Church leaders have the responsibility to ensure that there is adequate and ongoing funding for the costs of operations and programs. This is often a very challenging task. However, many church financial problems can be avoided by proper planning, consistent budgeting, and accountability for spending.

It takes leadership and money for a church to experience dynamic growth. Many church leaders, legitimately concerned about church finances, are looking for ways to increase giving from their congregation. They want to tap into the generosity of the members and boost offerings in the church. It doesn’t have to be a daunting task.

While a church’s budget is set and remains fixed throughout the year, actual income and expense flows are not; in some cases, they can vary widely from month to month. For a church, cash flow can make or break its ability to survive. Leaders of financially healthy churches have learned how to manage through revenue peaks and valleys to avoid the consequences of a budget shortfall.