Do nothing from selfishness is an exhortation from Philippians 2: 3.  Yet it seems as if our selfishness is appealed to by those seeking contributions for their ministries. This especially happens regularly during those Christian television fundraising marathons.

Now this isn’t a bashing of any ministry that asks for money. God knows that money is a factor in running His kingdom here on earth. That’s why tithing and offerings are so important. I’m just questioning what sometimes feels like an undignified appeal.

We’re told that if a monetary “seed” is planted we can expect up to a hundredfold or more in harvest. Can this happen? Yeah, sure it can. But I think God blesses in this way when the giving is done joyfully without regard to being paid back.

I’m thinking about a principle Jesus gave to a dinner host. Jesus told him not to invite to his luncheons and dinners those with the means to invite him in return. Instead, the host was advised that there is a blessing in inviting those who cannot reciprocate.

And then we go on to learn that the blessing that God has in mind isn’t about money or any other worldly possession. It’s about the heavenly reward that Jesus gives to the righteous at the resurrection. (Luke 14: 12-14.)

Again, this isn’t to say that God doesn’t bless with material possessions. There are plenty examples in the Bible of that happening.

I just wish that financial appeals wouldn’t be made that says you got to give in order to get a financial increase. Sometimes it comes across as hucksterism. And sometimes it’s insulting, especially when scripture is used as part of the pitch.

Couldn’t the financial goal of the ministry simply be stated and donations asked for, along with prayer?

I’m thinking that our giving should be given just because we want to give.