Whether you are on solid financial footing and give regularly, or are struggling just to put food on the table, it is important to review your giving. The key to good Christian financial planning is balance and a grateful heart. Setting giving goals that are both practical and generous requires you to take a step back and look at your money habits.

Analyze your Budget

Start by figuring out what you can afford to give regularly. Though the traditional tithe is 10% of your income, there is no reason that you should not give to your full capacity, whether it be above or below that amount. Each person must come up with a figure based on his or her budget. Look for areas you can cut back. For example, if you budget 50 dollars a week for restaurant meals, consider eating at home more and then donating half that number.

Give It before You Miss It

The book of Matthew offers a bit of wisdom in this matter.

Chapter 6: 3-4: “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.“

Sometimes giving more requires a little slight of hand. Start with your employer. Ask about setting up charity donations deducted right from your paycheck. This is an effective way to track your giving for tax purposes, as well. It also encourages others to follow your lead. Your employer might even decide to match any donations – doubling the offering.

Look for charities that will automatically withdraw the funds from your bank account. This gives you the pleasure of seeing the payment go out without having decide how much to give each month.

Think Outside of the Box

If your budget is as tight as you can make it, then look for other ways to give.

Learn to super coupon – Couponing is not only a great way to save money, but can also be an awesome opportunity to help the less fortunate. Consider hosting a food drive in which all of the items have to be the product of a coupon deal. See who can provide the most (usable!) items at the lowest cost and award a small prize.

Give time instead of money – Giving doesn’t have to be monetary. Check at your church for volunteer and missionary opportunities. Call the local shelter, food bank or kitchen to see if you can lend a hand. Giving time allows you to help people in your community and make friends in the process.

Give as a family – Create activities that your whole family can do to such as collecting cans to recycle or setting up food drives two or three times a year.

Deuteronomy 16:17: “Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you.”

In other words, if you cannot afford the traditional 10% tithe at this time, give what you can afford by setting achievable goals. With prayerful consideration and practical budgeting, you can enrich your life while helping others.