It seems like every day there is another opportunity to financially help a worthy organization, and it can be difficult to determine where to send support. Walk through these principles to filter your decision.
First, check to see that the organization relies on the Word of God for guidance and includes in its activities the sharing of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Even if the organization is focused on being the practical hands and feet of Jesus, it is important that His Word is made known, as instructed by the Great Commission (Matthew 2818–20; Acts 1:8). Most Christian-based organizations post on their website a statement of faith that will help you to determine if they are orthodox in their beliefs (Titus 2:1).
Next, check to see if the organization does what it says it does, and does it well. Does the organization make a difference and solve problems? Matthew 13:8 says, "Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty." Is the ministry or organization effective at what it intends to accomplish?
Also, check to see how transparent the organization is with its finances. Can you see how much of the donations the organization receives are put toward what the organization says it does? Does it spend money wisely and in accordance with biblical standards? First Corinthians 4:2 says, "Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful."
Another series of financial questions to ask includes the issue of accountability. Does the organization have a strong board of directors that hold the executives accountable? Does any one individual have control of the funds or how they're spent? Can the organization easily answer your appropriate financial questions? Are leaders there open to discussing their organization and its effectiveness? This is related to Provers 15:22 which says, "Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed." An organization that seeks to do what is best, rather than what is expedient for one person in charge, is more likely to use its finances well.
Pray. Seek the counsel of God on what organizations to give money to. Ask God to create in you an interest in a specific thing He is doing and lead you to an organization doing the same sort of thing. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."
There are no hard and fast rules listed in Scripture about what to do with the money you are giving. We believe the best place to give to advance the kingdom of God is to the local church you attend. When you decide to expand your giving to other organizations, ask the questions above, explore your opportunities, pray, then give!
"The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:6–7).
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