There are several studies that measure giving during life storms and, particularly, collective crises. For example, a study measured giving during the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that there are two general responses–increased selfishness or increased generosity. At first sign of threat, people tend to increase selfishness. This could be seen with the hoarding of toilet paper and masks. But studies also suggest that people show greater financial and social generosity–rather than less–when experiencing personal or local hardship. There is community cohesion during crises.
Paul said it well when he said, “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies” (2 Cor. 4:8-10). Paul says that we who live are “always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake,” so that the life of Jesus is being manifested in our our mortal flesh. Storms are part of life. Our position towards God matters in times of trouble. When we endure, we manifest the life of Jesus to others.
Paul ultimately looks to the resurrection, which is guaranteed for Christians. That’s what matters. So what happens when we are giving in the storm? Paul says, “For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God” (vs. 15). And Paul sums it up nicely: “So we do not lose heart!” (vs. 16).