and possibly from some different angles (aspects) to remove all doubt. As we stated earlier there are special cases where the Lord may of led certain individuals to sow a seed for an immediate harvest but one would be hard pressed to establish that doctrine according to the scriptures found in the New Testament (or the Old Testament for that matter). God’s established principles of obtaining prosperity on an individual basis is through working and saving a portion of the money gathered to provide for your future needs.

Proverbs 13:11
Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. KJV

And Proverbs 13:11 in the New Living Translation
Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows. NLT

And Ephesians 4:28
Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. KJV

Consider both physically and financially all your resources you have on hand but also look out into the near future (or distance future) concerning things that you know are going to happen (up coming needs of your children or spouse, increase in gas prices, health care, etc…). You must also consider things that you desire (extra travel, vacations, electronic updates, etc…) to factor into your decision and choose the solution that yields the most fruit. We are not talking about the most financial fruit for giving into the ministry I am talking about what allows you to yield the most fruit for living the abundant life. The major reason the Lord didn’t mention financial giving into the ministry as a commandment in the Holy Bible is because He does not desire for any of His Children to feel that they should be giving money into the ministry to be complete in Christ Jesus. There is absolutely no sin in not giving into the ministry. This has to be explained because there are too many Saints who have very little and they think the only way for them to get rich is to increase their offerings. This is not what the Holy Bible teaches and if that were the case to get to Heaven would cost you a large payment. On the contrary we (Angela and I) firmly believe that the Precious Blood of Jesus was, is and forever shall be the greatest price ever paid for your personal wealth. Your wealth should not be based upon your possessions on the earth your wealth is based upon the Heavenly Divine price paid for you. Since the Blood of Jesus is priceless that makes you a priceless possession of God. So why a child of God would think that money is their wealth as opposed to Jesus being their wealth is puzzling. You will not see the full benefit of that wealth while you are here on the earth but it will be fully consummated in Heaven and throughout eternity with God. The only time not giving into the ministry is a sin is when you have abundance to give and your heart is directing you to give and then you choose not to.

Luke 18:18-25
18 And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?
19 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God.
20 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother.
21 And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up.
22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.
23 And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich.
24 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
25 For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. KJV

Notice that this young ruler was rich by practicing the Lord’s Commands and He had money to give. He was not rich by working under another but rather ruling over others. The thought here is that those who are on top (The Boss, The Supervisor, The Manager) typically make more money than those who work for them. Yet this individual was lacking treasure in heaven because he had not been investing according to God’s System which is using your extra to meet another person’s lack. This is not giving money to get more money, but rather this is having sufficient money to give. This believer in God had abundance to give to the poor but lacked the obedience to God’s Word to be completely committed to God. This is why you can not measure a person’s faith in God by the things which they possess. Our Gracious Loving Father has favored the poor of the earth with the ability to receive the Gospel of God to increase their faith.

James 2:5
Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? KJV

This verse in James confirms the fact that faith should never be measured by your amount of financial success. According to the Holy Word of God you can be rich in faith and at the exact same time be poor financially. This, of course, is not God’s Perfect Will but it is a condition that exists in the earth primarily because this earth is subject to the worlds system of corrupt thinking. Therefore you could be trusting in God as your Savior and not have financial abundance, like Lazarus in Luke 16:19-23

19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. KJV

Notice that the beggar Lazarus died a poor man, but was a child of Abraham. Therefore one could reasonably conclude that wealth is no mark of how spiritual a person is, because if someone looked at the rich man’s possession they could believe that God really blessed the rich man due to the favor of God. This poisonous thinking would also lead you to believe that Lazarus is not favored of God, because he was a poor beggar. Both assumptions are wrong and show clearly why you don’t use financial prosperity as a gauge of God’s Salvation and favor. Not in times past, not now at this present time, and not ever in the future. In verse 22 we can clearly see that Lazarus was saved and favored of God, where as the rich man was not saved and his works were not favored by God. Trying to measure God’s spiritual desire for you as a Christian by the things you possess is a perversion of truth. The Lord specifically had people put Lazarus (who lacked provision due to illness) in the presence of a source of money, the rich man. However the rich man refused to show compassion to the hurting and poor believer. Notice that the favor of God is constant and sure but having favor with people so that they purpose (are willing) to use their resources to do you good is a decision of each man, not God. The rich man didn’t know his life was tied to Lazarus. Even though the people who brought Lazarus to that spot were following God’s Will and Lazarus himself allowing it was following God’s Plan, yet God’s Provisional Will did not come to fruition because the rich man did not choose to obey God’s Word. The dogs in verse 21 showed more compassion than the rich man which is why he found himself in hell according to verse 23. We observe this same fate in Luke 12:15-21

