Do you know a truly generous Christian? I do. Christian giving can in fact be a gift of the Holy Spirit. We know this from Rom. 12:8, where Paul lists giving as a charisma of God, along with prophecy, teaching, serving, etc. The Greek is:
Here are some renderings:
- NIV: "if it is in giving, then give generously."
- NKJV: "he who gives, with liberality."
- NASB: "the one who gives, with generosity."
- GNT: "Whoever shares with others should do it generously."
In its original context, the reference is probably to those who distributed the alms of the church. But we may extend this meaning to refer to private benevolence as well. Every Christian will be a giver. But wealthy Christians will have a special responsibility in the matter. Hence The Message:
"If you're called to give aid to people in distress, keep your eyes open and be quick to respond."
And here's the Living Bible:
"If God has given you money, be generous in helping others with it."
In the end, all Christian giving is inspired by the cross. "Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!" (2 Cor. 9:15).