Newfoundland and Labrador writer Fraser D. Roberts reflects on why we're still called – even after the pandemic changed our habits – to build on that habit.
Giving thanks is important – and not only because it’s good manners. It’s a practice that benefits the giver just as much as the receiver.
Saying grace – a brief prayer of thanks before a meal – is one time-tested way Christians do it. Some of us recite a prayer of familiar rhymes and rhythms, while others are more original and spontaneous.
Another way Christians have always given thanks is through regular financial giving to help needy people, to resource worthy causes, and to support Christian communities. Here are some ideas on why that’s important.
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Giving is an attitude of gratitude. While the primary reason for giving money is to participate in God’s work in the world, the secondary reason is to acknowledge His providential faithfulness in our lives by acting in faith – giving not our leftovers but our first fruits. Regular financial giving is more than a religious system or a means of financing Kingdom work – it is also a way for us to cultivate an appreciatory culture in our homes, churches and communities.
Giving is a spiritual practice. The desire to give is a fruit of the Spirit in all believers. The value, belief and practice of regularly tithing on our income, supporting international missions work, famine relief, building programs, local outreach and other initiatives is a strong part of Christian history and present culture. In recognition of all that God has done for us, and in response to what He wants to do in the lives of people who do not yet know Him, it is natural for us as His disciples to have an innate desire to give.
Giving is a scriptural principle. Our sinful DNA causes humans to want to take more than we give – and unfortunately some Christians remain influenced by such thinking, missing out on God’s blessing, losing more than they gain. But if we truly understand the biblical principle of giving, if we choose to give with the right motives, we join in God’s dispensing of benefits and gifts to all His children. As Jesus taught His disciples, “It is more blessed to give than receive” (Acts 20:35). God showers His blessing on those who obey His Word, follow His example and give.
Giving is an act of worship. Historically most churches have included a time of giving in worship services often called the collection or the offering. These moments set aside to give often involve a prayer of blessing and thanksgiving and the singing of a song of thanks. Parents in some traditions even take care to ensure their children are prepared to give too. While giving is often encouraged publicly, for many people it’s a very private matter. However it’s done, it’s a crucial outworking of biblical discipleship.
Enter a global pandemic. Due to medical precautions, new methods and patterns of giving had to be adopted. Instead of collecting offerings as part of our worship ritual, contributions have been received while entering or exiting the sanctuary or online. While such changes were already implemented in some churches, their usage has been accelerated in recent years.
Amid these changes, a reminder is warranted. As our church families gather together for worship, are we still saying grace? While it is important for us to promote giving, and to inform our people regarding their giving method options, is the act of giving still being incorporated into our worship services? The question is not whether an offering is collected in the worship service; the question is whether or not we are taking the time to actually say grace during the worship service – to pray a prayer of blessing and thanksgiving over what has been given and received.
Is giving one of your good habits? What about giving thanks? God has called each one of us to keep growing in the grace of giving. It’s a good habit that will bless Him and benefit others.
Fraser D. Roberts of St. John's, NL, is general secretary-treasurer of The Pentecostal Assemblies of Newfoundland & Labrador. Photo from Annie Spratt on Unsplash.