Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the Lord’s people there. For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the Lord’s people in Jerusalem. They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews’ spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings. Romans 15:25-27
“The purpose of the collection that Paul gives here is twofold, material and spiritual. It supplies the needs of the saints and abounds in thanksgivings offered to God. Their gift is not just a service for the poor, it is a service to God because of the thanksgiving that will redound to God’s glory. The recipients of their gifts cannot help but lift their voices in thanksgiving to God.”
David E. Garland in 2 Corinthians: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition of Holy Scripture (Volume 29) (The New American Commentary) 413.
When giving happens there are spiritual and material implications. Praise goes up to God and the giver credits the gift to their heavenly account as it goes to God. We don’t understand how it happens, but God says it happens. Simultaneously, real needs are met and real ministry happens.
So, the next time you think about giving to your church, GTP, or some other organization, remember this. There are material and spiritual implications. And you don’t become empty in giving, but enriched, now and for eternity. And God, not you, becomes the focus of all praise.