Our Scripture reading today is Luke 6:38, "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again."
 
God promises us in this verse that we will receive a blessing. The blessing is contingent upon our obedience.  We are to give first and our giving activates God's blessing.  Many Christians live like it is reversed.  "God, if you will bless me with more finances, I will give."  This is not what the Scripture says.  We cannot change the terms and expect God to bless our plan and way.  Are you giving to the LORD?  
 
The application from this verse goes far beyond just financial giving.  It can and does include giving in any way.  We give love and it comes back to us in a greater way.  We give friendship and we receive more friendship back to us.  Put God to the test and be a cheerful giver.  You cannot out give God!