An offering is that which is freely given by Christians to the work of the Lord, the local church, and/or ministries and missions.
An offering is a donation above and beyond 10% that is usually earmarked for missions, a building fund, the needy, or a parachurch ministry. But offerings are far more than simply the check we write on Sunday.
We are to offer much more to God than our monetary resources. Romans 12:1 exhorts us to offer our bodies “as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God” as part of our worship.
Romans 6:13 gives the reason for offering ourselves: because we are “those who have been brought from death to life,” and, as such, we are to “offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.”
God is not nearly as interested in our monetary offerings as He is in our submission and obedience. The truth is that He doesn’t need our resources to accomplish His plans and purposes. After all, He owns the cattle on a thousand hills (Psalm 50:10) and needs nothing from us.
What He desires, however, and what He values, is the heart that overflows with gratitude and thanksgiving to the God who saved us and who gives us all things, knowing our needs before we even ask (Matthew 6:8).
Such a heart gives generously, willingly, and cheerfully in response to the love and grace that abound in Christ (2 Corinthians 9:6–8).
The New Testament teaching on giving which may be helpful to you is found in 1 Corinthians 16:2: “On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income.” This passage brings out four points: we should give individually, regularly, methodically, and proportionately.
The matter of your giving is between you and God, and He always takes into account our circumstances. He knows when they are beyond our power to direct and control. The important thing is that we see giving as a privilege and not a burden. It should not be out of a sense of duty, but rather out of love for the Lord and a desire to see His kingdom advanced.
Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 2 Cor. 9:6–8 NLT
I pray that all who read this would discover the joy of generous giving and find the blessing of giving above and beyond what is required. I would recommend reading 2 Corinthians chapter 8 and 9, and thinking about your own personal offerings. The more you invest the greater the harvest for both you personally and for the kingdom of God!
In conclusion, offerings (generous giving) should be a part of the believer’s life. Give joyfully, give thankfully and excel in the grace of giving, but never feel pressured to give.
It’s never about the amount you give. Generous giving is about the joy in your heart to give! I pray that you would discover the joy of giving and trust God in this area of your life. If you do I guarantee it will help your faith grow and you will be glad you did!
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