People sometimes forget that there is a need for all of us to give to one another. We tend to be more concerned about receiving within our own households or families than giving to those less fortunate than we are.
So, how can we change the culture around the idea of giving to others? How can we make sure that people are emphasizing the opportunity to give as much as they would like to receive in their own lives?
Churches are in a unique position when it comes to this issue. Here at i3 Nonprofit Solutions, we work with churches to help make it easier for their members to tithe, which is an issue for many congregations. Traditional methods to tithe sometimes limit people from donating because they don’t carry cash or checks anymore. But, with one of our mobile tithing solutions, churches can make it simple and fast for members of their congregation to be charitable.
But making it easier for people to donate is half the battle. You still must remind them of the importance of being generous. It starts at church.
Talk About Bible Verses on Stewardship During Services
There are many, many great Bible verses that break down the importance of giving. For example:
“In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” — Acts 20:35
And…
“A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.” – Proverbs 18:16
Verses like these will help your congregation understand the bigger picture when it comes to giving—that it is God himself who wishes us to be more charitable.
Volunteer at Local Charitable Organizations Regularly
It’s important to relay to your congregation that giving doesn’t always have to be in the form of donating money. Instead, they can offer time by volunteering at a community nonprofit. Nonprofits are always looking for volunteers to help carry out their operations.
People desire to volunteer, but often find themselves overly busy. Foster their experience, by organizing and scheduling the sign-up process. Your members may be more likely to come with a group than on their own. There is no doubt that by the time your group leaves, everyone will be inspired and will look for more ways to be more charitable.
Share Inspiring Stories of Charity
There’s so much bad news out there that it can be easy to overlook all the good there is in the world. During services, provide meaning and purpose to your members by sharing testimonials of people working together for the greater good.
Try challenging your members to give one gift to someone needy for every gift they give within their own friends and family group. And create opportunities for conversations about the rewards and joys of giving. Your church can help change the conversation about generosity. Your church can be a beacon of giving in your community.