Using wisdom from God’s Word to direct year-end giving
This year, how can you make the most impact with what God has entrusted to you?
As someone who wants to steward their resources well, you may often consider this question. But we know it’s even more important when you’re trying to make the most of your 2022 charitable year-end giving.
The good news is that God’s Word gives us wisdom and insight into the story He is writing through your generosity. Here are five scriptures to direct year-end giving and help you make the most of your charitable giving.
Ask the Owner
Here’s some simple and sage advice from an NCF giver to answer the question of how and where to give,: “Ask the Owner.” James reminds us, “If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You’ll get his help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it” (James 1:5). The ever-wise and all-generous Owner loves to provide the wisdom His stewards need to deploy His resources (which are, after all, His in the first place). He’ll either affirm the giving strategy you already have in place or move you toward a strategy or organization that speaks to the passions He’s called you to.
Ask your coworkers in Christ
God speaks through His people. The apostle Paul says we are co-workers in God’s service. (1 Corinthians 3:9 NIV) Since He’s the Owner over everything, His people – you and me– are colleagues in His great work of salvation and restoration. Invite the wisdom of trusted friends and family to help inform where to invest your LIFE (Labor, Influence, Finances, Expertise). Ask them to serve alongside you and to pray for wisdom, peace, and obedience over your generosity journey.
Discern by location
Jesus told the disciples that “… you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) We can use Jesus’ invitation as a model for our generosity. Pay attention to the places you feel particularly compelled by and drawn to, and invite your family in on the research, too. Is your heart drawn toward where you sense God moving in your city? Is there a cause in our country that breaks your heart or brings you joy? Do you yearn to bring God’s Word to far reaching countries? Is God moving you to invest alongside local leaders in a specific global context? God has already prepared the way for you to be generous in these places. Spend time listening to what He has for you here.
Focus on the poor
It is clear that those in poverty are close to God’s heart. We know this because there are over 2000 references in the Bible regarding the poor. God calls all believers to join in His restorative work to bring hope and opportunity to them. James 2:5 says, “Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?” To answer His call, consider that some part of your giving strategy involves or engages with the poor – even if that proves to be challenging.
(Re)read The Great Commission
Jesus’ final command is coined The Great Commission.
Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission is so much more than telling others about God. Jesus specifically commands us to “make disciples”. When considering year-end giving, what charities and causes are investing in both evangelism and discipleship? They are two sides of the same coin. A both/and, not either/or. Examples include bible translation or church planting organizations or local churches engaging in scripture translation and teaching. There are also some excellent innovative organizations combining micro-finance and micro-enterprise with discipleship. Find the causes and organizations that are both declaring and demonstrating the Gospel, making disciples along the way.
Year-end giving resourcesIt’s no secret that deadlines spur action. Take a look at these 2022 year-end giving deadlines and strategic giving opportunities to help you finish well by December 31.