Friday, September 20, 2013

September 20, 2013

"For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us." II Corinthians 8:3-5

Over the past two posts I have detailed two approaches to giving like the Corinthians did, beyond your ability. I talked about the Faith-Promise approach and I talked about the Self-Denial approach. I recommend them both. I do both.

What went without saying probably needs to be said is that these two approaches need to be practiced in addition to tithing. Faith-Promise is recommended but optional. Self-Denial is also optional. Tithing is required by Scripture. 

This is why I refer to this approach as "3-D Giving" - it is giving in three different ways.

In addition to a 3-D approach to giving there is also a 3-D attitude that is expressed in these verses. I want to challenge you with those attitudes.


I GIVE MYSELF TO GOD – “They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.”

What God desires the most from you is your love and your loyalty. If He has your heart He will get your checkbook. Give yourself to God as your Sovereign and Christ as your Savior.

When God meets the deepest need in your life He brings a spiritual transformation within you. Because of that fundamental change that happens you will become concerned about the needs of others and more generous toward them.

GOD GIVES HIS STUFF TO ME - “For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability.

When you get to know God in a personal way He adds a whole new dimension to your life! That dimension is the dimension of faith. With that faith you begin to trust God to supply your needs and to use you to provide the needs of others!

Once you know God by faith, you have access to all of His resources plus you have possession of His goodness and generosity.

I SHARE GOD’S STUFF WITH OTHERS – “Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people.

When you get God's nature giving becomes second nature for you!

The 3-D attitude of a giver gives himself to God as Savior, then acknowledges God as his source and then sees himself as a steward of God's blessings! When these three things happen life takes on a new dimension!

Are you a 3-D giver?