20 Bible Verses About Giving (With Commentary)

Many of us struggle with the idea of giving and what it truly means to be generous. The Bible is rich with verses that outline the blessings and principles behind a giving heart. In this post, we’ll explore scriptural insights to ease your uncertainties and inspire you to give from a place of abundance and joy.

Let’s discover together how giving can transform not just others’ lives, but ours too.

The Blessings of Giving

1. 2 Corinthians 9:7

“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.”

“God loves a cheerful giver.” That’s what we find in 2 Corinthians 9:7. It says you should give because you want to, not because you feel forced. When your heart is happy to help others, that’s the best kind of giving! This part of the Bible tells us it’s not about how much we give; it’s really about how we feel when we do it.

This verse shows us true giving comes from deep inside. You don’t need to worry if what you share isn’t a lot. What matters is if your heart is in the right place. If you’re giving with joy and not because someone else said you have to, then you’re doing it just like God wants.

2. Proverbs 11:24-25

“One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

Proverbs 11:24-25 tells us about the power of giving. It says that some people give freely and end up with more, while others hold back what they should give and they become needy.

This Bible verse really wants us to see that when we help others, it’s like planting seeds for good things in our own lives. It teaches a big lesson – if you’re kind and generous, you’ll be blessed for it.

You’ll make life richer for yourself and the person you’re helping.

The words show us a picture – being generous is like watering a garden, which ends up making everything grow better, even your own happiness! And there’s also this idea that if you want to lift someone else up or “refresh” them as the verse puts it, you’ll feel refreshed too.

Giving doesn’t just change someone else’s day; it changes yours too. Helping out people in need isn’t just about them – it makes your heart feel full and brings joy into your life as well.

3. Acts 20:35

“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'”

Giving isn’t just about the stuff we hand out; it’s a heart thing. In Acts 20:35, Jesus Himself tells us there’s a bigger blessing in giving than getting. Imagine that! When we share what we have, it’s like planting happiness seeds that grow into even more joy for us and others.

This verse shines a light on exactly how cool giving can be. It says to us, “Hey, you know the happy feeling you get when someone gives you a gift? You’ll feel even better when you’re the one doing the giving!” This part of the Bible nudges us towards being open-handed and full of love, just like God is with us.

4. Malachi 3:10

“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.”

Acts 20:35 shows us the joy of giving, and Malachi 3:10 takes it a step further. This verse is special because it’s where God says, “Test me.” He asks His people to bring their whole tithe into the storehouse.

That means all that they have promised to give. It’s not just about money; it’s about food from their land too.

God promises to open the windows of heaven for those who trust Him with their gifts. He’ll pour out so many blessings there won’t be room enough to keep them. It’s an amazing promise! The verse teaches us that what we own is really God’s anyway.

So when we give our tithes and offerings, we show that we understand everything comes from Him.

5. Luke 6:38

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Luke 6:38 talks about the beauty of giving and how it comes back to you. Give with a full heart—and what do you know—gifts pour into your life too. It’s like when you scoop out flour; if you pack it down, shake it together, and let it overflow, that’s how much you’ll get in return.

This verse isn’t just about money. It tells us to share love, time, and care with each other.

Jesus makes it clear: our lives grow richer not by keeping things but by sharing them. In this way of giving and getting blessings flow all around. So go ahead, help someone out or make their day brighter! You’re planting seeds for wonderful gifts yet to come your way.

The Principles of Giving

6. 2 Corinthians 9:6

“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”

In 2 Corinthians 9:6, we learn a powerful lesson about giving. This verse tells us that the more we give with a good heart, the more we will get back. It’s like planting seeds. If you plant only a few, you’ll get a small crop.

But if you plant lots and lots, your crop will be huge! Our attitude when giving is super important too.

God loves it when we are happy to give. We shouldn’t feel forced or sad to help others out. When our hearts are cheerful and willing as we share what we have, it pleases God big time! And this isn’t just about money—it’s about anything good we can do for someone else, showing them love and kindness just like Jesus taught us.

7. Matthew 6:3-4

“But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Just like planting seeds can grow a big harvest, the Bible teaches that giving should come from the heart. Matthew 6:3-4 tells us something very special about how to give. It says when you help others, don’t tell everyone about it.

Your good deeds should be done in secret, not for a show or thank yous.

