Last week we learned how important it is to lead by educating your people on the biblical basis of stewardship during your weekend service. The majority of your congregation probably has no idea what the Bible says about giving. These two final steps should prove helpful in your pursuit of financial success for your church.

Stewardship Testimonies — Two Times Per Year:
Let your people hear from someone in the church who has struggled with finances and has seen the blessings that come with deciding to honor God despite the struggle. I suggest scheduling short stewardship testimonies at least two times every year.

Giving Challenges — Two Times Per Year:
Human being are wired to respond to challenges. One of the most effective ways to lead your people to give is to boldly challenge them to start giving. I suggest putting forth giving challenges at least twice every year.

You should get periodic reports on the financial status of the church. Make sure you know your weekly, monthly and quarterly budget needs and how giving is matching up to those. Don’t step back and let others lead in this area just because it may make you a little uncomfortable. You don’t have to run everything, but you do have to take the lead in discipling your people toward stewardship and stay involved in the details.

The number one reason pastors are afraid to step up and take a leadership role when it comes to money is that they don’t have personal integrity with their own. The first step to being able to lead your church financially is getting your own finances in order. If you aren’t faithfully tithing, start. Make a decision to get out of debt and begin living within your means. When you are honoring God’s plan for your money, you will be better able to lead your people into doing the same.

Click here to read part 1 of this series.

Your partner in ministry,

Nelson