Giving is defined as making a present of something to someone. Of providing something to another of value to the person for the benefit of another. This is just a summary of giving, which can be used in many contexts.
Brief Explanation:
As you can readily see from the definition above, the word giving has many meanings, and can be used in many contexts. Many people come to counseling due to, in their estimation, giving too much, as in the case of a co-dependent. Of course, they cannot see that their giving is to get, not truly as altruistic as they assume. Many are not used to giving at all, but to receiving; love, forgiveness, support, etc. They have never learned to actually give to benefit others; one of the reasons for their condition. Giving was an important issue to Jesus, as he stated that the condition of the heart/mind was measured by one’s generosity (where your treasure is, i.e., time, talent, and treasure, there is your heart also). Often Christians can be the least giving of all cultural groups, and knowing the giving nature of a person can be important in both diagnosing their problem and helping them overcome.
The Word of God:
Proverbs 11:25
“The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered.”
Proverbs 21:26
“All day long he is craving, while the righteous gives and does not hold back.”
Proverbs 28:27
“He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes will have many curses.”
Matthew 10:8
“…Freely you received, freely give.”
Matthew 10:42
“And whoever in the name of disciple gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water to drink, truly I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.”
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
