Shared Blessings – Why Giving?

Have you ever wondered what really happens when we give in church or ministry? Many people quietly think, “Isn’t this just to pay the staff and pastor’s salary or cover church expenses? And if that’s the case, why should I keep giving?”


It’s easy to slip into that mindset. Sometimes even leaders unintentionally make it sound that way—focusing on bills, rent, or salaries. But when giving is reduced to paying expenses, it loses its joy. It feels like paying dues instead of participating in God’s mission.


The truth is, giving is never just about keeping an organization alive. It’s about moving God’s work forward. Pastors and missionaries are not the end-users of our gifts—they are simply vessels. When supported, they can devote themselves fully to teaching, discipling, evangelizing, and caring for God’s people. And when they do, the whole Body of Christ benefits—including us, the givers.


That’s why giving is not about paying back. We don’t give because we “owe” the church for all the prayers, sermons, or blessings we’ve received. Giving is not a debt to settle. It’s a privilege. It’s an invitation to be part of something eternal.


Paul understood this well. Writing to the Philippians, he thanked them for being the church to partner with him in giving and receiving. But he quickly added, “Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account” (Philippians 4:17). In other words, giving blesses the giver too—it bears fruit in their lives.


He also reminded the Corinthians that those who sow spiritual seed should also reap a material harvest (1 Corinthians 9:11,14). Supporting God’s servants is not charity—it’s biblical.


And when we look at the early church in Acts, we see a beautiful picture: “All the believers were one in heart and mind… they shared everything they had… and it was distributed to anyone who had need” (Acts 4:32–35). Their generosity created unity and strengthened their community.


Even more, Paul promises in 2 Corinthians 9 that giving enriches us in every way so we can be generous on every occasion. The result? Overflowing joy, thanksgiving, and glory to God.


So the next time you give, remember: it’s not about what you lose—it’s about what God is building through you. It’s not about paying back—it’s about moving forward together. In God’s design, giving is never one-sided. Everyone gives. Everyone gains. Everyone grows. And all the glory belongs to Him.


A Prayer for Today
Lord, thank You for inviting me to be part of Your work. Help me to give with joy, not from guilt or duty, but because I believe in what You are doing through Your Church. Remind me that my gift is not about what I lose, but about the fruit that grows for Your glory. Amen.


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