Giving is biblical. Giving is what God did to make the world. He spoke the world into creation and gave it rules and subjugation to His authority and will. With God the universe simply would not exist. Yet, God not only gives in the "good" times; He gives all the time, even when it costs Him.John 3:16 is no slacker statement. It clearly reveals the fullness of the generosity and extravagance of God's sacrificial nature. Romans 5:8 goes even further by describing the relationship that exists between God and man at the moment God gave it all for man: enemies. Yet despite man's sin, hostility, and inability to repay God, God gave His Son to make us new and forgive us our debt of sin against Him. Giving is Goldy, and it is very costly; yet, we, as imitators of God (Eph. 5:1) are called to do likewise.
Resolution #3:
This year let us commit to give financially to the ministry of the Lord. No, we are not just talking about tithes and offerings to the church. As important as they are (and commanded in Scriptural), it is just as important to give tangibly to those hurting around you. Help your neighbor take out the trash. Offer to babysit for free. Buy your coworker lunch. GIVE! And when you do, tell them why. Tell them you give, because Jesus first gave to you. Give God the glory and you will not only be a "Godly giver," but God will be pleased and bring His blessing into your life (Luke 6:38 and 18:29-30).
