The Principle of Sacrificial Giving
The core message is simple: I will not give God things that do not cost me. When you offer to God, it must come from a place of genuine sacrifice—a gift that reflects the value of what you truly possess. As we read in Scripture:
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” (Malachi 3:10)
What Is a Sacrificial Gift?
A sacrificial gift isn’t measured by the nominal amount you give compared to your total wealth. If you have one million in your bank and you give one thousand, that gift does not reflect the cost of sacrifice. Instead, a true sacrificial gift is one that costs you, that requires you to part with something truly valuable. This principle is exemplified in the Bible through the story of Anna, the mother of Samuel:
“And she made a vow, saying, ‘O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.’” (1 Samuel 1:11)
Anna’s sacrificial offering—giving her child to God—cost her greatly, and in return, God blessed her through Samuel, who became a mighty prophet.
The Blessing of Sacrificial Giving
When you give something that costs you, God does not hold back. He rewards true sacrifice. Abraham was called to sacrifice what was most precious to him—his promised son, Isaac—and even though God did not allow the sacrifice to be completed, it demonstrated his unwavering faith and commitment.
“And it shall come to pass, if thou doest indeed obey my voice … and bringest an offering in the morning … then will I give you the blessings of the heavens, and the earth shall bless you.” (Adapted from Deuteronomy 26:11)
Sacrificial giving is not just about money—it’s about giving your time, your talents, and even your personal comfort to serve God. It shows that you trust Him completely with what is most valuable in your life.
Application in Our Lives Today
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Prioritize God’s Kingdom: Even if you are busy with studies or work, set aside intentional time to serve and give to God. Remember, your future and your eternal reward are secure in His hands.
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Give What Costs You: Evaluate what it truly means to sacrifice. It may mean adjusting your lifestyle, giving up something cherished, or stepping out of your comfort zone.
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Trust in God’s Provision: When you give sacrificially, trust that God will meet your needs and multiply your blessings, as promised in Scripture.
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7)
Conclusion
I will not give God things that do not cost me. Sacrificial giving is an expression of genuine love, trust, and commitment to God. When you offer your best—what truly costs you—God responds powerfully. He honors your sacrifice and blesses you in return, preparing you for a future filled with His abundance.
May God bless you richly as you learn to give sacrificially, trusting in His everlasting grace. Amen.
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