Ellen White’s writings emphasize that giving to God is a continual, grateful response to His blessings and a practical demonstration of our love and stewardship. Here are the key points from her teachings:
1. Everything we have—our time, talents, and possessions—are blessings from God, entrusted to us. We should acknowledge His goodness not only in words but also through our gifts and offerings (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 187.4).
2. God calls us to give from what He has entrusted to us, especially to support His work in places of need. Giving is a practical way to show love for God and our neighbor (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 56.2).
3. The highest praise we can give God is to become consecrated channels for His work, offering our whole heart, intellect, and means, since all are His by creation and redemption (Acts of the Apostles, p. 566.1).
4. God requires us to return tithes and offerings as acts of humble obedience and gratitude. Withholding more than is appropriate leads to spiritual poverty, while faithful giving brings God’s blessing (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 267).
5. All our possessions belong to the Lord, and we are accountable for how we use them. Every penny spent reveals whether we love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 351).
6. God’s requirements come first. We should set aside His portion before using our income for other needs. When we return what He claims, the remainder is blessed; withholding brings a curse (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 477.1).
7. God asks for offerings not because He needs them, but to give us the opportunity to exercise self-denial, love, and sympathy, and to acknowledge His sovereignty (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 476.3).
8. God’s blessings—such as sunshine, rain, health, and the ability to earn—are given so we can give back in tithes and offerings, supporting His work and showing gratitude (Acts of the Apostles, p. 75.1; Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 150.1).
9. All that we receive is still God’s. Our giving tests our love and appreciation for Him. Whether wealth or intellect, all should be willingly offered to God (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 753.1).
10. The advancement of the gospel depends on the labors and gifts of God’s people. The tithe (a tenth) is God’s claim, and voluntary offerings are encouraged. Vows made to God regarding giving are binding (Acts of the Apostles, p. 74.2).
In summary, Ellen White teaches that giving to God is an ongoing, grateful response to His blessings, a test of our love and stewardship, and a practical means of supporting His work on earth. All we have belongs to Him, and faithful giving brings His blessing.
References:
- Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets (PP)
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church (4T, 5T, 7T)
- Ellen G. White, Acts of the Apostles (AA)
- Ellen G. White, Christ’s Object Lessons (COL)
If you’d like more details on a specific aspect of giving—such as tithes, offerings, or stewardship—please let me know!