Planned Giving: Sustaining Love and Impact
Narrated by Mindy Ying Compiled by Linda Pang
In February 2024, Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York received a $1 billion endowment. Former faculty member Dr. Ruth Gottesman allocated a portion of her late husband's estate to ensure that, from now on, medical students at the institution will no longer have to pay tuition.1
What kind of impact can such a donation bring?
First, the investment returns from the endowment fund will be used to cover tuition costs. With careful management and the right financial tools, the principal remains untouched, ensuring long-term, sustainable support for students. This is the impact of financial stewardship.
Moreover, with tuition-free education, many students from low-income or immigrant families may now have the opportunity to enter medical school. This will have a long-term impact on the students themselves, their families' future economic stability and social mobility. Additionally, without the burden of heavy student loans, these future doctors can freely choose specialties based on their strengths and passions rather than financial constraints. They may also be more inclined to serve in lower-income public healthcare systems, providing treatment for those unable to afford insurance or medical expenses, or even participate in international medical relief efforts. The ripple effects of this initiative on society, human well-being, and the future of healthcare will extend further, wider, and deeper than we can imagine.
God delights in a cheerful giver. When His children, guided by the Holy Spirit, wisely steward resources and give generously, love and impact can be sustained for generations.
With the principle of pleasing God as the foundation.
For Christians who sincerely follow God's teachings, giving beyond the tithe — for the sake of the gospel and charitable causes — should not be difficult. However, how many have truly thoughtfully and intentionally planned their giving? As stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us, we are called to be good, faithful, and wise not only in our daily spending but also in our offerings. Shouldn’t the same prayerful discernment and strategic planning apply to giving? How should we determine the amount, recipients, and methods of our offerings? More importantly, how can we give strategically to advance and expand God’s kingdom?
Why give: for spreading the gospel, helping the poor, or disaster relief? For whom to give: to well-organized and efficient institutions, or by investing in individual lives to reap an eternal impact?
I believe the principle is to please God. He remembers those who give generously and delights in blessing them with an abundant life. Regardless of the amount given, God values the heart behind it. As for choosing where to give, it requires the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Pray for a burden, seek wisdom, and use money in a meaningful way.
My father passed away suddenly when I was ten years old, and my mother raised six children on her own. Though she had only attended a private tutor school, she placed great importance on our education. Because of her determination, we also dedicated ourselves to our studies. During my university years, I worked part-time while studying and received a scholarship to pursue further education in the United States. I deeply understood the significance and benefits of scholarships, which is why, once I had the ability, I was more than willing to provide scholarships to support students.
For example, in memory of my mother, Li Hsu Ye Mei, I provide a scholarship to the Chinese American Physician Society, known as CAPS, to help medical students who had worked hard to gain admission but might struggle to continue due to tuition costs. This is also a way to encourage students. When I saw the news about the donation to Albert Einstein College of Medicine, I rejoiced in my heart, saying, Amen! Amen! We need more people who value medical education in this way.
I also established a scholarship at my alma mater and, whenever possible, attended the award ceremonies myself or invited my siblings to do so. During these occasions, I shared about my mother's influence on us, hoping to encourage students and pass on the value of prioritizing education.
A graduate student whose parents had faced a business failure wrote to thank me. After learning about his situation, I discussed it with the school and arranged for additional financial support for his daily expenses for a period of time, allowing him to stabilize his life and focus on his studies. I felt that using money in this way had even greater meaning, and being able to help others to the best of my ability brought me great joy.
It is not just about money; all resources come from God, including our breath, time, opportunities, and health. The ability to speak words of encouragement or to participate in ministry is also by God's grace. If I can do more, I will do more. The decision of where to give is often influenced by personal background. As a Christian, I understand the importance of truth and hope that more people will pursue theological education. I find it meaningful to support seminary students, which is why I established the Li Xu Ye Mei Scholarship at both the church and the seminary. This serves as a way to honor my mother while also helping brothers and sisters defend the truth. Furthermore, graduates of seminaries and Bible colleges may not have high incomes to give back to their alma mater. If a large donation can be used to establish a fund, allowing the school to train and equip more workers for God's kingdom, the impact will be even more far-reaching.
