Giving is more than a financial act; it is a spiritual grace. The Apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthian church, is a reminder that; just as we are growing in many areas of our Christian life, we should also grow—excel—in giving. But what does it mean to excel in giving, and how can believers cultivate this grace in their lives?

1. UNDERSTAND GIVING AS WORSHIP
Giving is an act of worship that acknowledges God as our ultimate source. It is a response to His goodness and provision. Proverbs 3:9-10 (NIV) says "Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine." When we give our resources, time, and talents, we’re offering back a portion of what God has entrusted to us as good stewards.

2. GIVE WILLINGLY AND CHEERFULLY
The attitude behind our giving matters as much as the gift itself. God is not pleased with reluctant or pressured giving but delights in a heart that gives freely. Just as Apostle Paul said to the Corinthians church in 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV) "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." Excel in giving by cultivating joy in your generosity. Ask God to align your heart with His so that giving becomes a joyful response rather than an obligation.

3. BE SACRIFICIAL, NOT SUPERFICIAL
To excel in giving means sometimes going beyond convenience. True generosity often requires sacrifice. A case-study is the woman who gave two small copper coins, Mark 12:41–43 (NIV) "Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins… Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, 'Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.”
Her gift stood out not because of its monetary value, but because of the sacrifice it represented. To excel in the grace of giving is to give in ways that reflect deep trust in God.

4. TRUST GOD’S PROVISION
Generosity is fueled by faith. When we trust God as our Provider, we’re freed from fear and selfishness. Philippians 4:19 (NIV) says "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." Those who give with open hands will often experience God’s faithfulness in unexpected ways.

5. MAKE GIVING A LIFESTYLE
Excelling in giving isn’t a one-time event—it’s a way of life. It involves being sensitive to the needs of others and ready to respond as the Holy Spirit leads. Hebrews 13:16 (NIV) says "Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." Look for opportunities daily—whether big or small—to be a blessing.

Excelling in the grace of giving isn't reserved for the wealthy—it’s for every believer who desires to reflect God’s generous heart. As we grow in faith, love, and knowledge, let us also grow in generosity. Giving is not just something we do; it’s who we are as followers of Christ. And when we give, we mirror the greatest Giver of all; God who gave us His only begotten Son (John 3:16).

As you embrace the call to excel in the grace of giving, here lies a special opportunity to put your faith into daily action. Starting Sunday, 1st June 2025, we begin the 50 Days of Surplus Grace – Season 3 in preparation for the July Healing Streams Live Healing Services with Pastor Chris. This is your moment to practice consistent generosity and sow purposefully into the lives of millions who will receive healing, hope, and salvation during this global outreach.
Don’t just give—excel in giving as surplus grace is yours to walk in and minister through. Let the giving begin!