The Spiritual Gift of Giving
Service Gift — Romans 12:8
μεταδιδούς (met-ad-id-ous’) — present active participle of μεταδίδωμι — /meta, with + /didomi, to give. The one who is giving — continuously, habitually, as a lifestyle. Paul adds ἁπλότητι (simplicity, sincerity) — the giving must be free of hidden motive. Giving is a progressive gift. God uses it to meet the needs of speakers, ministries, and local churches.
Giving as Defined
- Sharing — LUK 3:11
- Generous — ROM 12:8
- Sacrifice — MAR 12:41-44
- Freely Give — MAT 6:3
Giving as Named
The Widow of Zarephath gave her last meal to Elijah and her barrel of meal never ran out (1KI 17:14-16). Barnabas sold land and laid the money at the apostles’ feet (ACS 4:36-37). Tabitha was full of good works and almsdeeds (ACS 9:36) — a quiet, consistent expression of the gift in daily life.
Giving as Ministry
The gift of Giving is dependent upon God’s multiplication and provision. The widow’s two mites exceeded all others because she gave out of her want, not her abundance (MAR 12:41-44). The gift does not require wealth — it requires obedience.
Serving in Giving
Avoid trying to meet all needs with your own resources. Avoid stockpiling what God has placed in your hands. Avoid wanting recognition for what God has done through you. The gift operates best anonymously.