The 1% Challenge: A Small Step Toward a Bigger Life

“Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” — Luke 6:38

There’s something beautiful about small beginnings. In a world that celebrates big leaps and dramatic gestures, Jesus often emphasizes small, faithful steps. That’s the heart behind the 1% giving challenge.

It’s not about fulfilling a religious quota or impressing God. It’s about expanding your faith and learning to trust Him more with your finances—one step at a time.

The Bible makes it clear: everything we have belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). He is the Owner, and we are the managers. Good managers handle what’s entrusted to them with wisdom, intentionality, and obedience.

But let’s be honest—giving can be tough.

Fear sneaks in. “What if I don’t have enough?” “What if an emergency comes up?” And for those already carrying financial burdens, the thought of giving more can feel impossible.

That’s why the 1% challenge matters. It’s not about overwhelming your budget. It’s about training your heart to trust God—step by step, on purpose, and with joy.

So, what is the 1% challenge?

  • If you’re not already giving, begin by giving 1% of your gross income.

  • If you’re already giving, consider increasing your contribution by 1% more.

  • Track it. Pray over it. Watch what God does.

This challenge isn’t just about money — it’s about transformation. It’s about loosening the grip of materialism and making space for peace, purpose, and deeper trust.

In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul writes:
“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will reap generously… God loves a cheerful giver… You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion.”

That’s not a formula—it’s a faith rhythm. When we give, we’re not just funding ministry—we’re joining God in His work.

And yes, giving is an act of worship. It declares, “I trust You, God.” It says, “You are my source—not my salary, not my savings, not my hustle.”

It’s about becoming more compassionate, more joyful, and more like Jesus.

Here's the invitation: start somewhere. Start small if needed. But just start.

1% isn’t much, but it might be the step that changes everything.

Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.
— Luke 6:38

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Beecher Wilhelm

Beecher Wilhelm brings a wealth of financial wisdom as a retired credit manager with an MBA from Syracuse University—but his impact doesn’t stop there. As a dynamic small group leader at his local church and a guest writer for Connect Home Life, Beecher combines faith and experience to inspire others. Whether he’s breaking a sweat at the gym, sharing laughs with family and friends, or discovering hidden gem eateries, Beecher lives life with purpose and passion.

To hear Beecher tell it: “I’m not a Bible scholar. Most days, I feel like I’m one step behind the groups I lead. But I show up—because grace showed up for me. I’m a recovering imposter, sinner saved by grace, still learning where the books of the Bible are. What I do know is this: Jesus uses the unqualified to reach the overlooked. So I open the door, make space for the unheard and unsure, and trust that when we show up with compassion, He does the rest. If you’ve ever felt unseen or unworthy, you’re exactly who I’m here for. Let’s figure it out together.”

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Freedom From Debt: Living Within God’s Design