The Joy of Giving

Small Group Discussion Guide

The Joy of Giving
By Dr. Greg Hinnant

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Scripture Focus

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

Matthew 6:21
“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Additional Scriptures:
•Genesis 14:20
•Psalm 24:1
•1 Corinthians 6:19–20
•Romans 8:6
•Philippians 2:5
•Matthew 6:2–4
•Mark 6:34
•Acts 11:28–30
•Acts 6:4
•Luke 6:38
•Philippians 4:19
•Psalm 37:25
•Revelation 22:12

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Opening Question (Icebreaker)
1.What is one of the most meaningful gifts someone has ever given you? Why did it impact you?
2.When you think about generosity, what words or emotions come to mind?

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Devotional Summary

Giving is not a human tradition—it is a divine principle established by God. From the beginning of Scripture, God’s people expressed their faith through generosity.

One of the earliest examples appears in Genesis 14:20, when Abraham gave a tenth of his victory spoils to Melchizedek, the priest of God Most High. This act happened before the Law, showing that giving is rooted in faith and gratitude rather than religious obligation.

The Bible reminds us that everything belongs to God. Psalm 24:1 declares that the earth and everything in it belong to the Lord. Even our own lives were purchased through Christ’s sacrifice (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). Because of this, we are not owners but stewards—entrusted with resources that ultimately belong to Him.

Giving is not primarily about the amount; it is about the attitude of the heart. Jesus taught that generosity should be practiced with humility and sincerity rather than for recognition (Matthew 6:2–4). When we give with pure motives, God sees and honors that obedience.

The motive behind giving is love—love for God, love for others, and love for those who have not yet heard the Gospel. Jesus demonstrated this compassion when He fed the multitudes (Mark 6:34).

The purpose of giving includes:
•Supporting places of worship and ministry (Exodus 25–36)
•Helping believers in times of crisis (Acts 11:28–30)
•Allowing spiritual leaders to focus on prayer and the Word (Acts 6:4)

Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of generosity. He gave His time, compassion, strength, and ultimately His life for our salvation (Matthew 20:28).

Scripture also promises that God cares for those who trust Him in their giving. Philippians 4:19 assures us that God will supply our needs. Luke 6:38 teaches that generosity often leads to multiplied blessing—not as manipulation, but as part of God’s spiritual order.

Ultimately, our generosity contributes to our eternal legacy. Christ promises that He will return with rewards for faithful obedience (Revelation 22:12).

Giving is not loss—it is participation in God’s Kingdom work and an opportunity to experience the joy Jesus described.

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Discussion Questions
1.Acts 20:35 says it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Why do you think giving often brings greater joy than receiving?
2.The devotional emphasizes that everything belongs to God.
How does this perspective change the way we view our money and possessions?
3.Abraham gave to Melchizedek before the Law existed.
What does this reveal about the connection between faith and generosity?
4.Matthew 6:21 says our hearts follow our treasure.
How can our spending habits reveal what we truly value?
5.Jesus taught that giving should be done quietly and humbly (Matthew 6:2–4).
Why is it important to guard our motives when giving?
6.The devotional lists several purposes of giving.
Which of these purposes resonates most strongly with you?
7.Many people struggle with fear about finances.
How can trusting God as our Provider help us become more generous?

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Practical Application

Encourage each group member to reflect on their stewardship this week.

Consider these questions:
•Have I recognized that everything I have belongs to God?
•Is my giving intentional and consistent, or only occasional?
•Do my financial choices reflect faith in God or dependence on money?
•Is there a step of generosity God is prompting me to take?

Possible action steps this week:
•Pray about a specific opportunity to give.
•Support someone in need.
•Invest in ministry or missions.
•Practice generosity with time, encouragement, or resources.

Generosity is not only financial—it is a lifestyle of open-handed trust in God.

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Closing Prayer

Lord,
Thank You for the greatest gift of all—Jesus Christ. Everything I have comes from You. Teach me to be a faithful steward of the resources You have entrusted to me. Remove fear, greed, and hesitation from my heart. Help me give with faith, humility, and joy. May my generosity honor You, bless others, and advance Your Kingdom.

In Jesus’ name, Amen. ?