The Treasure Trove of Generous GivingSample

Principle #4: Understand the Ultimate Measurement

God measures our giving by what we keep for ourselves.

This brings us to the fourth and final principle. I believe it’s the most overlooked principle of stewardship, and it may reveal the reason why we have yet to be released into real biblical revival levels of generosity today.

“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the hearts.” – Proverbs 21:1-2, MEV

Man measures giving by what we give to others. God measures giving by what we keep for ourselves. The percentage we keep for ourselves is usually far higher than what we give away to other people. We know this fourth principle to be true and fundamental because Jesus said so right there in the text. She gave “more…than all” of them combined (v. 43). How is that so, Jesus? Because she gave everything she had to live on—that’s 100 percent.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6, MEV

The number one reason people do not give extravagantly is because they fear they won’t have enough left over for themselves, thinking, “If I give to the work of God, then I won’t have enough for rent, food, etc." But remember, the Bible says God will meet all your needs and then some, though not always in the scope or timing we expect. It’s worth reflecting on this truth, as the Bible reminds us that God provides for all our needs in His timing—ultimately, it's about where we place our trust.

Do you believe that today?

Want to read more? Check out Greg Locke’s The Generosity Journey at MyCharismaShop.com .