Five Motivators to Be a Giver

Tithing to your church and giving to charity are often viewed as selfless acts of kindness that benefit others. Hopefully selfless motivations are enough to motivate you to give. I believe that there is supernatural power behind giving and that every dollar that you give out of faithfulness will be returned to you somehow, usually in greater abundance. The prophet Malachi recites God as declaring to a people who did not give, “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this,” says the Lord of Hosts. “See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour for you blessing without measure.” Malachi 3:10.

If the spiritual implications aren’t enough to motivate giving, there are also personal financial benefits to these practices. In this blog post, we will explore some of the ways in which tithing and charitable giving can improve your financial well-being, as well as build your community.

• • 1. Tax Benefits: When you donate to a qualified charity, you may be eligible for a tax deduction. Generally churches and organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) organizations by the IRS are eligible to receive deductible gifts. This means that you can reduce your taxable income and potentially lower your tax bill. In addition, if you donate appreciated assets such as stocks or real estate, you may be able to avoid paying capital gains taxes. For more advice on this topic, speak to your CPA.

• • 2. Improved Financial Management: This one may be counterintuitive, but learning to live on less improves your overall financial management. Giving away a portion of your income requires discipline and planning. By making regular contributions to a charity or religious organization, you may develop better budgeting and financial management skills. This can lead to improved financial stability and increased savings.

• • 3. Personal Satisfaction: Giving to others can provide a sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment that is difficult to achieve through material possessions. This sense of well-being can lead to improved mental and emotional health, which can in turn positively impact your financial decision-making. Plus, your heart often follows your treasure. If you want to be invested in your community, give your money and time to it, and see what happens. If you want to get more involved in church, start giving more to it. You’ll be invested and want to be involved.

• • 4. Strengthened Community Connections: When you give to a local charity or religious organization, you may be building stronger connections within your community. These relationships can provide a sense of belonging and support that can help you weather financial challenges.

• • 5. Legacy Building: Finally, charitable giving can be a way to build a legacy and make a lasting impact on the world. By donating to a cause or organization that aligns with your values, you can leave a positive mark on the world and inspire others to do the same.

In conclusion, tithing to your church and giving to charity are not only acts of kindness but also beneficial for personal financial well-being and community ties. By contributing to charitable organizations, you can reduce your tax burden, improve your financial management skills, experience personal satisfaction, strengthen community connections, and leave a positive legacy. Consider incorporating these practices into your financial plan for a more fulfilling and financially secure future.