Service & Almsgiving
Generosity goes beyond money — give cheerfully from what you have, and use the gifts God gave you to serve others.
Jesus said “when you give” — not “if.” Generosity was always meant to be part of an ordinary Christian life.
Give what you have decided in your heart to give — not under pressure or obligation. Scripture speaks of the tithe as a biblical guideline, but the spirit of generosity matters more than any percentage.
Never give to the point of financial hardship. God does not ask you to become the one in need.
If money is genuinely tight, your time and attention are real gifts. Showing up for someone, listening well, serving without fanfare — these count.
There’s a natural order to it, too. What you have is given to you first to look after yourself, so you’re not a burden to others; then your own family; then those closest to you; and then, as you’re able, the wider body of Christ — an ever-widening circle. Looking after your own needs isn’t selfish. Carrying your own weight is itself a kind of love, because it frees others to help those who genuinely can’t.
Romans 12 names specific gifts God distributes among believers: prophecy, service, teaching, encouragement, generosity, leadership, mercy. You likely carry more than one — pay attention to what comes naturally, what others affirm in you, and where you find joy in serving.
Whatever your gift is, it isn’t only for you. Use it — don’t bury it out of fear or false modesty.
“Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them.”
— Romans 12:6
Don’t underestimate small, faithful acts. Many of the hospitals, shelters and schools the world now takes for granted began with one ordinary believer doing the same act of love again and again, until others came alongside. You may never start anything like that — but the love you practise faithfully, week after week, matters more than you know.
“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.”
— James 1:27
Recommended
Recommended channels, ministries and resources for service and giving will appear here as we find them.
We’re always looking for more ways to help people serve well. If you know a ministry doing good work in this space, let us know.