GIVING AS UNTO THE LORD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Colossians 3:23-24
Supporting Texts: 2 Corinthians 9:6-8; Proverbs 3:9-10; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 6:1-4; Acts 20:35
INTRODUCTION:
Giving is an essential part of Christian living. It is not only about money, but about the heart, the motive, and the object of our giving. Many give for recognition, obligation, or compulsion, but true kingdom giving is done as unto the Lord.
When we give with the mindset that God is the One receiving our offering, our attitude changes. Giving becomes worship, and it opens the door for divine favour, provision, and blessings. God sees beyond the gift—He sees the heart behind it.
In this message, we will explore the biblical pattern for giving that pleases God and unlocks His blessings in our lives.
1. GIVING IS A FORM OF WORSHIP
When we give to God, we honour Him and acknowledge His ownership of everything.
a) Giving Expresses Honour (Proverbs 3:9): Honouring the Lord with our substance is an act of reverence and love.
b) Giving Acknowledges God’s Ownership (Psalm 24:1): Everything we have belongs to God, and giving reflects that understanding.
c) Giving Demonstrates Trust (Malachi 3:10): Giving, especially the tithe, proves that we trust God to provide.
d) Giving Invites God's Overflow (Luke 6:38): When we give, we set ourselves up for divine blessings.
Biblical Example – Abel gave the best of his flock as an act of honour, and God respected his offering (Genesis 4:4).
2. GIVING REVEALS THE CONDITION OF THE HEART
The heart behind the gift matters more than the gift itself.
a) God Loves a Cheerful Giver (2 Corinthians 9:7): Giving should be done joyfully, not grudgingly or under pressure.
b) Giving Should Not Be for Show (Matthew 6:1-4): True giving is done in secret, not to impress others.
c) Giving Tests Our Faithfulness (Luke 16:10-11): How we handle resources reveals our trustworthiness before God
d) Giving Must Flow from Love (1 Corinthians 13:3): Without love, giving profits us nothing.
Biblical Example – The poor widow gave her two mites out of a pure heart, and Jesus commended her (Mark 12:41-44).
3. GIVING AS UNTO THE LORD ATTRACTS DIVINE REWARD
When we give with the right heart, God becomes our rewarder.
a) God Rewards Those Who Serve Him Faithfully (Hebrews 11:6): Giving is one way to serve the Lord.
b) Giving Produces Eternal Fruits (Philippians 4:17): Every act of giving is credited to our heavenly account.
c) Giving Brings Multiplication (2 Corinthians 9:10): God multiplies the seed sown and increases our resources.
d) Giving Reflects God’s Nature (John 3:16): God is a giver, and we mirror His nature when we give.
Biblical Example – Cornelius' giving and prayers came up as a memorial before God, and salvation came to his house (Acts 10:1-4).
4. GIVING SHOULD BE INTENTIONAL AND PURPOSEFUL
It should never be accidental, manipulative, or emotion-driven.
a) Give According to What You Have Purposed (2 Corinthians 9:7): Purposeful giving is thoughtful and planned.
b) Give Proportionally (Deuteronomy 16:17): Everyone should give in line with how God has blessed them.
c) Give Where God Leads You (Galatians 6:6): Support should go to ministries, the poor, and those who bless you spiritually.
d) Give With Eternity in Mind (Matthew 6:20): Store up treasures in heaven by giving to God’s work.
Biblical Example – The Macedonian church gave sacrificially and according to God’s will, despite their poverty (2 Corinthians 8:1-5).
5. GIVING IS A CONTINUAL LIFESTYLE
It should not be an occasional activity but a way of life.
a) Giving Should Be Regular (1 Corinthians 16:2): Paul instructed the believers to set aside offerings regularly.
b) Giving Reflects a Life of Sacrifice (Romans 12:1): Our entire life, including our resources, should be surrendered to God.
c) Giving Brings Joy (Acts 20:35): There is a deeper joy in giving than in receiving.
d) Giving Strengthens the Church (Acts 4:34-35): Early believers shared what they had, and there was no lack among them.
Biblical Example – The early Church constantly gave to meet the needs of others and to spread the Gospel (Acts 2:44-45).
CONCLUSION:
Giving as unto the Lord is more than a duty—it is an expression of worship, love, trust, and obedience. God sees every offering and every motive behind it. When we give with the right heart, our gifts become acceptable in His sight and open doors for uncommon blessings.
As you give today, let it be with the mindset that God is the One receiving your offering. Give cheerfully, generously, and faithfully, and watch how the Lord will honour your sacrifice.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, thank You for being the ultimate Giver.
2. Lord, help me to give with the right heart and motive.
3. Deliver me from selfishness and stinginess.
4. Teach me to honour You with my resources.
5. Let my giving open doors of favour and abundance.
6. Use my gifts to expand Your Kingdom.
7. Bless the works of my hands to always have to give.
8. Let my giving be a memorial before You.
9. Help me to be consistent and cheerful in giving.
10. Lord, raise me as a kingdom financier for Your glory.