God sees all the kind things we do even if no one else notices. He promises that those who give quietly and without looking for praise will get a reward from Him. This helps us remember to stay humble and generous, just as Jesus taught us.

We are called to focus on God’s love rather than what others think of our actions.

8. 1 Chronicles 29:9

“Then the people rejoiced because they had offered willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the Lord; David the king also rejoiced greatly.”

In the book of 1 Chronicles, Chapter 29, verse 9, people show big hearts. They give to God because they want to, not because they have to. This makes them very happy. It’s like when you give someone a gift and seeing their smile makes you feel good.

David gives his people a chance to help with a special project for God’s house. The leaders set a good example by giving first. Their excitement spreads to others as everyone starts giving too.

They all feel joy in their hearts because they know it is more than just stuff—they are part of something bigger that honors God.

9. Proverbs 3:27

“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.”

Have the power to help? Proverbs 3:27 says go for it! If you can do good for someone who needs it, don’t wait. This wise saying teaches us to be quick in giving a hand. It’s all about not missing chances to show kindness.

Be that person who steps up with a generous heart when others are in need.

This verse from Proverbs tells us giving isn’t just nice; it’s what we should do. It’s like the Bible is nudging us and saying, “You’ve got this, so share it!” Give your time, love, or whatever you have.

By doing so, you make life better for others and live the way God wants.

10. 1 Timothy 6:17-19

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.”

God tells those with money not to be too proud or trust in their cash. Instead, they should count on Him. He gives us everything to enjoy. But that’s not all—He wants rich people to do lots of good things, to be generous, and ready to share.

By doing this, they save up for themselves a good future. They make sure they can grab the life that is truly life.

People with wealth have a special job: use it well! Help others and get involved in God’s work. This way, your heart focuses on heaven more than your bank account.

Giving as Worship

11. Exodus 35:22

“All who were willing, men and women alike, came and brought gold jewelry of all kinds: brooches, earrings, rings and ornaments. They all presented their gold as a wave offering to the Lord.”

In Exodus 35:22, the children of Israel showed what it looks like to give with joy. Men and women came forward. Their hearts were happy to help build God’s house, the tabernacle. No one forced them; their gifts were free choices.

They brought gold, jewelry—all sorts of treasures. This was not just a duty but an act of worship.

Their actions teach us something important about giving. It’s not just about what we give or how much—it’s about our attitude. A willing heart turns giving into something special for God’s work—just like those Israelites who gave what they could to honor the Lord in building His temple.

12. Mark 12:41-44

“Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.”

Just as people offered gifts out of their abundance in Exodus, a humble widow in Mark 12:41-44 teaches us something profound. She dropped two small coins into the temple treasury, which was all she had to live on.

Jesus noticed her and told his disciples that this poor widow gave more than the others. They had given from their wealth, but she gave everything — her whole life.

Her act of giving showed true worship and trust in God’s care. It wasn’t about the amount; it was her heart that mattered most to Jesus. This story calls us to look at our own giving.

We learn that it’s not just what we give but how we give that truly counts for God’s kingdom. Let this story inspire generosity no matter how big or small our gift may be.

13. 2 Corinthians 8:12

“For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.”

2 Corinthians 8:12 tells us something special about giving. It says if you want to give, it’s not about how much you have. What matters is that you’re willing to share what you can.

This verse lets us know that God cares more about the love behind your gift than the size of it.

In this part of the Bible, we learn a great lesson – give from the heart and according to what’s possible for you. That’s pleasing in God’s eyes! You don’t need to worry if someone else gives more or less.

If your heart is open and you give with joy, that’s what really counts. And this kind of giving has its roots in kindness; just like Christ Jesus showed us with His life, our gifts should be acts of love for others.

14. Philippians 4:18

“I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.”

Paul talks about giving in Philippians 4:18. He says that when we help others, it’s like a sweet smell to God. It’s an offering He really likes. When you share what you have, it pleases Him a lot.

Think of your gifts like seeds planted in a big garden. Those seeds grow and feed many people. And just as Paul believed, God takes care of those who give with open hearts. So when you offer something from your heart, believe that God sees this as something precious, and He will look after you too.

15. Matthew 5:23-24

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”

Just as gifts given in worship matter, so does the peace between you and others. Matthew 5:23-24 teaches us an important truth. It tells us to fix our problems with friends or family before we give a gift to God.

