Many Christians have questions about giving to charity. Will my little contribution really make a difference? What happens with my money? Does God care if I give it – or which organization I should give to? Let’s dig into scripture to see what God has to say about charitable giving.

First, choosing to give part of your income to charity rewards you with treasures in Heaven. Think about that! No bank on this planet can yield those kinds of returns on an investment. Jesus warned, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matthew 6:19-20.

In this physical world, everything will eventually erode and be disposed as trash. The Bible challenges Christians to remember earth is not our real home. We are pilgrims on a journey who will not take anything with us when we die. However, when we give to God’s work on earth, we are storing treasures in the spiritual realm – in Heaven where treasures won’t rot or pass away.

Second, giving to God’s work on earth will benefit us in more ways than we can ever imagine. In other words, our need to give is greater than a charity’s need to receive. Giving is a blessing to our souls. We can experience firsthand God’s work. The sovereign Lord invites us – mere humans – to join Him in his Kingdom plans. When we learn of His great work we can rejoice that we were a part of it. How amazing!

Third, the Bible instructs us to give our first fruits to his work. That’s our part. If we obey, He does His part and provides all of our needs. Giving deepens our faith in God. He doesn’t ask us to give Him leftovers – but the first part. This increases our trust in him as we watch Him meet our needs. Then we can share with others how he provides, which brings Glory to God. Isn’t it inspiring and wonderful to listen to stories of God’s faithfulness?

Next, we should remember that we own nothing; it’s all borrowed. “The earth is the Lord’s and all its fullness. The world and those who dwell therein.” Psalm 24:1. You are accountable to God for what you do with the portion of money He has entrusted to you. ”Whoever can be trusted with very little, can also be trusted with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” (Luke 16:10-11)

LLEM is a responsible steward of the financial gifts we receive. We hope you will prayerfully consider partnering with us in 2020 – and beyond!