Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
– James 1:17
As Christians, we know everything we have on Earth is God’s. And as he provides for us and blesses us beyond our needs, it’s good to reflect on how we can use his blessings to spread the Gospel. At the Christian Community Foundation, we call that Biblical Stewardship. But how can we ensure we’re good stewards of his blessings, or how can we start if we’ve never looked at giving that way before?
Prayerfully consider your requests.
Giving is a spiritual act of worship. When we give to others, we’re spreading God’s love and good news – so shouldn’t we include Him in those decisions? Before requesting a grant, we encourage you to lift your thoughts to Him in prayer. By incorporating God into your giving, you can ensure your gift giving is Christ centered and heaven minded.
Incorporate the whole family.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
– Proverbs 22:6
Instead of making giving a solitary act, why not include the whole family? The Bible encourages us to set an example for our children, and what better way to inspire them to give than by exposing them to generosity? Before deciding where to give, consider asking your children about causes they’re passionate about and allowing them to be a part of the grant requesting process. This will make your child feel important and a part of the bigger picture. It also demonstrates firsthand the importance of giving back and why we as Christians are called to do so.
Give with a generous spirit.
As Christians, God calls us to give – not out of obligation, but of our own volition.
Think to Mark 12:41-44, the parable of the Widow’s Offering. Many wealthy people came to make an offering at the temple, but Jesus noticed a widow giving just two coins and said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
God loves a cheerful giver. He doesn’t care about the monetary amount; He cares about our hearts. When you give with God in your heart, your gifts will multiply tenfold!
If you have questions about CCF or donor-advised funds or want advice about how and where to give, feel free to give us a call at 901-682-6201.