“But generous people plan to do what is generous, and they stand firm in their generosity.” Isaiah 32:8 NLT

Sometimes people who receive think that giving is easy, but that’s not true. Satan doesn’t want God’s kingdom to thrive, so he hurls many fiery darts at believers to discourage them from overflowing with generosity. Even when someone is inclined to give, many barriers stand in the way. Consider these three:

Family. People often use family obligations as an excuse for not giving. The friend at midnight’s friend even said, “my children and I are in bed. I can’t get up and give you anything” (Luke 11:7). Parents and grandparents are squeezed to pay tuition—sometimes even through post-doctoral studies! Some are legitimately focused on providing critical care their children; others fixate on supplying “the cares of this world.” Giving becomes even more challenging when children oppose their grandparents’ or parents’ charitable decisions. However, generous people view their family needs in light of eternity and make room for generosity.

Finances. You may think that wealthy people should be more generous because they don’t have to worry about money. They might not worry in a sinful sense, but often they are concerned about making wise stewardship decisions. There are times when a donor may want to give, but simply cannot. Fred was asked if he would consider supporting a campaign, he initially indicated he would give $25,000, but after prayer and reconsidering his other obligations he decided to give $10,000. Our proper response is gratitude, not disappointment.

Fear. Satan throws his ultimate weapons of fear and doubt at generous people. “If I give, will I have enough to meet my needs (Matthew 6:33)?  “How can I be sure that God will ‘throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it’” (Malachi 3:10)? Giving requires immense faith no matter your net worth. Fear can surprise even a well-intentioned donor at any time in the giving process, even after they have verbally agreed to support your ministry.

Thankfully, generous people stand firm in their generosity, but that doesn’t make their giving decisions simple or easy. Pray fervently that your donors would stand against the devil’s excuses. Satan knows that if he cuts off your supply lines, he will weaken your ministry. Surround your ministry partners with your shield of faith to help extinguish the flaming arrows aimed at their hearts. Pause right now and pray for your key friends seeking God’s wisdom for what to give, to whom, and when.

Have a Spirit-led fundraising week,

Ron

Ron Haas has served the Lord as a pastor, the vice president of advancement of a Bible college, a Christian foundation director, a board member and a fundraising consultant. He’s authored two books: Ask for a Fish – Bold Faith-Based Fundraising and Simply Share – Bold, Grace-Based Giving. He regularly presents fundraising workshops at ministry conferences and has written fundraising articles for At the Center magazine and Christian Leadership Alliance’s Outcomes magazine.