Lesson 3: Offerings are Generous Gifts to God.
Definition
The offering is a gift to God after our tithes.
Scripture Reading
2 Corinthians 9:6, “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
Main Points
- GENEROUS: To be generous means to “give freely in abundance.” Being generous is the opposite of being selfish and stingy. At the same time, the amount doesn’t determine the generosity but rather the heart. For example Jesus said a poor widow gave the most to God because she gave everything she had, Mark 12:44.
- INDIVIDUALIZED: Since each person’s financial situation is different God doesn’t require offerings to be a certain amount. Just like how the tithe is 10% of everyone’s total income, the offering is always supposed to be generous- freely given in abundance in regards to everyone’s individual circumstances.
- DON’T COMPARE: When giving your offerings don’t compare your best to someone else’s. For some people giving an extra $25 a month is generous and for others they can give $500 a month! It all depends on what God has given them and told them to give. However, each person’s gift should be his or her best!
Summary
Determine what is your best generous offering that you can give freely each month and give it with joy!
Application
- Be a faithful tither.
- Pray and seek God for what is considered generous in your life.
- Be a generous giver!
[infobox title=’Confession’]The offering is a gift to God “after” the tithe and is given in a “variety” of ways. God said it should be a “generous” “seed” given with a “cheerful” heart from personal “sacrifice.” Offerings will always bring “thanksgiving” to God because they go towards “charity” and ministry “supplies.” We give offerings in “obedience” to God’s Word, “sharing” with others our blessings with a “gracious” heart by “imitating” Jesus and revealing where our “treasure” really is.[/infobox]