Christians often talk about stewardship, budgeting, and investing. But one area that doesn’t get as much attention is intentional generosity. Many people give when prompted by a sermon or a fundraiser, but few create a written giving plan—a thoughtful, prayer-driven strategy for generosity.
Just like you wouldn’t approach retirement planning without a strategy, you shouldn’t approach generosity without one either. Scripture calls us to live intentionally in every area, and that includes how we give.
Why a Giving Plan Matters
God cares deeply about how we handle money. Jesus spoke more about money and possessions than almost any other topic. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul says, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Notice that Paul emphasizes decision. Giving should not be haphazard or pressured—it should be the result of prayer, planning, and purpose.
Without a plan, generosity can quickly become sporadic. We may only give when a need is in front of us, when emotions are stirred, or when it’s convenient. But Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” Planning our giving ensures that generosity is a rhythm of life, not just a reaction.
The Benefits of Writing It Out
Creating a written giving plan brings both spiritual and practical benefits:
- It aligns your heart with God’s purposes
Writing out a plan is a declaration of trust. You’re saying, “This money is God’s, and I want to use it for His Kingdom.” This helps guard against the temptation to spend only on ourselves.
- It brings clarity and peace
Many Christians wrestle with guilt, wondering if they’re “doing enough.” A written plan removes that uncertainty. You’ll know you’ve already set aside what God has led you to give.
- It helps you be consistent
Just as a budget keeps your spending on track, a giving plan keeps generosity steady month after month. Malachi 3:10 reminds us of God’s call: “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse.” Consistency matters.
- It allows you to dream bigger
Each year, you can reevaluate and stretch your generosity. Could you give an extra percentage this year? Could you take on a new missionary? Could you fund a scholarship or ministry project?
- It sets an example for your family
Proverbs 22:6 tells us, “Train up a child in the way he should go.” Modeling generosity teaches your children that giving isn’t optional—it’s an essential part of following Jesus. Showing generosity in our actions leads by example, and we know that more is caught then taught.
Why Review It Every Year
Finances are never static. Some years bring raises, bonuses, or unexpected blessings. Other years may bring challenges. An annual review allows you to adjust your giving while staying faithful. It also helps us stay prayerful and open handed, giving room for the Lord to grow us and stretch us.
Paul encouraged Timothy to remind believers “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share” (1 Timothy 6:18). Reviewing your plan each year ensures you’re always “ready to share,” no matter what life brings.
How to Create a Biblical Giving Plan
Here’s a simple, practical process to get started:
- Pray first
Generosity is worship, not just math. Philippians 4:18 describes gifts as “a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.” Begin by asking God to direct your giving.
- Decide your percentage
Many Christians use the tithe (10%) as a starting point. But don’t stop there—many families give far beyond that as God blesses them. The point isn’t to give in proportion to your income, but to be open to what the Lord would have for you, cheerfully and sacrificially.
- Choose where to give
- Local church: Tithing to your own church is important. Scripture reminds us to “bring the whole tithe into the storehouse” (Malachi 3:10). Your local church is the place God has planted you to worship, grow, and serve. Giving here strengthens the ministry that feeds you spiritually, equips your family, and reaches your community with the gospel.
- Missions & ministries: Support causes that align with your values—Bible translation, pro-life work, Christian education, global missions, or evangelism.
- Personal giving: Set aside funds for spontaneous generosity—helping a neighbor, covering a medical bill, or blessing a missionary family.
- Write it down
Create a document or spreadsheet that outlines your giving categories and amounts. Writing it out transforms good intentions into intentional action.
- Review annually
At the start of each year (or alongside your financial review), revisit your giving plan. Adjust as income changes. Ask God where He wants you to give more or differently.
Examples of Giving Plans in Action
- The Retired Couple: After decades of work, they dedicate 15% of their retirement income to Kingdom purposes—supporting their church, a Christian radio station, and a crisis pregnancy center. Each year, they add a new ministry.
- The Young Family: Even with student loans and tight budgets, they tithe to their church. They also sponsor two children through Compassion International and set aside $500 annually for spontaneous generosity—covering groceries, medical bills, or blessing a neighbor.
- The Business Owner: She tithes on business profits, first giving to her church. Then she funds Bible translation projects and invests in clean water initiatives in Africa. Her employees see generosity modeled in the workplace.
These examples show that a giving plan isn’t about how much you make—it’s about faithfulness, intentionality, and Kingdom focus.
Living Generously
At its core, creating a biblical giving plan is about trust. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:21, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” When we choose to plan our giving, we’re intentionally setting our treasure—and our heart—toward God’s Kingdom.
Generosity doesn’t just bless others; it transforms us. It loosens the grip money has on our hearts and helps us find freedom in Christ. By reviewing and writing out a giving plan each year, you’ll experience the joy of being a faithful steward, the peace of knowing your generosity is intentional, and the blessing of seeing God multiply what you’ve entrusted to Him.
So this year, don’t just hope to be generous, plan to be generous.