What is giving and why is it important?

Just like how there are different definitions of giving, it also comes in various forms. According to the scriptures, these are the four types of giving:

1. Tithe

In the bible, a tithe is often described as a tenth of one’s income that should be reserved for the lord. It’s more than just a symbol of gratitude for His divine providence but also a recognition that He alone is the source and provider of all things.

2. Offerings

Offerings are anything you offer to God that’s in excess of the required tithe. While tithe has a required amount, offerings are given out of one’s free will. The amount totally depends on you.

3. Grace

Grace giving is when the blessings of God flow through you and into the people who need them. In short, you become the vessel by which God’s abundance overflows. It can either be financial abundance or an abundance in love or spiritual awakening. All of these are given through God’s grace which enables you to share them with the people around you.

4. Alms

This is the kind of giving that we’re most familiar with. Alms refer to anything given to help the poor and less fortunate. From the old to the New Testament, the bible repeatedly emphasizes our duty to give to those who have less than us. From giving food to the homeless to helping a low-income family with their groceries, all these are examples of almsgiving.

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Scriptures on giving: Luke 6:38, Malachi 3:10 , Acts 20:35, Proverbs 22:9, etc.