I have also been actively involved in an English character camp, providing students in rural areas of Taiwan with the opportunity to learn English while also developing character during their summer break. This initiative later led to the establishment of places like the Jiameidi Community Care Center in Dajia District, Taichung, Taiwan. This center provides after-school tutoring and support for teenagers, giving them a safe, healthy, and happy environment where they can learn new skills, receive academic guidance, and have access to food. It helps them spend their time on activities with long-term impact. Without such support, many of these students might otherwise be sent to temples to become spirit mediums.
Make decisions by following the prompting with obedience.
How can giving to organizations, ministries, or individuals yield a greater return for God's kingdom? For donors, should it be a one-time gift or a recurring donation? Should they give small amounts to many organizations or make larger contributions to fewer ministries? I believe both are necessary, and both require obedience to God's prompting. The most common situation is offering help when someone is in crisis, providing immediate relief. For example, churches may establish a benevolence fund, encourage members to contribute, or allocate a portion of general offerings for this purpose. This could be done through special offerings on the fifth Sunday, setting aside a fixed percentage of annual or monthly giving, or designating a quarterly compassion Sunday. Such an approach ensures that funds are available when needed and also teaches brothers and sisters to care for one another, using their abundance to meet the needs of others.
Various gospel organizations and ministries, each serving God's kingdom, have been established by His calling and require the support of His children. For example, Hudson Taylor, who opened the door to the gospel in China and founded the China Inland Mission, has inspired many through his biography. Would presenting his story through film create an even greater impact? Half Crown Ministry, in collaboration with Overseas Mission Fellowship (OMF), is working to bring "The Hudson Taylor Story" to the big screen.2 This is such a grand plan! Therefore, it requires a substantial contribution.
For organizations or ministries, both large one-time donations and small recurring contributions are necessary. Those serving in ministry are called by God and led by the Holy Spirit to participate in kingdom work, relying on the gospel for their livelihood. Ministries have ongoing expenses such as utilities and administrative costs, and regular donations help ensure smooth daily operations. Larger donations provide a foundation for long-term development, reducing the fundraising burden on workers so they can focus more on the ministry itself and the people they serve, bringing lasting blessings to others.
Plan investments with a long-term perspective
To be able to give, Christians must practice wise financial management. Setting and following a budget is fundamental, along with making short-, mid-, and long-term financial plans. A good personal finance strategy includes consistent, long-term savings in investment tools that provide returns exceeding inflation. For donors in the United States, charitable contributions can also provide tax benefits. Paying taxes is important, and what belongs to the government should be given accordingly. While individuals may have little control over how the government allocates funds, using legal and wise tax-saving strategies allows believers to manage God’s entrusted resources according to Christian values and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Just as building a house requires a blueprint, God’s children need to plan with the heart of a steward, carefully evaluating their financial situation and making wise decisions regarding taxes and giving to more effectively advance God's kingdom. I encourage everyone to stay informed about regulations, especially since changes to the U.S. estate tax law are expected by the end of 2025. When necessary, consult financial planners, accountants, or attorneys for professional guidance.
Investing requires using the right tools. I once had two physician clients who worked hard for 30 years. One had less than 500,000 dollars in their retirement account, while the other had 5 million. Why was there such a big difference? I found that the physician who did not plan financially paid a high amount in income taxes, leaving much less for savings. The other planned early, used the right financial tools, not only saving on taxes but also allowing time to become a powerful factor in growing their savings.
It is common to hear about financial needs in gospel organizations. While praying for God to move His children to give, I also suggest that organizations create sources of income. By using their platform through lectures, books, and other resources, they can provide value to people. For example, they could teach biblical knowledge and practical applications, such as biblical financial management, where one of the key principles is giving. When the audience benefits, it can inspire a heart of gratitude, leading them to give in support of the ministry. This, in turn, allows more people to benefit and contributes to a healthier society.
