Does God Still Expect Us to Give?

By Billy Graham, Tribune Content Agency on Jul 23, 2016

Q: We've had some hard times since my husband lost his job and has only been able to find part-time work. Does God still expect us to give something to our church? I don't want God to get mad at us, but money is really tight right now, and I don't see how we can give anything. -- Mrs. N.F.

A: Have you ever stopped to ask yourself why we ought to give to God's work, whether it's to our church or to other ministries? Is it simply because He has commanded us to give, and we're afraid He might get angry with us if we don't (as your email suggests)?

No, not at all. Giving to God's work, the Bible says, shouldn't just be an obligation -- much less a way to make God happy with us. Instead, giving should be a result of something far deeper: our love for God and His work. You see, no matter how generous we are, we should never give because we think we're buying God's favor -- much less earning our salvation. Our salvation comes solely through Jesus Christ, who by His death and resurrection purchased our salvation for us, and now offers it to us as a free gift.

Make certain, therefore, of your commitment to Jesus Christ. Realize how much He loved you -- and how much He continues to love you, no matter what you're going through. God's promise is for you: Nothing "will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:39).

Then ask Him to help you respond to His love in every way you possibly can -- including your giving. Even if it's only a small amount right now, give something -- and trust God to use it for His glory.

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(Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.)