Advancing Giving

Finances play a large role in our lives. We are given instruction and promises in scripture about how God expects us to live in regard to our finances (Malachi 3:8-10). Putting the Kingdom of God first in all areas of our life is how Jesus commands us to live (Matthew 6:9-10, 6:33).

FORMS OF GIVING

Obedient Giving (what I’m told to do) is described in Malachi 3:8-10. All we have belongs to God so when we give a tithe (ten per cent) back to Him, it is not only an act of obedience but also an act of thankfulness for His generosity towards us.

Sacrificial Giving (what we can do) is giving above our tithes. When we deny ourselves something we desire, to advance the kingdom of God, our sacrificial offering is considered a form of worship.

Faith Giving (what we are believing God to do through us) is what we know God is asking us to do that stretches our resources and realities. This is when we see God do financial miracles to see His kingdom advance. This type of giving is prompted by the leading of the Holy Spirit to step out in faith.

Giving Sparingly (places ourselves first) places our desires first in our lives. We all have things we enjoy and there is nothing wrong with that. God has created the world for us to enjoy. The challenge is not allowing the things to become more important than obedience to the leading of Holy Spirit.

Giving Generously (places God and others first) places God and others first. It is not tied to the amount that we give—we may not be able to give equally but we can equally sacrifice—and we can be united in our motivation behind the gift. Jesus describes this in Mark 12:44.

Through prayer, unity and obedience we trust that God will speak to each and every one of us, and that our giving will produce not only a physical building, but a spiritual revival. Every gift will add up to make an impact no matter how much you give.

Donations are eligible for a charitable tax receipt for the calendar year in which they were received. This may significantly reduce your federal and provincial income tax each year. In Alberta, you may be entitled to a tax credit of up to 50% of the portion in excess of $200, depending on your income. Please talk to the CRA or your professional accountant for more details.