For generations, Free Will Baptists have demonstrated the commitment to faithfully support Kingdom work through local churches. Because of good stewardship and sacrifices by those who came before us, many of our churches enjoy the fruits of those labors that continue to impact lives today.
Every church is entrusted with resources that not only belong ultimately to God but are also to be used for His purposes. Whether finances, facilities, equipment, land, or faithful tithing and giving, these resources are not just assets to be maintained but rather resources to be used to advance the gospel.
As stewards of these resources, churches have a responsibility to carry out today’s ministry needs while also preparing for future ministry opportunities. Many churches naturally focus on today’s needs and expenses. While this is important and necessary, it shouldn’t stop there. Biblical stewardship calls us to look beyond the here and now and make preparation for the future. Churches should consider how today’s decisions strengthen (or weaken) ministry for generations to come.
One of the first steps churches should take toward long-term stewardship is developing a clear financial plan. As a congregation makes budgetary decisions, they should make sure the budget reflects ministry priorities and supports both present and future ministry opportunities. Ask questions like: What has God called this church to do in the next five to ten years? Are we storing or stewarding? And before all the numbers appear on paper, anchor the budget biblically.
Another important aspect of stewardship is preparing for future needs and ministry opportunities God may provide. These needs don’t always give a “heads up.” Churches will inevitably face unexpected building repairs, equipment replacement, or economic challenges that place significant strain on church finances. At the same time, God may open doors for new ministries, community outreach, missions involvement, or facility expansion. Establishing reserve funds and practicing sound financial management will help churches respond to challenges and opportunities without disrupting ministry.
As a church prepares for the future, leadership also should consider how excess funds can be strategically invested for future ministry purposes. Too often, churches keep excess funds in a checking or savings account. Rather than allowing significant resources to sit idle in low-yield accounts, a church may benefit from investment options that align with their values and risk tolerance. Properly managed investments help preserve purchasing power, provide additional income for ministry, and support long-term ministry goals.
As your church develops a financial plan, it is important to remember this is not merely a financial responsibility; it is a spiritual one. Every dollar entrusted to a church represents an opportunity to impact souls with the gospel and strengthen the church’s ability to fulfill its purpose and mission.
When a church stewards resources well, they position themselves to disciple believers, serve their communities, support missionaries, and expand ministry opportunities for generations to come. This is about more than preserving resources. This is about growing the Kingdom.
Richland Ave Financial is available to help. Through our institutional investing program and financial resources tailored to churches and ministry organizations, we can partner with your leadership team. We can provide guidance on managing your financial resources and preparing for future ministry opportunities. We welcome an opportunity to begin a conversation and help your church prepare for future ministry. Learn more: richlandavefinancial.com.
About the Writer: Chris Compton is the CFO for Richland Ave Financial. He graduated in 2007 with an M.A. in Bible Exposition from Columbia International University. A 1998 graduate of East Tennessee State University, he has over two decades of administrative and financial experience in various fields, along with seven years in pastoral ministry.
