Have you ever noticed how our prayers often center around what we want God to give us? We ask for blessings, provision, and breakthroughs, but rarely do we ask God to transform us into the people He wants us to be.
This month's theme of "uncommon giving" challenges us to shift our perspective from constantly asking God to "give me" to humbly requesting "make me."
The Prodigal Son's Journey: From "Give Me" to "Make Me"
In Luke 15:11-19, Jesus tells the story of the prodigal son. This young man approached his father saying, "Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me." After receiving his inheritance, he journeyed to a far country and wasted his possessions with prodigal (wasteful) living.
When he had spent everything and found himself feeding pigs, the Bible says "he came to himself" - he came to his senses. His prayer changed dramatically. Instead of "give me," he said, "Father, make me like one of your hired servants."
This shift represents a profound transformation in his thinking:
- First request: "Give me" (self-centered)
- Second request: "Make me" (transformation-centered)
Why Do We Struggle to Move Beyond "Give Me" Prayers?
Most of our prayers center around what we want God to give us. We pray for blessings, provision, and breakthroughs. But sustainable spiritual growth happens when we move from "give me" to "make me."
Jesus said, "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men." He didn't say, "Follow me and I'll give you everything you want." The call is for Him to make us into something new, not just to give us what we desire.
Moving From Self-Centered to Christ-Centered
For God to make us into uncommon givers, we must move away from being self-centered. A self-centered person:
- Only thinks about themselves
- Tries to fit God into their plans rather than submitting to His will
- Struggles to surrender control
The power of a Christian life lies in surrender - becoming Christ-centered rather than self-centered. When we enthrone Christ instead of ourselves, He can begin the transformation process.
How Do We Overcome the Enemy to Become Uncommon Givers?
Revelation 12:10-11 reveals three elements needed for victory:
- "By the blood of the Lamb" - Christ's sacrifice provides redemption and forgiveness
- "By the word of their testimony" - Your transformed life becomes a weapon against the enemy
- "They did not love their lives unto death" - Self-denial and commitment even in the face of persecution
Many Christians understand the power of the blood but miss the other two elements. Your changed life is a powerful testimony. When you were once stingy but become generous, that transformation overcomes the enemy.
What Does Uncommon Giving Look Like?
Uncommon giving refers to giving that is unusual, exceptional, and beyond the normal standard. It's radical generosity that flows from a transformed heart.
Unfortunately, many Christians struggle with giving:
- Some pretend to give but don't
- Others give only when they feel like it
- Many give the leftovers rather than their best
God is not moved by your need; He is moved by your obedience to His word. If you want to become an uncommon giver, start by honoring God with His money (remember, it's not yours to begin with).
Practical Steps to Becoming an Uncommon Giver
- Start by tithing consistently - not just occasionally
- Give offerings that reflect how you value God
- Sow seeds into God's kingdom
- Give thanksgiving offerings
Remember what Jesus said: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." When you give, you initiate multiple ways of receiving back. But the blessing starts with giving.
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to move from "give me" to "make me" in your prayer life. Instead of asking God for things, ask Him to transform you into the person He wants you to be - particularly in the area of giving.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Am I more focused on what God can give me than how He can transform me?
- In what areas of my life am I still self-centered rather than Christ-centered?
- What is one practical step I can take this week to become more generous?
- Have I been consistent in my giving (tithes, offerings) or do I give only when it's convenient?
Remember, God is not looking for people who simply want His blessings; He's looking for people who are willing to be transformed into His image. When you pray "Lord, make me an uncommon giver," you're inviting Him to do a deep work in your heart that will impact not just your finances but your entire life.
