Giving gifts is an important act in the Bible, representing love, generosity, and the desire to bless others. Whether it’s an offering to God, a gift given to others, or the spiritual gifts believers are given, the Bible teaches us about the significance of giving. It encourages us to give with a cheerful heart and highlights that the act of giving is not only about the gift itself but about the intention behind it. Below are 30 Bible verses about giving gifts, with a brief commentary for each.
Matthew 7:11
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”
In this verse, Jesus compares the generosity of earthly fathers to God’s infinite generosity. He assures us that if even imperfect human beings can give good gifts to their children, God, who is perfect, will give even greater gifts to those who ask. This passage underscores the abundance and goodness of God’s gifts, inviting believers to trust in His provision. For us, it encourages us to approach God in prayer, knowing that He delights in giving to His children.
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.'”
Paul reminds the believers that the act of giving is more blessed than receiving. This teaching from Jesus encourages generosity, especially towards the weak and those in need. It shifts the focus from selfishness to selflessness, teaching that true blessing comes from giving. This verse highlights the joy and fulfillment that comes when we give to others, not out of obligation but out of love, reflecting Christ’s generosity towards us.
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.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of the attitude behind giving. It calls believers to give from their hearts, without reluctance or pressure. God values the heart of the giver, and He delights in those who give cheerfully. It’s a reminder that giving should not be done grudgingly but with a spirit of joy and gratitude, reflecting God’s own generosity towards us. This encourages a mindset of generosity that is freely given, without any expectation of return.
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.”
Jesus teaches that giving opens the door to receiving abundantly. The metaphor of a good measure, pressed down, and running over shows that God’s blessings come in abundance when we give generously. This verse emphasizes the reciprocal nature of giving—what we give out will come back to us, often in greater measure. It reminds us that God rewards those who give with a generous and open heart, encouraging a mindset of abundant giving and trust in God’s provision.
Proverbs 11:25
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
This verse highlights the principle of reciprocity in generosity. Those who are generous to others will find that their own needs are met in return. By refreshing others with kindness, resources, or encouragement, a generous person is also refreshed. It teaches that generosity not only benefits those who receive but also brings blessings to those who give. This reflects the character of God, who generously blesses those who give with a heart full of compassion.
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”
The wise men’s gifts to Jesus—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—symbolize honor, worship, and reverence. Their offerings were expressions of their acknowledgment of Jesus as the King and Savior. This passage reminds us that the act of giving should be done with reverence and adoration, as the wise men did. Their example encourages us to give gifts that reflect our worship of God, acknowledging His worthiness of our best offerings.
1 Timothy 6:18
“Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.”
Paul encourages Timothy to instruct the rich in good deeds and generosity. This passage calls for believers to use their resources, not for self-indulgence, but to bless others. Generosity is not only about material wealth but about sharing what we have, including time, talents, and love. It teaches that true richness comes from doing good for others and being willing to share with those in need. This reflects God’s heart of generosity, inviting us to be generous in every area of our lives.
Romans 12:13
“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
Paul encourages believers to share generously with fellow Christians who are in need. The act of sharing goes beyond material goods; it involves hospitality, kindness, and love. This passage reminds us that giving is not just about physical gifts but also about offering support and care to those in need. By practicing hospitality, we extend the love of Christ to others, demonstrating that giving is about creating community and reflecting God’s love.
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
Peter teaches that every believer has been given gifts by God, and these gifts should be used to serve others. Whether spiritual gifts, talents, or material resources, God calls us to be faithful stewards, using what we’ve received for His glory and the benefit of others. This verse emphasizes that giving is not only about material possessions but also about using our abilities to serve and bless others. It reminds us that all we have is entrusted to us by God.
Proverbs 3:9
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.”
This verse highlights the importance of honoring God with our wealth. The firstfruits were the best and the first portion of the harvest, symbolizing that God deserves our best offerings. Giving our firstfruits represents putting God first in our finances and acknowledging that all we have comes from Him. This principle encourages believers to prioritize God in all areas, including how we use our resources, as an act of worship and honor toward Him.
2 Corinthians 8:7
“But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.”
Paul encourages the Corinthians to excel in the grace of giving, just as they excel in other areas of faith. Giving is described as a grace—an act of God’s favor that we are called to practice generously. This verse challenges us to strive for excellence in all aspects of our spiritual lives, including generosity. It teaches that giving is not just a duty but a grace that should be cultivated and reflected in the lives of believers.
Luke 6:30
“Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.”
Jesus teaches radical generosity, encouraging His followers to give freely without expectation of return. This verse challenges the notion of holding tightly to our possessions and encourages a heart of selflessness. Giving to everyone who asks and not demanding back what is taken reflects a deep trust in God’s provision. It teaches that our generosity should not be contingent upon whether we receive anything in return, but should reflect the generosity God has shown us.
Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”
This verse teaches that acts of kindness to the poor are not only acts of charity but are as if done for the Lord Himself. Giving to the poor is a form of lending to God, and He promises to reward such generosity. It emphasizes that giving to those in need is a reflection of God’s heart for the marginalized and that He will bless and reward those who give with a compassionate heart.
1 Corinthians 16:2
“On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.”
Paul encourages the Corinthians to give regularly, in proportion to their income, and to set aside money for the work of the church. This verse establishes the principle of planned, consistent giving, demonstrating that generosity should be intentional. Giving in accordance with one’s income reflects a commitment to support God’s work, showing that our generosity should be in line with our resources, done thoughtfully and regularly.
Hebrews 13:16
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of both doing good and sharing with others. God is pleased with acts of kindness and generosity, which are seen as sacrifices that honor Him. Giving is not just about financial gifts, but also about offering our time, resources, and love to those in need. The verse reminds us that God values acts of generosity and care as an integral part of our worship and obedience to Him.
Proverbs 11:24
“One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.”
This verse highlights the paradox of generosity: the more one gives freely, the more one ultimately gains. It contrasts the generous person, who experiences abundance, with the one who hoards, leading to scarcity. It teaches that generosity leads to blessings and spiritual growth, while greed or selfishness ultimately brings hardship. This reinforces the principle that God blesses those who give with an open hand and a generous heart.
Matthew 10:42
“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”
Jesus teaches that even small acts of kindness, like giving a cup of cold water, have eternal significance when done in His name. This verse shows that God values every act of generosity, no matter how seemingly insignificant. The reward for giving, no matter the size, is guaranteed, as long as it is done with the right heart toward His disciples. It reminds us that giving is not about the gift’s size but the love and intention behind it.
1 John 3:17
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?”
This verse challenges us to act on our faith by showing compassion to those in need. If we have the means to help others and fail to do so, it calls into question our love for God. Generosity is a direct reflection of God’s love in our hearts. This passage teaches that true love for God is not just about words, but about action—particularly in caring for those who are less fortunate.
Luke 12:33
“Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys.”
Jesus calls His followers to radically rethink their attachment to material possessions. He urges them to give to the poor, invest in eternal treasures, and prioritize heavenly rewards over earthly wealth. This verse challenges believers to focus on what truly lasts—spiritual treasures rather than material ones. Giving to the poor is one way to store up treasures in heaven, reflecting God’s heart for the marginalized and encouraging us to invest in eternal values.
Deuteronomy 15:10
“Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.”
This verse teaches that generosity should be done without reluctance or resentment. Giving with a cheerful heart opens the door to God’s blessings, and He promises to bless the work of those who give generously. It reinforces the idea that the attitude behind our giving is as important as the gift itself. When we give without grumbling, God delights in our generosity and blesses us abundantly, not just in material ways but in every area of life.
Matthew 5:42
“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”
Jesus teaches us to be generous and willing to help those in need, especially when they ask for it. This verse emphasizes the importance of being open-handed and kind to others, even when it requires personal sacrifice. It challenges us to practice selflessness, reflecting God’s character, who is always generous and willing to give. This teaching highlights that generosity should not be conditional, but rooted in a heart that desires to bless others without expectation of return.
Proverbs 22:9
“The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.”
This verse highlights the reciprocal blessing that comes with generosity. Those who share with the poor are promised blessings in return. The act of giving to others reflects God’s love, and He promises to bless those who give. This verse teaches that generosity is not just a charitable act, but a lifestyle that invites God’s favor and provision. It encourages us to adopt a generous heart, knowing that our acts of kindness have eternal rewards.
Luke 6:30
“Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.”
This radical teaching from Jesus calls for a heart of generosity that goes beyond what is expected. The idea of giving to everyone who asks and not demanding back what is taken encourages a spirit of grace and selflessness. Jesus challenges us to reflect God’s unconditional generosity, showing love to others without expecting anything in return. This passage teaches that true giving requires a generous and unselfish heart, one that seeks to bless others rather than protect personal interests.
Proverbs 28:27
“Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.”
This verse contrasts those who generously give to the poor with those who ignore their needs. It promises that those who give to the poor will have their needs met, while those who turn a blind eye to others’ suffering will face negative consequences. It reinforces the biblical principle that generosity is blessed by God. Giving to the poor is not only a moral obligation but a way of aligning ourselves with God’s heart, which cares deeply for the marginalized.
2 Corinthians 9:11
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”
Paul teaches that God enriches believers so that they can be generous on every occasion. This verse shows that God blesses us with resources not just for personal gain but so that we can bless others. Generosity is a way to reflect God’s character and bring glory to Him. As we give, others are moved to thank God, which multiplies the impact of our generosity. This passage encourages believers to live a life of continual generosity, seeing it as an opportunity to glorify God.
Luke 3:11
“John answered, ‘Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.'”
John the Baptist teaches about the practical application of generosity. He calls people to share what they have, not just out of abundance but as an act of justice and love. This verse challenges us to be mindful of the needs around us and to act generously. Giving is not just about what we have left over, but about sharing from our own resources to help those in need. This principle encourages a lifestyle of generosity and compassion toward others.
