The contrast between the Pharisee’s prayer and the tax collector’s is stark. The tax collector could only pray, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner” (Luke 18:13). The Pharisee’s prayer was all about him: all the bad things he didn’t do and all the great things he did. He almost broke his arm patting himself on the back. Unfortunately, many nonprofits make the same mistake. Their emails and letters focus on their accomplishments instead of humbly expressing thanks to their donors who give generously to fuel their mission.
Positioning your donors as the hero (rather than your organization) is powerful because it emphasizes their partnership and impact. Here are some suggestions:
Stewardship & Kingdom Work
Peter reminds us we are stewards. “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10). Try phrases like: “God is using your generosity to…” “Through your faithful giving…” “You’re stewarding God’s resources to…” “Your kingdom investment is…” “You’re being the hands and feet of Christ when you…”
Biblical Partnership Language
Paul considered the Philippian believers to be partners. “I thank my God every time I remember you… because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now” (Philippians 1:3,5). Here are some ways to begin your sentences: “You’re partnering with us in God’s mission to…” “Together in Christ, we…” “You’re joining God’s work of…” “As you sow into this ministry…” “Your obedience to God’s call is…”
Impact Rooted in Faith
Jesus reminded us of our ultimate motivation: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). Express your heart like this: “Your gift allowed us to share Christ’s love by…” “You brought hope in Jesus’ name to…” “You’re answering God’s call to care for the least of these…” “Your sacrifice is reflecting the heart of the Gospel…” “You’re living out Matthew 25 when you…”
Blessing & Calling Language
Solomon taught, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). Share these thoughts: “God is multiplying your seed to…” “You’re blessed to be a blessing…” “You’re responding to God’s calling by…” “Your faithfulness is bearing fruit in…”
Direct Attribution
James reminds us about true worship. “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress” (James 1:27). Use these phrases: “Your $50 provided meals and shared the Gospel with…” “You gave a widow dignity and demonstrated Christ’s compassion.” “You sent a child to Christian school where they’ll hear about Jesus.”
Think About This: Frame giving as faithful response to God and participation in His work, not just charity. Donors are heroes because they’re being obedient and allowing God to work through them.
Response: Lord, forgive us for taking the credit for what you are doing through the generosity of our ministry partners.
