Approaching Next Year’s Financial Planning from a Christian Perspective
As the weather turns colder and we begin thinking about next year’s financial goals, it’s easy to slip into a mindset shaped by the world: earn more, spend more, save more—always chasing the next milestone. Our inner craving for more, combined with watching 100,000 ads for Christmas shopping, creates an unhealthy starting point for looking ahead to next year. We become shaped by a message that creates greed, comparison, and anxiety.
But as Christians, we’re called to a different approach, one that reflects trust in God and puts possessions in their proper place. As Thanksgiving approaches, consider taking 30-60 minutes to reflect on how God has met your needs and guided your path. By adopting this approach, we become better stewards of what He has given us.
Here are three questions, principles, and quotes from Paul’s epistles to guide your time.
1. How Did God Provide? (Gratitude, Not Greed)
Create a heart full of gratitude by reflecting on the ways God provided for you this past year. Maybe it was a steady paycheck, an unexpected bonus, or even the simple gift of daily bread. These blessings remind us that our security doesn’t come from our bank account—it comes from God.
Paul promises us:
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
Paul concludes Philippians by thanking those who supported him, offering this promise in return. Modeling Paul’s spirit of gratitude guards our hearts against greed and helps us unleash generosity. A practical step: start your financial review by listing five ways God provided for you over the past year. Let that gratitude shape your goals.
2. What Wise Financial Moves Did I Make Last Year? (Contentment, Not Comparison)
The world loves comparison—bigger houses, newer cars, flashier vacations. But comparison breeds discontent and robs us of joy. It generates a gnawing sense that you aren’t doing enough. Instead, celebrate the wise financial decisions you made last year, whether big or small. Did you increase your giving percentage? Pay down debt? Build an emergency fund? Save adequately for retirement? Congratulations if you did!
Paul reminds us:
“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6)
Contentment doesn’t mean complacency; it means trusting that what you have is enough because God is enough. As you plan for next year, focus on faithfulness rather than competition. Your financial journey is unique, and God honors wise, intentional steps. A practical tip: Review your financial wins from last year and thank God for the wisdom He has given you.
3. What Brought Us Joy? (Abundance, Not Anxiety)
Our information age seems optimized to produce anxiety rather than intelligence. There is always something you don’t have or some threat to what you do have. Instead, think about the moments that brought true joy last year—maybe a family vacation, a special gift for a loved one, or an extra donation to someone in need. These experiences remind us that money is a tool, not a master.
Paul counsels us:
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8)
Financial planning from a Christian perspective embraces abundance—not in hoarding wealth, but in living generously and joyfully. When setting priorities, focus on activities that bring you and others joy.
Final Thoughts & Call-to-Action
As you prepare for next year, let gratitude guide your goals, contentment shape your decisions, and joy remind you of God’s abundant goodness. When we approach money with a Christ-centered mindset, we are more likely to make choices that benefit ourselves, our neighbors, and Christ’s Kingdom.
Take Action Today:
Pray over your finances between now and Thanksgiving.
Journal five ways God provided for you this year.
Set one giving goal for the coming year that reflects generosity and trust.
Prioritize joyful activities that strengthen your relationships and glorify God.
On behalf of my family and the Orchard Alliance team, I wish you and yours a Thanksgiving that reflects joy and gratitude for all our Provider has done and will continue to do in and through us.