I once suggested that the association affiliated with my church plan how to manage the donations it received by allocating a portion for long-term investment. God's kingdom is eternal, and the resources belonging to His house should also have a broad and lasting impact. Therefore, both donors and recipients should manage these funds with an even broader and longer-term perspective than they would with their own personal finances. I have observed that churches and gospel organizations, out of concern for risk, often choose to keep their funds only in bank accounts or fixed deposits without considering long-term returns. Over time, the interest earned may only keep up with inflation, resulting in no real growth. Others may place all their funds into a single investment without diversifying risk.
Whether managing finances for individuals, churches, or organizations, having a sense of peace is essential. Understanding financial tools, using them wisely, and consistently monitoring them will lead to greater peace over time. Some people feel moved to give but hesitate out of fear that they will not have enough. Likewise, organizations often face financial needs and worry that allocating a portion of their income to long-term investments might leave them short for immediate expenses. However, with a well-structured financial plan and a step-by-step approach, they will come to realize that what God provides far exceeds what we ask or imagine.
Optimize life through generosity
I grew up in poverty and experienced lack. When my two children were just one and three years old, I became a single mother. There was a time when no matter how I calculated my finances, the numbers were always in the negative—I never had enough. Yet, God provided job opportunities for me, and I even started a business by faith. Looking back now, I can clearly see how God led me through those hardships. He taught me to cherish having resources and helped me understand the true significance of using money wisely.
Now, I save where I should and spend where it is needed. I prioritize saving so that I can do more. For example, when traveling for business, leisure, or mission work, I always fly economy class. Some people have suggested that business or first class would be much more comfortable, allowing for better rest on the plane and immediate productivity upon arrival. However, my perspective is that the money saved could be used to bring more coworkers on mission trips. Using money in this way feels far more meaningful.
Giving willingly and meaningfully creates a cycle of goodness for oneself, society, and the kingdom. For oneself, knowing that God's resources are being used to bless others and glorify Him brings peace and joy. For society, those in need—whether materially, emotionally, or spiritually—receive help. When they are empowered to give back, society becomes healthier. For the kingdom, God's love and truth reach more people, leading more to receive the gospel and eternal life, allowing His kingdom to flourish.
God's truth is truly amazing, isn't it? Giving leads to receiving an even more abundant and fulfilling life!
In 2023, the Chinese edition of “Die with Zero” by Bill Perkins was published, sparking much discussion. The book's subtitle, “Knowing How to Spend Money Is the Best Investment”, suggests that to optimize life, one should invest money in life experiences. This idea aligns with the common saying, “You can’t take money with you when you die.” I agree that accumulated wealth should be well planned and that the life God has given should be lived to the fullest. But what does it mean to live a fulfilling life? How can money be used to optimize life?
For me, spending money only on personal comfort and immediate enjoyment—whether on food, clothing, housing, transportation, or travel—does not define a truly fulfilling life. When we meet our basic needs for a healthy life and also use our resources to help others overcome difficulties, restore hope, or hear the gospel and receive eternal life, we are not only optimizing our own lives but also helping others do the same. This kind of impact extends to family, the church, society, and even the kingdom, creating a greater and more lasting influence. What could be more fulfilling than that? When God's children understand their purpose, plan their lives wisely, and use money as a tool to pursue their calling—giving their heart, strength, and devotion to doing what they are meant to do—this becomes the journey of a victorious life.
With the generosity and kindness that God has given, doing what pleases Him, He promises that “those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” His blessings go far beyond material abundance, pouring down like the spring rain. Wouldn’t such a life be even more fulfilling?
Sustain and pass on the values of the kingdom
In traditional Chinese thought, there are three forms of immortality: establishing virtue, achieving great deeds, and leaving behind meaningful words. Christians are also taught to "store up treasures in heaven" and to "focus on what is unseen and eternal.“ So, how can tangible resources be managed and used in a way that sustains an invisible yet lasting impact?
When we broaden our perspective, we can develop a more expansive and long-term financial plan, such as managing risks and overseeing investment tools and strategies. For most people, with proper planning, their money will not run out in their lifetime. By doing so, they ensure financial stability for themselves, provide well for their families, and contribute positively to the overall social and economic system.