15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
16 And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:
17 And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?
18 And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.
19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.
20 But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?
21 So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. KJV

This is another example of a rich man operating outside the perfect will of God. Having abundance but not thinking about sharing his abundance with those who are in need. The Lord called him a fool, and those like him, who lay up treasures for themselves and refuse to help those who are less fortunate. The rich should also be concerned about giving toward the things of God, like establishing God’s Covenant in this earth through the preaching and teaching and demonstration of the Gospel of God. Principle – Never have idle money (abundance specifically) not attached to a specific godly vision (purpose), if you do it will be considered treasure by God. Keep in mind that all the various purposes mentioned in the Holy Bible are a part of God’s complete vision for your life (providing for your family, saving for retirement, saving for college, paying off your home, taking good care of your assets, giving to good works, etc…..).

Proverbs 29:18
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. KJV

If the believer does not plan (have a vision) for doing all those things just named (plus more) he or she is in danger of never reaching some godly goals because of a lack of planning (vision). All those items just mentioned are a part of our everyday life, let us not neglect them because of a lack of foresight. Remember we stated that treasure is idle money of extra abundance with no godly purpose it is not the money you are saving for a future need. Generally treasure is consider excessive wealth, treasure is not considered everyday money used to provide for your life. The following verses in Matthew 6:19-21 simply encourages us to give a portion of our prosperity the help build the Kingdom of God rather than save it up to make our own name look great.

19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. KJV

Notice that giving for the wealthy is required because the reason they are given wealth is to be a blessing to the poor. The Lord established the earth with checks and balances, in His infinite wisdom He knew that there would be times when needs would arise in the lives of certain people and they would not have enough to pay for that need. God's balance for those needs is to have people in key positions with surplus who can help with those needs. This is why Angela and I believe the church should be wealthy to help the less fortunate but the minister (priest or pastor) should live modestly. When a wealthy person obeys God’s Word by giving a portion of the abundance to the less fortunate it does make them God’s favored. This simply means that God has gifted them with the ability to obtain wealth and graced them in the art of making money. Having wealth and giving of your wealth does not make the rich man spiritual for obeying God’s Word, it allows them to sleep with a clear conscience. Like we stated before, giving to the poor and needy is necessary (required) if you are a person of great means. Those who are wealthy and refuse to give of their wealth are operating outside of God’s Perfect Will. If they continue to disobey God’s Word in this area of their life they will be judged unfaithful concerning the stewardship of God’s resources. Therefore if you are rich give liberally but if you are not rich do not think yourself any less of a person if don’t have the money to give at this particular time in your life. Giving money does not make you spiritual, so how can not giving money make you unspiritual. God is a Spirit and your Heavenly Father made you a spirit in His Image and Likeness. Since that is an established fact know with all certainty that you are spiritual in Christ Jesus you only need to yield to His Spiritual graces to develop your spiritual fruit. The giving of God’s Love on a regular basis is exactly what will develop your spiritual character as noticed with Peter and John in Acts 3:3-7

3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.
4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us.
5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.
6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.
7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ancle bones received strength. KJV

Peter and John may not of had abundance but they still without question had the power of God working in their lives. In the verses below you will notice that the ravens are not tithing, giving offerings, nor giving to poor people but the Lord still takes care of the ravens and provides them food. This is simply because God created them and He loves them just as they are, the Lord does not love them for what they can do.

