When people ask for a handout, we may feel reluctant to help out. But when someone helps us when we are in need need, the value of charity becomes apparent.

When the early church went through a famine, the Macedonian congregation contributed spontaneously, somewhat putting to shame the Corinthian congregation.

When Paul attempted to motivate the Corinthians, he compared them to the Philippians, who were more generous with what they had than the richer Corinthians.

The widow who gave a mere two mites gave more than all the other contributors combined because she gave out of her poverty with genuine sacrifice.

The Pastor General of a well-known church made a statement that turned the giving of offerings into a competition and a rich man's game. Is this God's intent?

Deuteronomy 16:16 does not specify the exact amount of the offering, but does ask us to make a thoughtful recollection of the benefits received from God.

Christ's sacrifice was both a sacrifice (fulfilling the law, which requires the shedding of blood for expiation from sin) and an offering (freely given).

Fear of any kind is never an excuse to break any of God's laws. God wants us to learn the principle of reciprocity- that what we sow we will also reap.

Both we and God will get more out of our holy day offerings (Deuteronomy 16:16-17), especially spiritually, when we plan our giving.

The sacrificial system of Leviticus typifies spiritual sacrifices which we perform under the New Covenant. The animal sacrifices focused on total commitment.

Incense symbolizes the prayers of the saints. Our offerings, as our prayers, should remain holy for the Lord, exuding a fragrant aroma.

Christianity has both an inward aspect (building godly character or becoming sanctified) and an outward aspect (doing practical good works).

The Bible shows that economic disparity is a given. Scripture teaches that we should voluntarily help the poor rather than be coerced by the government.

We frequently admonish our children to 'Be nice,' but what does it mean? It is far better to learn kindness, a biblically defined fruit of God's Spirit.

This comprehensive overview of tithing explores the attitudes we should have toward tithing, the purposes of the tithe, and the benefits of tithing.

Solomon counsels us to exercise diligence, work hard, plan for disruptions, obstacles, and roadblocks, spreading risk to work within this futile world.