Giving and Receiving – II   

Friday, January 8

Giving and Receiving – II   

For if the willingness is present, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. 2 Corinthians 8:12

Studies reveal that the average Christian gives two to three percent of his income to church or charity. The Bible sets a higher standard which, when practiced, becomes a source of blessing for giver and receiver alike. Below you will find a summary of final two giving types:

Up next is the first fruit.

First Fruits – When people consider giving more to God and His work, their first thought is of the financial shortfall they will experience. But God issues a challenge to the hesitant: “Trust Me. See if you are not better off after giving than before.” When you give your first fruits offering, you are demonstrating unselfishness and gratefulness for what God has done for you; how far God has brought you, and where He is leading you.

According to Leviticus 23:9-14, no grain was to be harvested until first fruits had been giving-or, no income touched until your first portion was presented and offered. In giving first fruits; it is a measure of faith and is how you propose to give in your heart, some give a full month of income in the new year, some offer their first paycheck of the new year, and others the first of their crops.

Alms – One can think of this as a charitable gift or donation. Alms is synonymous with compassion. It’s called being a good human. Seeing a need and giving to the cause with no gain in return. In the Greek, the word “alms” can be translated to “pity and mercy.” Alms is when you give to the poor; expecting nothing in return, and allowing God to become the repayment plan.

It is my prayer that you have received from this summary what is asked of you as you continue to experience God as your Provider.