Luke 12:22-24
22 And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
23 The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.
24 Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls? KJV

Actions demonstrated by men is not impressive to God, but rather those hearts of men seeking to honor His Word through His Love. When we put these two things above all else consistently, that person has God’s attention and special interest. Tithing and giving a portion of your abundance is more than enough to establish God’s Covenant in this earth. Tithing on your increase and giving from your abundance always was, now is and shall always be more than enough to establish God Covenant on this earth. The only reason it seems like there is not enough money to do all the things a church desires is because the majority of God’s Saints don’t tithe. The gospel was never meant to point people in the direction of giving to the ministry to obtain personal riches and wealth. The Holy Bible points toward Jesus and Jesus made The Way for us to get to our Heavenly Father and appreciate His Great Love for us. The Word of God shows us the road to get to Heaven and exactly how to manifest the King of Heaven upon the earth. The Holy Bible is a spiritual book that discourages carnal thinking, but when people become carnal minded they shape the Holy Word of God into their own image and likeness. The fruit that our Heavenly Father desires for us to bear is love and peace and joy through an orderly lifestyle including diligence in business, which will bring financial freedom for you and your family. When it comes to the personal finances for a young father with a young family the less risk the better. If you are at a stage in your life where you have children depending upon your income with a wife consider strongly their provision. If you do not provide for your family because you choose to give their provision away (yes, even to the church) you are not a man of faith, you are probably a person of presumption.

1 Timothy 5:8
But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. NKJV

Many parents have taken financial risks and come up short which caused the whole family to do without. Therefore we recommend for a leader to play it safe rather than to be sorry later when it comes to giving your money to others without restraint. For example if you know you have to pay some bills or a large bill is due at the end of the month don’t put the amount of the bill in the offering because you believe God will give you more before the bill’s due date. Doing so is a risk because even though God’s Word promises you a return on your giving it does not say when you will receive this return. Your return on that gift could be several years later when you don’t even need it. Play it safe pay the bill with what you presently have and keep believing God to show you how you can save more and earn more on your job. If you receive some unexpected extra money then save some, pay down some debt, and give some to the work of God because there is no risk associated with that type of giving. One can also purpose (plan) to give a portion of their increase (their paycheck) to offerings as they are able, this does not bring high risk either. When God’s Children base their decision on principles (Biblical Principles and in some cases practical principles) instead of individual practices they have built a foundation and fortress that the enemy can’t destroy. Keeping themselves out of harms way.

Luke 6:47-49
47 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
49 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great. KJV

So do your homework on every major decision concerning what you should do based on scriptural principles, what can you afford to do right now based on sound financial principles and what will be the one year effects (consequences) of this decision concerning your peace, your family, your physical body (health), your job, your finances, etc.. then make a well informed decision based on a good amount of gathered knowledge mixed with some future estimations.

Luke 14:28-32
28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?
29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,
30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.
31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?
32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. KJV

These are some of the ingredients we need to operate in God’s wisdom. In using these principles you shall do wisely in life before God and your fellowman. It is evident that some good deeds will not be recompensed until we get to heaven, so don’t make the mistake of thinking whatever I give today will come back to me in a couple of months.

Luke 14:12-14
12 Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.
13 But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:
14 And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just. KJV

Therefore to count a financial blessing from an offering just given as obtainable on a certain day on this earth because you faithfully gave to the less fortunate would be like counting your chickens before they hatch. This would be foolish because God didn’t promise you according to His word a return the very next day or the very next month and for that matter even the very next year. He simply promised you a return one day. The Holy Bible does say that the Kingdom of God works like a seed thrown into the ground. Implying that a process will be fulfilled before you see a return (harvest) on your good deeds done (like your giving).

Mark 4:26-32
26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;
27 And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.
28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.
29 But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.
30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?
31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:
32 But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it. KJV

Notice that verse 27 states he knows not how, in other words we don’t know exactly how this spiritual process is going to work in our natural circumstance. If you don’t know how it works naturally because it is a spiritual process, then it is evident that you also don’t know exactly when it shall happen. Let us keep the gospel of God simple, like it is stated in Romans 12:8

Romans 12:6-8
6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. KJV

This simply means that we give because we want to and we have some extra money (or food, or substance, an asset, etc….) and we notice a need that we can help with in love. As Christians, we will (purpose in heart) to help the poor as helping a fellow brother or sister in Christ knowing that the Lord would do the same for us if He was walking the earth today in His Physical Body, which is the Church. It is a fact that one day we will reap a harvest on the good deeds performed in this earth, but we know not exactly when. That one day could be within one hour of our natural time or a whole physical lifetime. Since we can not be sure of the exact natural time of each return every time we give we should not base our giving on our needs. This is communicated to us in 2 Corinthians 9:7

