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July 30, 2009
Guest Post: The Silent Middle - Give from the heart, not a mathematical formula
A common misconception about giving is that it is a numbers game - it's all about the amount you give compared to your income or how much tax deduction you can give or the number of children you sponsor or the number of charities you support.
In all reality, giving in its purest form is not about the numbers, it's about the heart. What is your motivation to give? Do you donate money out of obligation or because the "law" dictates a certain percentage? Is your giving out of guilt because others have less than you do? Do you give expecting God to give back to you in return? Does giving generously build up your pride because you long to be important to others or you want to be known as a generous person merely for reputation's sake?
Check your motives. Check your heart when giving. Follow the example of Psalm 26 when the author ask God, "Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind." Giving that honors God is done with a heart of gratitude, not guilt. Giving with pure motives doesn't expect anything back, including glory, fame, or financial gain.
And because giving isn't just about numbers, that also means that it isn't just a practice for those who are "wealthy." People with incomes at any level can honor God with their giving. Giving in its purest form isn't about you or your glory - it's about Him. So honor Him today and share with others the blessings He has shared with you.
Jenny Wingard is passionate about God, local church ministry, and giving. She can be reached via Twitter or e-mail.
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Posted by bstroup at July 30, 2009 9:36 AM
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