Giving Glorifies God and Expands His Kingdom

Message Study Questions

Message Summary

God wants our relationship with Him to take priority over the pursuit of material wealth. He says that if you seek the kingdom of God first, blessings of all kinds will follow. God wants you to be financially fit. That’s why he gives us instructions on how to manage our finances in His Word.

Aligning your finances with God’s plan provides three positive benefits.

First, your life will get better. You will be blessed with peace in your heart, peace in your decisions and relationships. When you live in the center of God’s will, that’s the best life you can live. It doesn’t mean that life is easy, but it is rewarding.

Second, following God’s financial plans demonstrates that you are putting God first and are a witness to the world. You will have a testimony about God’s provision in your life.

Third, the kingdom of God is expanded because you apply biblical principles to your finances. Your giving literally helps build God’s Kingdom. It leads people out of darkness into the light of God’s love.

1. It has been said that it is better to give than to receive. Have you experienced that in your life? How?
   

2. How do you determine what God wants from you?
   

Consider This

1. Read Malachi 3:10:12. What do you think the “whole tithe” means?

   • What does it mean to test God in this matter?
   • What are some of the blessings promised?
   • What are the conditions for receiving this blessing? Are there any others?
     

2. Who is the most generous person you know? Why do you think that person is generous?
   

3. Have you ever sensed that your relationship with God was off or distant because you were knowingly disobeying? How did that affect you?
   

4. What does it feel like to obey God, even when it stings?
   

5. Read Exodus 36:1-7. What attitude did the Israelites demonstrate in their giving?

   • How does using our skill and abilities be a way of worshiping God?
   • Why did the people’s exuberant giving create a problem?
   • Why do you think they were they giving to excess?
     

6. Have you ever been so hungry for God’s presence that you were willing to do anything to be in His presence?
   

7. According to 2 Corinthians 9:6-14 what is the principle of sowing reaping?

   • Does your attitude matter (v 7)?
   • How is God honored when you give (v 13)?
     

8. Read 1 Timothy 6:10. What is the difference between “money” and “the love of money?” What are some results of the love of money?
   

Moving Forward – Application

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Galatians 6:7

1. What can you do this week to demonstrate generosity?
   

2. What unconfessed sin or bad attitude toward the Lord or others would you be willing to confront this week?
   

3. How could you encourage a friend to be a cheerful giver this week?
   

4. List some ways that God is generous toward you each day this week.