Not only is God to receive gifts, but so are those in need. Early on in the church the apostles appointed those whose job it was to take care of the widows and orphans. Hospitality was a common practice of the day as well, where people would take in strangers who were passing through.
According to biblical teaching, if one has too much, instead of hoarding it, he should give it to those who are in need. Those who give to the poor are to be blessed. If one does not provide for the poor and helpless in his own family he “is worse than an infidel” according to Paul (1 Timothy 5:8). Another part of the Bible even suggests that one does not love God if he does not help out those in need (1 John 3:17)
“He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.” – Proverbs 22:9
“He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.” – Proverbs 28:27
“He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.” – Luke 3:11
“Distributing to the necessity of the saints; given to hospitality.” – Romans 12:13
“If any man or woman that believeth have widows let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.” – 1 Timothy 5:16
“But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” – 1 John 3:17