So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. NKJV

Giving because we need money will cause some to worry (be anxious, careful) about the return instead of giving by the sincere love of God shown through meeting the needs of another in the Body of Christ. We must keep our motives pure and clear, we give because we desire to give and we have enough extra money to give, not of necessity, but rather of love. This is God’s process and this is right, this allows God’s Grace to flow easily through your deeds bringing your heart joy and peace. Whenever we do things outside of God’s Way it is very possible that we are establishing a burden (a work of the flesh) bringing frustration and confusion. Keeping our giving simple and praying for the peace and the well being of another is God’s Way for all His Beloved Children. Notice the simplicity of giving according to the following verses, this privilege should not be under compulsion or self seeking but rather love for our fellowman.

Luke 6:35-38
35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.
36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. KJV

Angela and I personally believe that the measure is not solely the amount of money but rather the measure of God’s Love you extend to others. If God’s love and mercy is given to others from you it shall surely be given back unto you from others and God. This may include money but let us not limit this revelation to money alone. Notice in 2 Corinthians 9:8-12 some of the other benefits of giving in love.

8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
9(As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.
10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
12 For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; KJV

These two witnesses state that when we give to others with a sincere (loving and honest) heart we will be blessed by God and man for those acts of kindness. However since these acts of kindness are done in the Kingdom of God they do not promises us a set time table for our return. Therefore it is wise to stay within the confines of the Holy Scriptures without adding to them or taking anything away from them. In the following few verses we see the Lord promising us a return in this life, but notice again it didn’t tell us exactly when.

Mark 10:29-30
29 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,
30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. KJV

And Luke 18:29-30
29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake,
30 Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting. KJV

These verses mention various blessings coming back to us for sacrifices we have made for the sake of Gospel and good deeds done in His Name but they do not mention money specifically. Since the scripture does leave some room for interpretation we (Angela and I) do believe that many givers will receive a return on their giving in this life and in the world to come eternal life, but that does not give us the right to claim a return made payable in one month, or two years. This is why we state when it comes to your financial decisions stay in the present with some future considerations of restraint to accomplish God’s Perfect Will one day at a time. If you have extra (abundance) to give and you have a heart of love for the individual or the purpose in the Kingdom of God then give with all simplicity and clarity of thought. We have seen by the Holy Word of God that the Lord will continue to favor you with His Grace when you operate according to His Word. Know that now faith is and the present is now, not some distant future, so keep your thoughts and hearts settled in the blessing of God you have right now because now is the best time to use your faith in Jesus Name. Keep your heart and mind on the Presence of God’s Love first. Then ask yourself the question, “Do I have abundance right now?” If you are willing to give in an atmosphere of love and joy know with all confidence that even a small gift is still accepted before God in Jesus Name. After that give with the simplicity of giving because God’s Joy and Peace will confirm your decision because you are giving God’s Way. Amen!

Just remember we are workers together with God, we are not working for God to receive a reward because we who believe on Jesus have received our Salvation in Christ. Today is our day of Salvation including our financial provision in Christ. This is not a blessing far off but rather realized today, even right now!

2 Corinthians 6:1-2
1 Marks of the Ministry

We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For He says:

"In an acceptable time I have heard you,
And in the day of salvation I have helped you."

Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. NKJV

So know that we don’t need to give our meager financial offering to receive the riches of Heaven, we already have the wealth of God given to us in the person of Jesus Christ. So put your confidence in God’s Grace and expect the favor and blessings of God upon your life simply because you obey God’s Word and operate in His Love each day.

Matthew 6:30-34
30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?

31 "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. NKJV

So please my fellow Believer don’t give into the Kingdom of God to get more money, just know that when you give receiving from God is all part of the package. Obeying God’s Commandments in a life of faith, love and peace in the knowledge of being a good steward is the road to prosperity in the Mighty Name of Jesus.

Isaiah 1:19
If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: KJV

And Job 36:10-11 10 He openeth also their ear to discipline, and commandeth that they return from iniquity.
11 If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures. KJV

In His Love, Eric & Angela Foster

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