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Today's Economy and Local Church Giving
How does the present economic crisis affect financial stewardship in the local church? This is an important issue as we conduct our annual stewardship campaigns and end-of-year giving emphasis.
Here are a few suggestions:
Recognize the issue and respond with restrained spending. Like individuals, local churches must plan and monitor income and expenses. Consider postponing discretionary spending and hold the line on budget increases.
Use this opportunity to reflect on consumerism. A key word: simplify. Read "Shopping for the Glory of God", from the fall issue of Circuit Rider. Check out the wallet cards mentioned in the article.
Urge use of Biblical and Wesleyan basics regarding financial management. Earn honestly and diligently. Save vigorously. Do not incur further debt and eliminate debt where possible. Continue to give, recognizing God as author of all that gives and blesses life.
Encourage generosity. During a downturn some will be very hard hit. Others will have little significant impact. In order for the church to be the church, those who suffer little are encouraged to be generous so that food pantries, shelters and church discretionary accounts are available to assist.
Remind one another to "go after God" as the source of joy, freedom and security. (1 Timothy 6: 17-19), especially by exercising the spiritual discipline of giving. We remember the words sung by Christians throughout the Great Depression and during every recession since then: "All I have needed thy hand hath provided, great is thy faithfulness Lord unto me."
Reach out within the church and community by offering family financial management classes. A new resource from the Good $ense Ministry, "Freed-Up Financial Living," can be used in small groups. This excellent DVD-based teaching resource does note need for a trained budget course leader. |
For further information...
Please feel free to contact Foundation staff:
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