Planning ahead and counting the costs of a plan are essential aspects of any project. Jesus even talked about this, in light of Christian discipleship: “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it” (Luke 14:28).
The season for year-end giving is fast approaching, and now is an excellent time to begin to plan ahead, not only for year-end giving, but for your year-round charitable giving as well!
You may be accustomed to planning ahead for a business proposal but may not have thought of taking the same attitude towards your financial giving. Here are a few tips and suggestions for you to consider in coming up with a charitable plan.
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Determine what and how much you want to give.
The answer to this question is going to be different for everyone. But planning is crucial no matter the amount. Whether your gift seems large or small, God can and will use it for His glory! Keep in mind Paul’s admonition in Romans 12:8 to give with liberality!
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Align with your values.
What are the causes that you and your family care about the most? Focus your giving on projects that address issues close to your heart.
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Decide on your giving style.
There are so many options and tools here; the following is just a sampling. Use a DAF, and then give recurring grants to one charity or individual grants to many. Give cash or give assets. The choices are yours, and you have the opportunity to tailor your plan to what fits you and your family.
We would urge you to consider bringing family members into the discussion at the beginning of each of these steps, as this could help avoid conflict down the road.
Remember that your giving has the potential of making an eternal impact as well as a significant earthly difference. So, giving is not something to do off the cuff or spur of the moment. It takes careful planning to make a lasting impact. May God give you wisdom and discernment in the process, and if we can be of any service in the process, please let us know!
About The Signatry
The Signatry seeks to inspire and facilitate revolutionary biblical generosity across generations. Through donor advised funds and other innovative tools and resources, families are empowered to live generously, modeling biblical values for future generations and making a greater impact for causes that align with their passions. Since its founding in 2000, The Signatry has facilitated sending over $4 billion to organizations around the world that are dedicated to solving the world’s greatest problems.
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