Many donations to nonprofits are made with an eye toward potentially increasing tax deductions—and thereby potentially reducing a donor’s tax burden.
For Christians, this may evoke the question: Is it wrong to want to pay less in taxes? After all, Jesus did say to “give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s…” (Matthew 22:21).
Resolving this tension requires clarity and a balanced approach:
Do not pay less than what you owe. Taxes fund public services and programs that educate, transport, protect, and impact all of us.
And do not pay more than what you owe. Jesus never tells his followers to exceed their obligation to Caesar.
Examine your motives. Matthew 22:21 goes on to say, “give… to God what is God’s.” The real question is not “How little tax can I pay?” but rather “Am I doing the most with what God has entrusted to me?”
Pursue thoughtful tax planning. There are a number of tools available – donor advised funds (DAFs), noncash asset giving, and others. These can help legally, honestly lighten the tax load, not to avoid our civic responsibilities but to maximize kingdom impact.
Wise, tax efficient strategies help us both pay what is owed and give abundantly to gospel-centered work.
NEED TO KNOW:
The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act
Last month, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act was passed. Designed to increase supply, improve affordability, restrict corporate buyers, and modernize federal programs, this legislation has the potential to reshape the housing market.
Though there are few sweeping, immediate changes for most real estate investors, small and mid-sized real estate investors may see opportunities emerge as a result of the new provisions:
Development: Some markets, notably manufactured housing, may see faster approvals and fewer regulatory hurdles.
Investing: More projects could create new acquisition and partnership possibilities.
Financing: Expanded federal programs may improve access to capital for certain developments.
Market dynamics: Increased housing supply could influence pricing, rents, and long-term investment strategies.
The full effect of this legislation may unfold gradually as the competition and housing supply evolve.
For more information, the Bipartisan Policy Center offers an implementation tracker to help investors make informed decisions, strengthen portfolios, and ultimately create lasting value in the communities served.
A recent article on the “gray areas” of business by the Colson Center serves as a timely reminder that compliance and ethical practices are non-negotiable … but they are just the starting point.
Operating morally—with a commitment to honesty, fairness, and transparency—gets us closer to our calling as Christians. But we are invited to embrace a more rich approach: generosity.
For many, the idea of generosity begins and ends with money. But living generously means more than accumulating wealth to give away.
It can mean going above and beyond for a client, even when that relationship yields only modest returns. Or maybe it means a regular rhythm of giving your undivided attention to employees, addressing their needs, and celebrating their accomplishments. The opportunities for ministry in our day-to-day work are endless.
As Paul urges in Philippians 2:3–4, we should “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
What would happen if you openly wove generosity into operations, finance, and strategy? How might your business model look different? Are there any obstacles to pursuing a more generous approach?
This does not constitute nor does The Signatry provide legal, tax, financial or other professional advice. You should consult professional advisors concerning the legal, tax, or financial consequences of your charitable activities.