So how can we extend our influence? I've observed that many people leave assets for their children. The book "Don't Leave Your Money Until You Die" suggests providing financial assistance when children need it most, such as for a car down payment or a house deposit, rather than transferring accumulated wealth through inheritance. Currently, as average life expectancy gradually increases, by the time children receive the money, they are often approaching retirement age, with stable family and career development, and their need for additional wealth is not as great.
Is money really the only thing we can leave for our children? I believe that passing down values is even more important—how to measure the use of money, how to define a fulfilling life, and how to bless others financially in a way that pleases God. How can we practice restraint in spending while planning for the long term? How can we enjoy a comfortable life with gratitude without indulging in luxury? These lessons must be passed down through daily life. I hope to be an example for my children, showing them that eternal values can and should be lived out in everyday life. In doing so, they will continue to express love for God and be a blessing to others for generations to come.
Moreover, leaving all my money to my children may not necessarily be beneficial to them. I have experienced poverty, and if I have achieved anything today, it is because of God's provision and guidance, along with my own hard work. If children receive something without effort, will they truly appreciate it? Will they still have a heart of gratitude? There is a real risk that they may lose the training in faith and character, missing the opportunities God intends to use to shape them. I will provide for my children, but I also want to teach them to give. That is why I involve them in managing the foundation I established, guiding them to evaluate donation recipients and make thoughtful giving decisions.
The inequality of wealth in society is undeniable, so what can be done? The U.S. tax system actually encourages giving, promoting mutual support and cooperation for a healthier society. For Christians, the Bible teaches us to help those in need and care for the less fortunate—this is an act that pleases God. There are also organizations and individuals who dedicate their time and efforts to the gospel and the well-being of others without seeking material gain. If we align with their mission and have the resources, we can share the abundance that God has given us by supporting and encouraging their work.
My university classmate was deeply concerned about the decline of traditional Chinese theater in Chinese culture. She spent 30 years bringing it to the United States, establishing a theater, and teaching it at universities. Without people like her, how many precious art forms would disappear? Using tangible resources to preserve intangible culture is also a way to pass down values, and it is a cause worth investing in.
I am involved in the World Chinese Women Business Association, which includes an initiative called "Sisters' Fifteen Minutes", where members share their expertise to help those in need. This is another way to use resources effectively, allowing the impact to continue expanding.
God gives us a generous heart, but it is true that some may be in need and feel unable to give generously. This becomes a test of faith. When we plan and manage our finances according to God's will and principles, He will bless us abundantly. As God's children, let us remain in the Spirit, knowing that He is also within us, guiding us to see and pass on values that have a lasting impact.
My consistent belief is to use increased wealth to advance God's kingdom. By wisely managing the growing numbers on financial statements, we can expand His kingdom, glorify Him, and bless others. May you and I, with the heart of a steward, plan tangible resources with goodness, faithfulness, and wisdom so that invisible love and impact may be sustained for generations.
Further reading:
“Enhancing Wealth with a Steward’s Heart,” Stewardship section, Issue 75 (https://e-krc.org/article/steward-heart-enhancing-wealth/).
"How to Plan the Investment Process?" Stewardship section, Issue 20 (https://e-krc.org/article/investment-planning/). For more articles in the “Faith and Financial Stewardship” series, please visit the KRC website.
Notes
1. For more information about the preparation of "The Hudson Taylor Story" film, please refer to: https://www.halfcrownmedia.com/the-hudson-taylor-movie/.
2. For more information about the donation fund received by Albert Einstein College of Medicine, please refer to:https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/1-billion-donation-eliminates-tuition-at-new-york-medical-school-changing-students-livesThe annual tuition and fees are approximately 70,000 dollars, and the average student loan debt for graduates is 200,000 dollars.
Interviewee
Elder Mindy Ying, a senior investment and financial expert, has served as a senior executive and president at a banking and investment group, as well as the founder of a registered investment advisory firm. She currently serves as the Executive Director, Senior Vice President, and Financial Advisor at Wealth Enhancement Group. She is passionate about using her professional gifts to faithfully serve the church, seminary, gospel organizations, and the community year-round.