Those gifted by Christ with the motivational gift of giving know how to manage money well. They are very concerned with wisely managing the money to make the greatest impact to the most. They proficiently manage money, time, energy and creativity. This is quite different than what society would think; because, society would be concerned with the amount of giving. Whereas, the true spiritual gift of giving never is concerned with the amount as much as how that can be utilized to its fullest for the kingdom of God. Also, those with the gift of giving are very astute to differentiating true ministerial need from unwarranted use of the money.
Often, those with the gift of Giving; give anonymously; because their pleasure comes from act of giving, not the accolades of others. Because they gain their greatest pleasure from giving; often, they live very frugally to give more. Hoaxers beware, those with the gift of Giving can spot you from miles away. They are sometimes misunderstood by those who call them tight-fisted; which is the furthest from the truth. They make wise investments of their resources. When giving they do so with discernment, carefully choosing those in whom their investment will reap the most benefit.
They are motivated by God to give. Indeed, they hate high pressure tactics by others asking for their money; because, they need to evaluate the potential outcome first. Therefore, they are very thoughtful and prayerful about each gift; never, acting spontaneously. Furthermore, because they trust God to supply all their needs, they are both generous and the ones who can encourage others to give.
BIBLICAL EXAMPLE: Matthew
Of all the new testament scripture, there is more discussion regarding the wise usage of money in the gospel of Matthew. Also, he presents clearly the admonitions of Jesus against the Pharisees and the money changers regarding money and time management. “41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away Matthew 5.
GIFT OF GIVING: In the Spirit and in the Flesh
When working in the Spirit, those with the gift of giving are thrifty, resourceful, contented, punctual, cautious, tolerant and gratefulness. On the contrary, when they are walking in the flesh; they are extravagant, wasteful, covetous, tardy, rash, prejudiced, and ungrateful.
DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WITH THE GIFT OF GIVING?
If so, be careful not to be envious of their ease dealing with money, investing and finding the best bargain every time. Give them time to research any cause; before, they commit themselves or their money to them. Don’t be disparaged when they enthusiastically encourage you to give; reminding you that God will take care of you. And certainly, never expect them to be reaching out a helping hand to you; simply, because you squandered your money. If they do help; they will expect to hand you a tight budget to follow so as not to be in this position again.
WHAT IF YOU HAVE THE GIFT OF GIVING?
Be patient with those of us who don’t. Many of us love to give; but, lack the wisdom in giving. Personally, I am one of those. I have given away more than I have ever kept; however, I lack the discernment and wisdom to evaluate the best places to give. Also, I react spontaneously without patience. Every day I must pray that God guide my finances; despite me. I am getting better. But, if you who has the gift of giving meet me along the way; please, gently teach me how to be wiser in the management of my money.
Paul’s Instruction to those with the gift of giving: “let him do it with simplicity”. In some scripture, the greek word used here is translated to liberally; therefore, many have translated this as generously. However, another translation for the Greek word haplotes: with a sincere heart or singleness of motive. With all that I have learned about the gift of giving; I believe it is the second warning Paul gives. In your love of giving, never allow pride or selfish desires for praise to enter your heart. Always, maintain the sincerity of heart toward God; knowing your gift is to Him, for Him and by Him.
CONCLUDING Tweets
[bctt tweet=”Those God blessed with the gift of giving handle money wisely for greatest impact” username=”effiedarlene”]
[tweetthis]Let those who give, do so sincerely with singleness of heart to God[/tweetthis]
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR? OR ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link, if you have a prayer request email me by clicking here or comment here
OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE
A Broken and Contrite Heart, I published in 2010, answers the question, “What do I do when I keep falling into the same sin? Does God hate me because I keep failing to get this right? So, where do I begin again and find joy in my salvation; after, falling. If you want to know more about this book or the other books I have written: You can find a link at: Book Resources.
©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Photo used courtesy of: Nicola Zalewski who does own the copyright