How Much Have I Given? A Reflection on Faith, Generosity, and Marketplace Ministry

When you first hear the question, "How much have I given?" what comes to mind? Is it money, something of value, or perhaps something else entirely? We often associate giving with material wealth, but the deeper meaning of this question invites us to consider not just what we give, but where our heart is.

As Matthew 6:21 (NKJV) reminds us, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." What God seeks from us is not just our resources but a heart that is fully devoted to Him. This is why authentic, heart-level relationship is what God desires most from each of us.

In 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NKJV), the Bible encourages us to give not out of obligation or reluctance but from a place of joy: “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” This cheerful spirit of giving reflects the nature of God Himself, who gave everything for us.

Another powerful scripture on giving is found in Acts 20:35 (NKJV), where the apostle Paul says, “I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” In other words, true fulfillment comes not from what we accumulate, but from what we give to others.

The Story of Steve Dulin: A Life Transformed by Giving

One story that powerfully illustrates the impact of generous giving is that of Steve Dulin, the founder of Milestone Construction, Inc., and MasterPlan Business Ministries. In 2005, Steve made a radical decision to give 111% of his income to various ministries aimed at building the Kingdom of God. While this may sound extraordinary, it was a decision rooted in obedience to God's call.

Steve’s story is not just about financial giving but about aligning his life with God’s purposes. By 2006, his business had doubled, and his personal life was flourishing. The key takeaway from Steve’s journey is that God may ask us to give in ways that are beyond our understanding, whether that be through our time, talents, or treasures. What is God asking you to give?

God Wants to Use Your Talents

In Exodus 35:30-35, we read about two men, Bezalel and Oholiab, whom God chose to lead the construction of the Tabernacle. God filled them with His Spirit, giving them skill, ability, and knowledge in various crafts, as well as the ability to teach others. This passage reminds us that God can use anyone, from the business owner to the teacher or craftsman. He knows the talents He has given you, and He wants to use them for His Kingdom.

Perhaps God is asking you to use your unique gifts to serve others. Whether you are a teacher, a craftsman, a business owner, or any other profession, God has a purpose for your talents. The question is: will you allow Him to use them?

Living Out Your Faith in the Marketplace

One of the biggest challenges we face as Christians is learning how to live out our faith in a secular marketplace. How do we engage with the world when we know we are not of it? I once heard a pastor say, "I live in Dallas, but Dallas does not live in me." This powerful statement reminds us that while we may live in the world, we are not defined by it. Our hearts belong to God, and our lives are meant to reflect His Kingdom.

For me, this means submitting my dreams, my goals, and my ambitions to God’s will. Everything I have, from the money I earn to the opportunities I receive, is ultimately God's. As the Bible tells us, "The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it" (Psalm 24:1). I am merely a steward of what He has entrusted to me.

This became especially clear to me recently when I was faced with a financial deadline for a mission trip to Israel. I needed $1,055. Through careful planning and saving, I had set aside money from my job to meet the need. The week before the deadline, I was surprised to find that I would actually have $1,070 in my account. This reminds me of the story in Exodus 16, when God provided the Israelites with manna and quail. The Israelites gathered what they needed, and God ensured that no one lacked. As Exodus 16:17-18 says, "He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little." God provides exactly what we need when we trust Him.

Ministry in the Marketplace: Sharing My Faith at Work

As I reflect on the ways God is using me in the marketplace, I am reminded that people are watching. They are searching for something that works, something that brings real meaning and purpose. This was evident to me one Friday afternoon after chapel at school, when I was filled with the Holy Spirit and found myself crying out to the Lord. After a powerful time of prayer, I reluctantly went to work, thinking I would rather spend the day with God than at my job.

However, during my shift, a conversation with my co-workers turned into an opportunity to share my testimony. My manager and colleagues were asking me questions, and I found myself standing and sharing about God’s work in my life. When I finished, I was amazed—this was clearly a moment orchestrated by God, not by me. Later that night, the owner of the restaurant sent me to work at a private country club he owns. It felt like another open door for ministry.

The experience reminded me that God can use us in the most unexpected places—whether we are at a restaurant, a business meeting, or in any other everyday situation. People in the marketplace are looking for hope and answers. They need to see the power of God at work in our lives.

How to Be Effective in the Marketplace

To be effective as a Christian in the marketplace, I believe there are a few key principles to live by:

1. Stay Rooted in God’s Word – Read, memorize, and meditate on the Bible daily. Spending time with God is essential for spiritual growth and guidance.

2. Pray for Wisdom – Always pray about every decision, big or small. It’s important to seek God’s will, not the opinions of others.

3. Live Out Your Faith – Galatians 2:20 reminds us that we have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer we who live, but Christ who lives in us. Let your life reflect His love, grace, and truth.

4. Serve Others – Jesus came to serve, not to be served. In everything we do, we should aim to serve others with humility and respect, whether they are fellow Christians or not.

5. Seek Mentorship – Proverbs 1:5 says, “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” Find a mentor to help guide you in your walk with God.

6. Get Training – It’s not enough to pray; we must act on what we learn. God wants to be the boss of our lives, and as we submit to His leadership, He will guide us to success.

Conclusion

As we reflect on how much we’ve given, we must remember that true giving is not just about what we offer, but about the posture of our hearts. Are we willing to give whatever God asks, whether it’s time, money, or our talents? The Kingdom of God is built not by what we hold onto but by what we release. Trusting God with our lives, our resources, and our talents is the key to living a life of fulfillment and impact—both in the marketplace and beyond.

- By Donnelly Cameron