The Dominion series this past January helped Faith Bible Church to reorient our thinking regarding stewardship. God doesn’t need us, but He has invited us into His generous economy. While everything is God’s, He has entrusted His people with resources to use for His glory. We are blessed when we willingly become the conduits of His abundance, supplying the needs of others and the advance of the Gospel.
The Apostle Paul told the Philippians who had sent him generous gifts supporting his ministry, “They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:18b-19). It has been a joy to see many in the Faith family embrace the joy of God’s provision as they grow in sacrificial generosity.
Members of Faith Bible Church have been generous givers, both historically and over the past year. After an anomalous dip early in the 2022-23 fiscal year, General Fund giving has consistently exceeded projections and budgets. God has provided bountifully, even amid rising costs.
Faith Bible Church’s fiscal year ended August 31, 2023. In the months leading up to the beginning of the 2023-24 fiscal year September 1, the financial team and the elders prayerfully considered many factors in setting the budget. Two of the main categories in the budget are the ongoing expenses of ministry (primarily in pastoral and administrative staffing) and the prudent upkeep of the facility in which so much of that ministry happens. Outreach also remains a high priority.
The budget for 2023-24 is based on projected giving that is 1.62% higher than actual giving for the previous year.
The costs of any organization are lighter when they are shared by more of its members. Those who become Faith members pledge to give regularly, in keeping with what 1 Corinthians 16:2 says regarding a gift: “On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper.”
Giving units (see chart above) are individuals or households who give to the church during the specified month. Whether it be a “large” or “small” amount, the more households embrace the practice of regular giving, the greater the impact on the church’s overall financial picture. It is encouraging to see that number rebounding quickly after two church plants, and holding steady after a large increase last winter.
The Care Fund provides financial assistance for the needs of individuals at Faith, as well as supporting local organizations that help our community: Union Gospel Mission, Life Services, Second Harvest Food Bank, SNAP and World Relief. Thanks to God’s generosity through his people, the Care Fund has been ample for all approved needs in 2022-23.
A loving community making disciples of Jesus Christ.
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