Giving to God

Call to Prayer

Title: Giving to God

By: Simon Maina Nuhu

Date:09.05.2025

^“3 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. ⁴ And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering:” (Genesis 4:3-4). 

One of the first acts of giving to God was performed by the first seeds of Adam; Cain and Abel. We are told that both of them offered to the Lord from the fruit of their labor but their approaches differed significantly. Abel chose the very best of his fat flock and willingly offered to God, on the other hand, his sibling Cain, however, offered to God sparingly not with a genuine heart (Genesis 4:2-6).

God being just and fair, fearing no man, openly acknowledged the sacrifice of Abel over that of Cain. The two brothers’ offerings became an example of the distinction between a sincere and reluctant manner of giving to God to the subsequent generations. No doubt that God owns everything, nevertheless, He wants us to demonstrate our loyalty, gratitude, commitment, and generosity to Him with the blessing of material blessings He has abundantly given us to enjoy.

What matters most to God isn’t the size of the gift, but the sincerity of the heart behind it. It also does not include robbing or falsely taking advantage of other people and offering to God (more like robbing Peter to bless Paul). Another great example of a generous offering in the Bible was displayed by the Old poor widow who offered her last dime while others were casting according to the abundance of their blessings (Matthew 12:42-44). That act attracted Jesus’ attention and recognition of her offering as the best offering to God among all others.

In the New Testament, we receive a superior understanding that the best act of giving is presenting oneself as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable before the Lord (Romans 12:1). It is after this that our giving of material things out of a willing desire/interest without compulsion becomes acceptable before God (1 Samuel 15:22). In addition, our Lord commanded us that before we offer anything on the altar, we should first forgive and settle whatever problem we have with people (Matthew 5:23-24).

Beloved, it’s essential to recognize that God sees every offering we give Him but only acknowledges those that come from a genuine heart. He looks beyond the size or quantity of the sacrifice and sees the intentions of the heart. You might wonder what you can offer God, considering He owns everything. The good news is that there are many ways to give to God, regardless of your financial situation. You can offer your time, skills, service, your youthful energy, your talents, and your profession. Your passion for souls, willingness to serve, and even obedience are acts of worship. It’s not about giving gold, silver, precious stones, or material wealth; it’s about giving Him the best you have, no matter how small it may seem.

Prayer points:

Let us thank God today for His word. Let’s ask Him for passion to give our best and all to Him without murmuring or grumbling.

Repost: 10.05.2024