Your desire for financial security can discourage you from giving. Why? Because each dollar you give away feels like it’s no longer available for your protection. But the opposite is true. Our sense of freedom and security actually increases when we give, because giving is a declaration that our security rests someplace other than the bank or our own earning capacity. Giving is an act of confidence in God, and it’s the only way to overcome financial insecurity. Think of all the things in life over which we have little or no control. Illness. Accidents. Job losses. Economic conditions. No wonder we’re insecure! The Bible says, “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” (Proverbs 11:24-25 NIV). To the rational mind it sounds counterintuitive, but to the kingdom mind it makes good sense. Paul wrote, “A few seeds make a small harvest, but a lot of seeds make a big harvest. Each of you must make up your own mind about how much to give. But don’t feel sorry that you must give and don’t feel…you are forced to give. God loves people who love to give. God can bless you with everything you need, and you will always have more than enough to do all kinds of good things for others” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8 CEV). In your hand, a dollar will never be worth more than a dollar. But when you sow it into God’s kingdom, it begins a harvest you can reap when you have a need. Giving is truly the key to financial security.