Faithful Giving and Stewardship

Believers are called to give generously to the church and charities. Yet wise giving starts with ensuring your family is protected. 1 Timothy 5:8 warns that neglecting to provide for your household undermines your faith.

When structured properly, life insurance can safeguard your family while also leaving a charitable legacy. It empowers you to tithe faithfully even after your death by directing a portion of the death benefit to your church or favorite ministry.

Pairing giving with protection reflects holistic stewardship—caring for your family and expanding God’s kingdom.

  • Continue tithing through your policy’s death benefit
  • Designate a portion to your church or missionary fund
  • Communicate your charitable intentions with beneficiaries

Policy Structures for Charitable Integration

You can name a ministry or church as a beneficiary for a percentage or specific dollar amount of your policy. This ensures your giving continues even after you’re gone.

Consider a charitable rider or a donor‑advised fund (DAF) to funnel proceeds to multiple ministries without changing your beneficiary designations.

Use permanent life insurance to build cash value that can be gifted during your lifetime or as part of a charitable remainder trust.

Budgeting for Premiums and Giving

Apply the 10‑10‑80 principle: tithe 10%, save/protect 10%, and live on 80% of your income. Life insurance premiums fall into the protection portion of your budget.

Review your giving goals annually and adjust your coverage as your income grows or your ministry priorities change.

Work with a qualified advisor to balance premiums, charitable intent, and family protection within your overall stewardship plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I name a ministry as a beneficiary?

Yes. You can designate a church or nonprofit to receive all or part of your policy’s death benefit. Consult legal counsel to ensure proper documentation.

How do I balance premiums and tithing?

Follow the 10‑10‑80 principle. Allocate 10% of your income to giving, 10% to savings and protection (including insurance premiums), and live on the remaining 80%.

What if my beneficiaries don’t support my giving wishes?

Use trusts, donor‑advised funds, or direct beneficiary designations to ensure your charitable intentions are honored even if heirs disagree.

Disclosures: For educational purposes only; not tax, legal, or investment advice. Product availability, features, and rates vary by carrier, underwriting, and state. Crocker Financial is licensed in OH, SC, SD, VA, TN, and IN. Consult your professional advisors for personalized guidance.