Giving: Donations, Tithes, Offerings & Alms

Scripture
Luke 12:22-34
[22] And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. [23] For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. [24] Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! [25] And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? [26] If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? [27] Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [28] But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! [29] And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. [30] For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. [31] Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
[32] “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. [33] Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. [34] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Songs
Run Devil Run
Love Come Down
Soul on Fire
Sons and Daughters
We Believe

The Big Picture
As a normal rhythm in our lives, exercising generosity through consistent financial giving impacts us in these ways:

It confronts our idol(s)
It blesses others in tangible ways (see also James 2:16)
It safeguards against greed (see also Psalm 10:3)
It is a diagnostic tool for our heart
It is a physical expression of our reliance on God (See also Psalm 24:1)

Reflection
1. What are some of the ways that you guard against greed?
2. How do you engage with anxiety related to money?
3. How do the Lord’s words in Luke 12:22-34 impact you?
Book Recommendations