Loving others · How-to guides
How to Give
Giving is one of the great joys of the Christian life, a way to loosen the grip of greed and reflect a generous God. Here is how to give in a way that is cheerful and free.
See everything as God's gift first
You give because you first received. All you have came from God's open hand, and giving simply passes His generosity on.
“Freely ye have received, freely give.”Matthew 10:8, King James Version
Give from the heart, not from pressure
God loves a cheerful giver. Decide in your heart what to give, and give it gladly rather than grudgingly.
“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”2 Corinthians 9:7, King James Version
Give generously and trust God to provide
Generosity is an act of faith that God will supply your needs. Giving loosens fear's grip on your heart.
“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together.”Luke 6:38, King James Version
Remember the poor
God has a special heart for the needy, and He counts kindness to them as kindness to Him.
“He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD.”Proverbs 19:17, King James Version
Give quietly
Give for God's eyes, not for applause. The purest giving does not announce itself.
“But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth.”Matthew 6:3, King James Version
The One who makes this possible: Jesus
Jesus gave the greatest gift of all, holding nothing back, so that you could be rich in Him. Our giving is only a small echo of His self-giving love. Because He gave everything for you, you can hold your possessions with open hands and a grateful, unafraid heart.
Love is meant to be shared. You can find people near you, share the good news, or pray for the one on your heart.
Common questions
What does the Bible say about giving?
The Bible calls us to give generously, cheerfully, and from the heart rather than under pressure, since God loves a cheerful giver. It ties giving to trust in God's provision and special care for the poor, and urges giving quietly, for God's eyes.
How much should I give?
Scripture points to generous, purposeful giving rather than a single fixed rule for everyone; the tithe, a tenth, is a common starting guide. The key is to decide in your heart, give cheerfully, and trust God to provide.