The Power of Recurring Giving: A Journey of Faith and Stewardship

TLDR; 

• Data shows that recurring givers, on average, give more than double that of donors making one-time gifts throughout the year.
• Talking about recurring giving doesn’t need to be complicated.

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Table of Contents

The Power of Recurring Giving (video)
Stages of Giving
What is a recurring giver?
Why is recurring giving important?
Why don’t more people set up recurring gifts?
Reflect on your own giving journey

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Have you ever felt God calling you to take a leap of faith with your finances? This feeling isn't just about money; it's a transformative journey that can strengthen your faith and empower your church's mission. Consider a path where giving becomes more than a one-time act but a consistent expression of trust and dedication.

Imagine a moment when you're faced with a decision that could change everything. For one couple, it came in 2019 when the wife felt led to give a significant gift – without knowing the amount or purpose. This prompting set in motion a series of events that would alter their financial landscape and, more importantly, their spiritual journey.

As they navigated this calling, they discovered something profound: giving at this level wasn't just about the money. It was about decoupling their lives from their finances and breaking free from the hold that material possessions had on their hearts. This shift was more than budgetary; it was spiritual. It was freeing. It was a step along the path of growth with Christ that we're all called to walk.

This story illustrates a crucial truth: our relationship with money is deeply intertwined with our spiritual lives. As we grow in our faith, we're often challenged to grow in our giving. This growth isn't always comfortable, but it's in these moments of stretching that we often see God move in unprecedented ways.

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Stages of Giving

Consider the various stages of this financial faith journey:

1. Giving for the first time

2. Choosing to give a second gift

3. Giving regularly or semi-regularly

4. Committing to tithe

5. Setting up a recurring gift

6. Giving above and beyond

Each of these steps represents an opportunity to trust God more fully and to see Him work in our lives in new and exciting ways. But today, let's focus on one particular step: becoming a recurring giver.

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What is a recurring giver?

A recurring giver is someone who sets up an automatic gift on a schedule of their choosing – weekly, monthly, or bi-weekly. While this may seem like a minor administrative change, it represents a significant shift in mindset and commitment. For many, it means giving regardless of circumstances – through sickness, travel, or inconvenience. It's a declaration of trust in God's provision and a commitment to consistent stewardship.

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Why is recurring giving important?

Beyond the spiritual growth it fosters in individual givers, recurring giving has a profound impact on the church community as a whole. Many churches experience what's known as the "summer slump" – a period where attendance and giving typically decrease due to vacations and changed routines. Recurring giving helps to smooth out these fluctuations, ensuring that the church's ministry and outreach can continue uninterrupted throughout the year.

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It's a declaration of trust in God's provision and a commitment to consistent stewardship.

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Data* shows that recurring givers tend to give significantly more over the course of a year compared to those who give one-time donations. On average, a donor making one-time gifts throughout the year gives $1,245 annually. In contrast, a recurring giver contributes an average of $2,739 annually – more than double! Even when looking at median figures to account for extremes, the difference is stark: $204 for one-time givers versus $1,228 for recurring givers.

These numbers aren't just about dollars and cents. They represent increased capacity for ministry, outreach, and impact in the community and the world. They're a testament to the power of consistent, faithful stewardship.

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Why don’t more people set up recurring gifts? 

Often, it's simply because they haven't been asked or haven't considered it. Some common hesitations include:

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1. Wanting to experience a "giving moment" each time they contribute

2. A desire to save the church money on processing fees by giving cash or check

3. Not feeling ready to take that step

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These are all valid concerns, and they can be addressed with open communication and a focus on the bigger picture.

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For those who value the "giving moment" 

Some people believe that the act of physically giving their offering, whether it's cash, check, or even online, is a spiritual experience. They may feel a deeper connection to their faith when they actively participate in the giving process each week or month. The ritual of placing their offering in the collection plate or logging into their online giving account can be a meaningful part of their worship experience.

Talk it through: 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Giving is about what’s in the heart, and not simply that act of placing currency in a plate. The giving moment happens in the heart long before the physical act of giving occurs. To help navigate the change from physical to automated giving, churches can encourage reflection during the offering time, including for those with recurring gifts. 

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For those concerned about fees

Many people are willing to go the extra mile to support their church financially. By choosing to give cash or check, they believe they are minimizing the administrative costs associated with processing donations. While this intention is commendable, it's important to note that modern church management systems often have efficient and cost-effective ways to process electronic payments. Online giving platforms, like Tithe.ly, give donors a chance to Cover the Fees™ in order to ensure 100% of their tithes and offerings are used for ministry.

Talk it through: Encourage donors to Cover the Fees when they set up recurring giving. Raising awareness about the ability to ensure the church receives the full donation amount will benefit donors in all stages of their giving journey leading to even more generosity.

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For those not yet ready to set up recurring gifts

Some individuals may feel hesitant to commit to recurring giving due to a variety of reasons. They might be concerned about their current financial situation, uncertain about their future employment outlook, maybe their income is sporadic, or fluctuates as in the case of a realtor or commission based employee, or simply not accustomed to budgeting for regular charitable giving. Additionally, they may fear that committing to recurring donations will limit their ability to respond to unexpected needs or opportunities. Whatever the reason, simply keeping the option in mind can prepare them for when they do feel called to take that step.

Talk it through: It’s ok to address these concerns directly, and encourage them to pray and seek the Lord’s guidance as they decide how to respond. It’s a commitment, a faith-building step towards believing God will sustain what He’s called you to do. And, what’s more, a recurring gift can be edited or cancelled at any time giving recurring donors the freedom to make adjustments as financial circumstances change.

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Ultimately, the journey of giving is deeply personal and spiritual. It's not about reaching a certain dollar amount or checking a box. It's about growing in trust, obedience, and alignment with God's purposes. It's about recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God, and we are called to be good stewards of those resources.

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Reflect on your own giving journey

As you reflect on your own giving journeys, consider:

• Where are you in your personal giving journey?
• Are you open to God's leading in this area of your life?
• How might consistent, recurring giving impact your spiritual growth and the ministry of your local church?

Remember, every step forward in your giving journey is an opportunity to see God work in new ways. Whether you're just starting to give or considering moving to recurring donations, each decision is a chance to grow in faith and impact the world around you.

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Let's challenge ourselves to take the next step, whatever that may be. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but as we step out in faith, we open ourselves up to experiencing God's provision and grace in remarkable ways. After all, it's not about the amount – it's about the heart behind the gift and the faithfulness to steward what God has entrusted to us.

Are you ready to take your next step in the journey of joyful, faithful giving?

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*based on Tithely giving data

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