In a recent article entitled “Giving vs. Investing,” National Christian Foundation president David Wills asks, "If you supported a missionary to China who reported only 10 people saved in 25 years, would you consider that a good investment?"

In hindsight, Wills reports, we can now see that the work of this missionary couple laid the foundation for millions of Chinese people coming to Christ. But would that couple have received much support if they were in the mission field today, with the increased emphasis on results and accountability?

The recent focus on strategic philanthropy, Wills observes, tends to equate giving with investing. And there are some similarities because giving, like investing, involves our money. Consequently, we should be careful to give to organizations that will use our gifts wisely or provide opportunities to leverage our giving dollars for maximum kingdom impact.

But there are important differences, too. When we invest, we are using disposable income in hopes of generating a large, measurable return. But giving, Wills contends, is so much more. "Giving is an act of worship - a way we exercise faith in the One we adore."

Giving is a matter of the heart, not a matter of leverage or measurable results. Jesus illustrated this important principle by highlighting the widow putting the two small coins in the Temple treasury. Although most of us would probably not describe her gift as a great investment, Jesus looked beyond the money and potential return on investment, and saw a giving heart, willing to give everything to the One who gave everything for us.

Source: "Giving vs. Investing" by David H. Wills in “The Gathering” - a publication of The National Christian Foundation.

Want to learn God’s eternal investment strategies? Ask for a FREE copy of “God’s Investment Strategies” by simply contacting Kevin Wassenaar from Central Minnesota Christian School at (320) 978-8700 or kevinw@willmarnet.com