Ministry is not just a career — it’s a unique calling. Financial stress can quietly weigh down even the most faithful minister. When you’re already carrying the emotional and spiritual responsibilities of shepherding a congregation, the pressure of trying to make ends meet can add an extra layer of strain. Here are four practical tips that could help ease that burden and bring more stability to your monthly finances.
Deciding whether your spouse should work outside your home is a deeply personal decision with many implications. Having a second income can help financially, but it also affects childcare, household responsibilities and even your spouse’s involvement in the church or ministry you serve. Most importantly, it can make a difference in your relationship with each other and the Lord (1 Peter 3:7).
There are many factors to consider, but knowing the impact on your finances is a good place to start. Our Spousal Income Calculator can help you determine the financial impact of adding — or removing — your spouse’s income to your household.
Proverbs 22:3 reminds us that “A sensible person sees danger and takes cover, but the inexperienced keep going and are punished” (CSB). Life[JR1] has a way of throwing curve balls at us, whether it’s a household appliance breaking, an auto fender-bender or an unexpected medical procedure. It’s only a matter of time before one or another of these crises comes your way, and your financial stability can quickly be upended if you’re not ready. Watch our video Save for an Emergency for tips on how to prepare for life’s unfortunate surprises.
The Apostle Paul wrote, “good leaders are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching” 1 Timothy 5:17 (CSB). If you meet its definition of a “Minister for Tax Purposes”, the IRS will allow you to exclude some or all of your ministerial income designated by your church or church-related employer as a housing allowance from income for federal income tax purposes. (However, while you’re working and claiming the allowance, that amount will still be included in your SECA taxes.) This can significantly reduce your tax bill every year, allowing you to use more of your income to provide for you and your family, and save for a secure retirement. Learn more about this key benefit in our video What is a Minister’s Housing Allowance?.
Asking your church to switch to a salary-and-benefits approach could be a game-changer for you. Even though your church would pay the same total amount, this structure allows key components — like housing allowance and benefits — to be treated more favorably for tax purposes. That means you could take home more without increasing the church’s budget. Learn more about these two different approaches for further compensation planning.
Looking for more help? Check out our helpful resources and calculators. Also, browse and watch our recorded webinars for tips on money management and good financial stewardship for additional guidance in making ends meet.
At GuideStone®, we want every servant of Christ to finish well. Our mission is to enhance financial security and resilience for those who serve the Lord.
For more information, contact us at Info@GuideStone.org or 1-888-98-GUIDE (1-888-984-8433), Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT to speak with a customer solutions specialist.
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• Oct 8, 2025 