All verses are from the New Living Translation unless otherwise stated.

We’ve all heard verses like 2 Corinthians 9:6, which says “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,” but have you thought about what it means to give generously? It may actually not be about the dollar signs, but instead about your heart in giving. We sometimes get caught up in tithing begrudgingly, but what does God really say about giving? Here are some verses that will help you as you give this year.

Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do. Deuteronomy 15:10

The people rejoiced over the offerings, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord, and King David was filled with joy. 1 Chronicles 29:9

Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. Matthew 6:1

You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Corinthians 9:7

Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow. Matthew 5:42

The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25

Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Luke 12:33-34

Those who are taught the word of God should provide for their teachers, sharing all good things with them. Galatians 6:6

Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27

But Peter said, “I don’t have any silver or gold for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk!” Acts 3:6

Their only suggestion was that we keep on helping the poor, which I have always been eager to do. Galatians 2:10

John replied, “If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry.” Luke 3:11

Do not charge interest on the loans you make to a fellow Israelite, whether you loan money, or food, or anything else. Deuteronomy 23:19

When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Romans 12:13

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 1 Peter 4:10

And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:16

 

I feel like the Bible teaches us some principles about giving. It says that we should be giving in both time and money. It says we should be generous and willing to give anything we can– if we don’t have money, we should serve. If we have two shirts, we should give one. The Bible talks more about whole-hearted giving, passionate, genuine giving, than it does many other topics, even in relation to money and giving.

If you want to serve others, or inspire a heart of giving in your child, you might also like this post on ways kids can serve others. A serving, giving heart is so vital, and instilling that in your kids at a young age is wonderful.