The Journey of a Generous Business Leader: Part II

In this series, we’re discussing five phases many business leaders experience on their journey to becoming generous. The second phase is “Transactional Giving.”

I’ve reviewed many different studies on giving. The average Christian typically gives about 2.5% of their income to charity.

When we buy a service, we typically pay an amount equivalent to the value received. Likewise, many people who attend church only give 2-3% for the entertainment value they perceive they received.

The “Transactional” giver still believes the money is theirs, not God’s.

Malachi 3:8 asks, “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ In tithes and offerings.”

God desires us to recognize that everything we have is His. Only paying to be entertained is robbing God

Questions For Reflections

• Why do you tithe? What is the rationale you hold or were taught? What scriptures do you have to support this stance? If you are unsure, consider the following passages. Proverbs 3:9-10, 2 Chronicles 31:4-5 and Mark 12: 41-44.
• Chances are you have been in a transactional relationship in the past, particularly in business. Were you ever very close to that person? Are you treating God like a business partner, only approaching him when you need something?