In the first episode of this season on Giving, Simon and Bex discuss some basic principles of the topic in response to the question, ‘Why Give?’

Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:

• Simon and Bex introduce the topic of Giving by considering some recent statistics about the extent to which people in the UK give to charity and the reasons that people give for donating. [02:15]
• Reference is made to what the Bible says about Giving, with particular attention being drawn to 2 Corinthians 9.6-11: ‘Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 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. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.' [06:04]
• Simon shares seven advantages of the practice of Giving that were identified by Mark Lloydbottom in his 2009 book, ‘The Money Devotional: 40 Bible Reflections on Money Wealth and Possessions’. [10:03]
• Time is spent considering whether Christians are under an obligation to give, what our motivations to give should be and how those factors might affect the way that we deal with requests to give. [11:48]
• Simon draws attention to the fascinating conclusions about using money strategically and generously that are included in the 2014 book, ‘Happy Money’ by Elizabeth Dunn and Michael Norton. [18:37]
• The positive effects that donating money can have on society are illustrated with reference to the principles outlined in the Old Testament books of Leviticus, Deuteronomy and Ruth (eg Deuteronomy 14.28-29) and by the contemporary benefits and importance of food banks. [22:16]
• Generosity as a theme is highlighted by reflecting on the positive nature of so many individuals who are generous and also by noting that the Bible encourages us (eg in Romans 12.6-8) to eagerly desire spiritual gifts, including the gift of Giving, with the exhortation being to give enthusiastically and generously. [24:11]
• In a change of tack, it is noted that there are practical ways in which our giving can be assisted or enhanced - including through tax relief, which will be covering fully in a future episode. [25:55]
• Finally, this introductory episode concludes with some thoughts about giving to our families and the kinds of questions that can arise in that context. [27:15]
• The next episode in this season will consider the question, ‘What should we give?’ [30:46]

Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast.

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