I was preparing to do an exhortation on giving at Victory Makati when I found myself reflecting deeply on Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 16:2:

“On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.” (ESV)

At first glance, this seems like a simple instruction on logistics. But as I studied further, I realized this passage contains powerful principles about what it really means to give in a way that honors God. Giving is not just about money—it is about worship, discipline, and trust.

1. Regular Giving – “On the first day of every week”

Paul encouraged believers to give consistently, not sporadically. Giving is not meant to be occasional or only when convenient; it should be an intentional rhythm of our walk with God.

Application: Just as we plan our budgets for bills, groceries, or tuition, we should also plan for generosity. Regular giving disciplines our hearts to keep God first.

2. Inclusive Giving – “Each of you”

Notice that Paul did not say “only those who are wealthy” or “only leaders.” He said each of you. Giving is not about the size of our wallets but the posture of our hearts.

Application: Whether you’re a student setting aside allowance, an employee budgeting from your salary, or a retiree living on a pension, all of us have a role in advancing God’s Kingdom through our giving.

3. Proportional Giving – “As he may prosper”

God does not require equal amounts, but He does call us to give in proportion to how He has blessed us. For some, that means larger sums; for others, it may seem small. What matters is faith and faithfulness.

Application: What we give should reflect gratitude and trust. Remember the widow’s two copper coins (Mark 12:41–44)—small in the world’s eyes, but priceless in God’s sight.

4. Purposeful Giving – “So that there will be no collecting when I come”

Paul wanted the giving to be prepared in advance, not last-minute or pressured. This reveals a principle: generosity is meant to be thoughtful, not manipulated.

Application: True giving flows from a willing and cheerful heart. As 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Supporting Scriptures

Proverbs 3:9 – Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.

2 Corinthians 9:6–7 – God loves a cheerful giver.

Acts 20:35 – It is more blessed to give than to receive.

These passages remind us that giving is not a duty to check off but a declaration of worship and faith.

Living It Out Today

Give regularly: Make generosity a habit, not an afterthought.

Give inclusively: Everyone—no matter your stage in life—has a role in God’s mission.

Give proportionally: Let your giving reflect how God has prospered you.

Give purposefully: Prepare your heart and your gift before you give.

Encouragement

Friends, giving is not about the amount—it’s about the heart behind it. Every time we give, we are saying: “Lord, I trust You. You are my Provider. I belong to Your mission.”

So let us give faithfully, cheerfully, and purposefully. Because when we give, we not only bless others—we bring glory to God and participate in His Kingdom work here on earth.