Perspective

5 giving intentions for a generous year

You may want to do big things with your generosity this year. But have you sat down and created a plan? While spontaneous giving has its place, so does prayerful, strategic planning. Without it, giving can become scattered, uncertain, and less joyful

We encourage you to carve out some time to reflect on generosity, whether it’s with your family around a table, at a coffee shop, during your morning quiet time, or with a sandwich during your lunch break. What will your generosity mean for you or your family? Where is God calling you to give? Who and what do you pray for? What do you hope to see come to pass by this time next year?

To explore these questions and others, here are some possible giving intentions you may want to consider, with an idea or resource to help you go deeper with each one:

1. I will prayerfully consider how my beliefs about money shape my giving

Generosity isn’t just about money; it’s about the heart – for where your treasure is there your heart will be also. For more on this topic, read The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn.

2. I will take time to pray about and explore the causes God is calling me to support

What do you want to accomplish? Make an appointment to personally visit some of the charities you support financially, or research some new causes that have come to your attention.

3. I will set a financial finish line with annual and lifetime giving goals

Instead of asking how much you have left over to give, you could consider flipping the script and asking how much you want to give from the start. Follow our Financial Finish Line series to learn more.

4. I will evaluate charities doing the best work right now

Part of being a good steward is researching or reaching out to the charities you support to make sure your resources are being implemented wisely. Use your Giving Fund to look up pertinent information, or call charities directly to get the answers you need.

5. I will learn more about the wisest ways to give

Did you know that giving appreciated assets like stock, business interests, and real estate can be a much wiser way to give than cash? Contact your local NCF office to find out how you can maximize your gifts this year.

As you contemplate another year of generosity, we’re here to help you make it the most generous one ever.

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