GIVING - God moves powerfully through giving

SCRIPTURE
Matthew 6:21 | Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

2 Corinthians 9:6-15 | Remember this - a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And do not give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say,

They share freely and give generously to the poor.

Their good deeds will be remembered forever.

For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.

Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving - the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.

As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!

Proverbs 3:27 | Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when its in your power to help them.


DISCUSSION

1. God promises that He will give to us enough that we can always be generous givers. Why do you think us giving so that others can be blessed is so important to God?
2. When you give your tithe to God at church, how does God use that gift so that others can be blessed?
3. When our giving meets someone else’s need, how might that point them to Jesus?
4. Is giving to God optional? Why or why not?
5. How is giving a reflection of our obedience to the gospel (2nd Corinthians 9:13)?
6. If we are able to meet the need of someone struggling, Proverbs tells us we should do it. Who do you know who is struggling? What needs might you be able to meet this week? Be a doer!!