Jesus said if you are about to give something at the altar but remember someone is upset with you, go make things right first. This shows that being kind and fair to people around us is as crucial as worshipping God.

Living in harmony with others makes our gifts more meaningful to God. He wants us not just to offer things but also carry love in our hearts for each other. So, when we sort out our differences and forgive, it’s like giving two gifts – one of kindness to another person and one of obedience to God’s way of loving others as we love ourselves.

The Joy of Giving

16. Proverbs 21:26

“All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing.”

Proverbs 21:26 talks about two kinds of people. Some always want more and are never happy with what they have. This is called being greedy. Others love to give and share, which is being generous.

The verse teaches us that it’s better to be the person who gives.

It reminds us that when we help others, we show God’s love. Being generous means not holding back but giving to those in need willingly. It’s not only about money; sharing our time and kindness counts too! Giving makes us feel good inside because it honors God and His teachings on loving our neighbors.

17. Acts 2:44-45

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.”

The spirit of generosity shines bright in the early Christian community. They knew the joy of sharing was part of following Jesus. In Acts 2:44-45, all believers were together and shared everything they had.

They sold their things and lands to give to anyone who needed help.

This showed love just like Jesus taught them. Their giving wasn’t about rules or showing off; it was a natural act because God’s presence filled their hearts. It tells us that when we have more than enough, we should use it to support those who struggle.

Giving in this way makes everyone feel cared for and builds a strong bond among people.

18. Hebrews 13:16

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

Hebrews 13:16 tells us to share with others and do good things. God loves it when we give and help people out. It’s like a special gift that makes Him happy. We must keep being kind and sharing what we have, because this is the way to offer something great to God.

Sharing isn’t just nice; it’s what God asks from us as a way of worship. When we give time, money, or love to others without thinking of getting something back, we are doing exactly what Hebrews 13:16 says.

This verse invites us all to act in love and generosity towards each other every chance we get.

19. 2 Corinthians 8:2

“In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.”

Going from helping others through actions, we see the believers in Macedonia who were rich in giving. Though they had very little money and faced hard times, their big joy made them want to give a lot.

They showed us that even when you don’t have much, your heart can be full of kindness.

The Macedonian churches gave generously, just like Jesus did for all of us. Their story is told in 2 Corinthians 8:2 to inspire us. It’s not about how much we own but how willing we are to share with others.

This kind of giving pleases God because it comes from love and grace, not from having a lot of stuff.

20. Romans 12:8

“If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If it is leading, lead diligently. If it is showing mercy, do it cheerfully.”

After exploring how giving can be a sign of joy, we see Romans 12:8 highlight another aspect—giving as a gift. God graces each person with unique abilities. For some, this includes the special skill to give generously.

This verse tells us that if our talent is giving, then we should do it well and with all our heart.

Romans 12:8 reminds us to use what we’ve been given to support others. It’s not just about money—it could be time, attention, or care. The important thing is that when we give as God has taught us, we are showing love and helping build His kingdom on Earth.

Conclusion

Giving is a special part of life. The Bible talks a lot about sharing what we have. When we give, it makes our hearts happy and helps others too. Remember these verses to inspire you to be kind and generous.

It’s amazing how giving brings joy not just to others, but to you as well!

FAQs

1. What does the Bible say about giving to others?

The Bible tells us that giving is important, like when Jesus says in Matthew 5:42 to give to those who ask. It talks a lot about tithing and being generous with our material possessions for God’s kingdom.

2. Is there a special way we should give according to the Bible?

Yes, in secret! Matthew 6:1 teaches us to give quietly without seeking credit so that our reward comes from God, not people’s praise.

3. Are there any stories in the Bible about people giving?

Sure are! Remember Abram who gave Melchizedek gifts? And how Jesus praised a poor widow because she gave all she had? These show us sacrificial giving which means offering much even when it’s hard.

4. Why do Christians believe giving is key to their faith?

Christians see giving as part of following Jesus Christ, showing gratitude, humility and selflessness – just like He did. John 3:16 shows God gave His son for eternal life – that’s ultimate generosity!

5. Do both parts of the Bible talk about giving?

Absolutely—Old Testament verses tell of Abraham offering first fruits and New Testament passages speak of sowing and reaping rewards in heaven through financial stewardship.

6. How can we use teachings on giving today?

By living out what verses preach – offering help and sharing with others while remembering why we do it – for the love shared by our Lord Jesus Christ and not for applause from others.