The Spiritual Gift of Giving

by Debbie Winans

The gift of giving is the deep commitment to provide whatever resources are needed to support God’s will and plan.  The Greek word for the spiritual gift of giving is metadidomi.  It simply means “to impart” or “to give.”  However, in Romans 12:8 this word is accompanied by another descriptive word: haplotes.  This word tells much more about the kind of giving associated with this gift.  Haplotes means “sincerely, generously and without pretense or hypocrisy.”

If God has given you the gift of generosity, you have tremendous potential to make a powerful difference in the world.  You have the opportunity to ensure the things you care about continue to thrive.  Because many of the things that are important to us cannot take care of themselves, they require work and attention.  However, the Lord tells us that where much is required, much will be received.  2 Corinthians 9:6-8 says, “Remember this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.  Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.  And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”  Luke 6:38 tells us: “Give, and it will be given to you.  A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.”

As the season of giving approaches, keep in mind that giving reflects a grateful heart that wants to give back to God a portion of what God has given you; in reality, what is already God’s.  This is your opportunity to show that God is first in your life.  Giving is a reminder that God is the supplier of everything you have.  It is also God’s personal invitation to an outpouring of God’s blessing in your life.