In the Bible, “sparingly” refers to giving or acting with restraint or limited quantity. It often relates to the principle that those who give sparingly will also reap sparingly, as expressed in 2 Corinthians 9:6, emphasizing the importance of generous giving.
Scripture
24 One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.
25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered.
Sparingly in the Bible Meaning
The concept of “sparingly” in the Bible carries a significant theological and ethical weight, particularly in terms of giving and generosity. This idea is prominently articulated in 2 Corinthians 9:6, which states, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” This verse illustrates a fundamental principle of reciprocity in the spiritual economy: that the manner and spirit with which one gives can directly affect the blessings received in return. The notion extends beyond mere financial contributions; it encompasses everything from time and love to compassion and mercy. Thus, the call is not merely to give of our excess, but to engage in a lifestyle of abundance, reflecting the generous nature of God.
Furthermore, this principle resonates throughout other scriptural texts, such as Proverbs 11:24-25, which states, “One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This illustrates the paradoxical nature of generosity—that those who hold tightly to their resources may find themselves lacking, while those who open their hearts and hands discover a deeper well of blessings. Therefore, the broader meaning of acting “sparingly” is not limited to the act of giving alone, but serves as a reminder of the importance of abundance in attitudes, actions, and relationships, reflecting the heart of a God who gives extravagantly to His creation.
The theme of generosity and its inverse, sparing behavior, is woven throughout the biblical narrative, revealing the profound implications of how one chooses to share their resources and gifts. For instance, in the story of the widow’s mite (Mark 12:41-44), Jesus commends a poor widow who, despite her limited means, offers two small coins to the temple treasury. His praise contrasts her sacrificial giving against the larger contributions of the wealthy, highlighting that the measurement of generosity lies not in the amount but in the spirit and sacrifice behind it. Her offering serves as a powerful lesson in how the Kingdom of God values intentionality over mere abundance, thereby admonishing believers to evaluate their own hearts when considering their contributions.
Additionally, in the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:1-4), the act of giving is accompanied by a caution against performing charitable acts for public approval. Here, the emphasis is placed on the sincerity of one’s heart and the motive behind the gift. The call to give discreetly—a theme encapsulated in the phrase “not letting your left hand know what your right hand is doing”—underscores that sparing actions, when driven by pride or a desire for recognition, miss the essence of what true generosity should exemplify. In this context, to give sparingly can reflect not just a lack of material resources but also a limitation of the heart, calling individuals to examine their willingness to embody the selfless nature of Christ in their interactions with others. Together, these themes challenge believers to embody a spirit of abundance in all aspects of life, transforming not only their giving practices but also their approach to service and love within their communities.
Generosity and Abundance
In the biblical context, the term “sparingly” often contrasts with the concept of generosity. When individuals give or act sparingly, it reflects a mindset of limitation and caution, which can hinder the flow of blessings and abundance in their lives. The Bible encourages believers to embrace a spirit of generosity, suggesting that when one gives freely and abundantly, they open themselves up to receive more in return. This principle highlights the importance of a giving heart and the belief that God rewards those who are willing to share their resources with others.
Faith and Trust in God
Another broader meaning of “sparingly” relates to the themes of faith and trust in God. When people act sparingly, it can indicate a lack of faith in God’s provision and care. The Bible teaches that God is a provider who meets the needs of His people, and acting sparingly may stem from fear or doubt about whether there will be enough. Conversely, living with a mindset of abundance and trust in God’s promises encourages believers to step out in faith, knowing that their needs will be met as they give and serve others.
The Principle of Sowing and Reaping
The concept of “sparingly” also ties into the principle of sowing and reaping, which is a recurring theme in biblical teachings. When one sows sparingly, the harvest is likely to be limited. This principle serves as a reminder that the effort and resources one invests in various aspects of life—be it relationships, service, or financial giving—will directly influence the outcomes they experience. By understanding this principle, believers are encouraged to invest generously in their endeavors, trusting that their contributions will yield a fruitful return.
How to Cultivate Generosity for a Better Christian Life
Cultivating generosity is a beautiful way to deepen your Christian faith and reflect Christ’s love in the world. Start by recognizing that everything you have is a gift from God, and this perspective can transform how you view your resources—time, talents, and treasures. Begin small; perhaps set aside a portion of your income for charitable giving or volunteer your time at a local shelter. As you practice generosity, let it flow from a heart of gratitude rather than obligation. Remember, it’s not just about the act of giving, but the spirit behind it. Pray for a heart that desires to serve others, and look for opportunities to bless those around you, whether through kind words, acts of service, or financial support. As you embrace this lifestyle, you’ll find that generosity not only enriches the lives of others but also fills your own heart with joy and purpose, drawing you closer to the heart of God.
Bible References to Sparingly in Scripture:
2 Corinthians 9:6-8: 6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
Galatians 6:7-9: 7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.
8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
Luke 6:38: 38 Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.
Proverbs 22:9: 9 Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.
Malachi 3:8-10: 8 Will man rob God? Yet you are robbing me. But you say, ‘How have we robbed you?’ In your tithes and contributions.
9 You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing me, the whole nation of you.
10 Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.
Matthew 6:19-21: 19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal,
20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
1 Timothy 6:17-19: 17 As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,
19 storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.
Proverbs 3:9-10: 9 Honor the Lord with your wealth
and with the firstfruits of all your produce;
10 then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.
Acts 20:35: In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Philippians 4:15-19: 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.
16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.
17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.
18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.
19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
2 Corinthians 8:1-5: 1 We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia,
2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.
3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord,
4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints—
5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.
Deuteronomy 15:7-11: 7 If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother,
8 but you shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be.
9 Take care lest there be an unworthy thought in your heart and you say, ‘The seventh year, the year of release is near,’ and your eye look grudgingly on your poor brother, and you give him nothing, and he cry to the Lord against you, and you be guilty of sin.
10 You shall give to him freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake.
11 For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, ‘You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.’
Mark 12:41-44: 41 And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums.
42 And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny.
43 And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box.
44 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
1 Chronicles 29:14-17: 14 “But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you.”
15 For we are strangers before you and sojourners, as all our fathers were. Our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding.
16 O Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a house for your holy name comes from your hand and is all your own.
17 I know, my God, that you test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness. In the uprightness of my heart I have freely offered all these things, and now I have seen your people, who are present here, offering freely and joyously to you.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.