A troubling trend in modern preaching is the overemphasis on giving in order to receive blessings in return. While the principle of reaping and sowing is biblical, some teach it in a distorted way that appeals to greed rather than true generosity. The focus becomes about funding one’s own desires rather than caring for others’ needs.
If the motivation for giving is purely to get back more in return, it ceases to be a selfless, Christlike act. Our giving should be motivated by compassion, not calculation. As Jesus said, where our treasure is, our heart is also (Matthew 6:21). Giving should flow from having a heart surrendered to God rather than expecting him to fill our own storehouses.
Of course, Scripture does promise that generosity will be rewarded and needs met in due time. But if that reward is the primary incentive, the act of giving has become corrupted. The expectation of return can lead to resentment when blessings are not immediately forthcoming.
Rather than treating God as a cosmic banker, we are called to give freely, even sacrificially, motivated by love. While God graciously promises to care for the generous, we give out of devotion to Him, not just to secure outcomes for self.
Our churches must teach biblical principles of stewardship and giving but emphasize motivations of faith, love, and compassion. As we give freely out of Christlike care for others, trusting God with the outcomes, we can break free from distorted practices that ultimately focus on ourselves. May our generosity flow from humble and loving hearts.