2 Corinthians 8:9
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.”
This verse highlights the ultimate example of giving—Jesus, who was rich but became poor for our sake. His self-sacrifice is the model for how we are to give. Just as Jesus gave everything for us, we are called to share with others, especially those in need. This verse teaches that generosity is not about the size of the gift but the willingness to sacrifice and give out of love for others, reflecting Christ’s humility and grace.
Deuteronomy 16:17
“Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you.”
This verse calls for offerings that reflect the way God has blessed each individual. Giving is meant to be proportional to the blessings we have received, highlighting the principle of generosity based on gratitude. It encourages believers to consider how God has provided for them and to give accordingly. This passage teaches that our giving should reflect both our recognition of God’s blessings and our willingness to bless others in return.
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'”
In this passage, Jesus teaches that acts of kindness and generosity toward others are viewed by God as acts done unto Him. When we give to those in need, we are actually serving Christ Himself. This challenges us to see the face of Christ in those we help, motivating us to give selflessly. It teaches that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has eternal significance when done in the name of Jesus.
Proverbs 3:27
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.”
This verse stresses the importance of acting when we have the means to help others. Generosity is not just about giving when it is convenient, but when we have the ability to do so. It reminds us that withholding from those who are due help is not an option when we are in a position to give. The verse calls us to recognize our responsibility to share with others when we have the opportunity and resources to do so.
Luke 6:30
“Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.”
Jesus teaches radical generosity in this verse, urging believers to give freely to anyone who asks and not to demand back what is taken from them. This verse challenges us to give without holding on to our possessions tightly and to show generosity even in the face of injustice. It reflects the unconditional love of God, which gives freely without expectation of return, encouraging us to embody this same selflessness in our own lives.
1 Timothy 6:18
“Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.”
Paul instructs Timothy to encourage wealthy believers to be generous and willing to share their resources. This verse emphasizes that true richness is not found in material wealth but in good deeds and generosity. The call to be generous with our resources is a reminder that we are stewards of God’s blessings, and we are to use what we have to bless others. Generosity is a reflection of God’s heart and a way to serve Him by helping those in need.
Proverbs 14:31
“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.”
This verse connects how we treat the poor and needy with our relationship with God. Oppressing the poor is seen as showing contempt for God, while being kind to them is an act of honoring God. Generosity towards the needy is a way to reflect God’s heart for justice and mercy. It teaches us that our giving is a direct reflection of our reverence for God, and showing kindness to others is a way to honor Him.
1 Corinthians 9:11
“If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you?”
Paul addresses the idea that those who minister spiritually have the right to receive material support. This verse speaks to the principle of giving in support of those who serve in ministry, showing that generosity helps sustain the work of God’s kingdom. It reminds believers that giving is not only about helping the poor but also about supporting those who teach and share the gospel, enabling them to continue their work. Generosity in this sense fosters the growth of God’s kingdom.
Hebrews 13:16
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
This verse encourages believers to continue doing good and sharing with others, especially those in need. It highlights that generosity is not just about giving; it is a sacrifice that pleases God. Acts of kindness and sharing reflect a Christ-like heart, and this verse underscores that God delights in these sacrifices. It teaches that generosity, though sacrificial, brings joy to God and is an expression of our love and obedience to Him.
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 acknowledges the generous gifts sent by the Philippians, calling them a fragrant offering to God. This passage illustrates that gifts given in service to others are pleasing to God when they are given with the right heart. The generosity of the Philippians was not just a material act, but a spiritual offering that honored God. This teaches us that our acts of giving are not just to meet physical needs but to honor God as an act of worship.
Romans 12:8
“If it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”
This verse speaks to the spiritual gifts given to believers, urging them to use them generously. Specifically, Paul encourages those with the gift of giving to do so with generosity. Whether it is financial support, encouragement, or mercy, the message is clear: giving should be done with a cheerful and generous spirit. This reflects the heart of God, who gives abundantly and joyfully, and it encourages us to mirror this in our own acts of service and generosity.
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.”
In this verse, God invites His people to bring their tithes, promising to bless them abundantly in return. The act of giving to God’s house, specifically the tithe, is seen as an act of trust and obedience. God promises to pour out blessings in return, emphasizing the principle that generosity leads to divine provision. This encourages believers to give faithfully and trust that God will provide for their needs as they honor Him with their resources.
Luke 11:41
“But now as for what is inside you—be generous to the poor, and everything will be clean for you.”
In this verse, Jesus teaches that true generosity comes from the heart. While outward acts may appear righteous, it is the inward generosity toward the poor that truly reflects a pure heart. Jesus challenges His listeners to focus on generosity as an expression of inner purity, showing that the heart behind the gift is just as important as the gift itself. This encourages believers to give from a sincere and compassionate heart, not just to fulfill an obligation.
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