A New Year’s Resolution
that Transforms

As the new year approaches, many of us set resolutions—goals for personal growth, self-improvement, and making positive changes in our lives. While goals like exercising more, eating healthier, or saving money are common, there’s one resolution that can have a profound, lasting impact not just on our own lives, but on the lives of others: cultivating a heart of generosity.

The Gift of Giving: Reflecting Gratitude for God’s Provision

At the heart of generosity lies an understanding of gratitude—specifically, gratitude for the abundance of blessings God has provided. Whether we recognize it or not, every good thing in our lives is a gift from God. Our health, our families, our talents, and even our material possessions are entrusted to us to steward wisely. The practice of giving—whether it’s our time, talents, or treasures—is an outward expression of this deep gratitude.

The Bible teaches us that God is the ultimate giver, and we are called to reflect His nature. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, we are reminded that “God loves a cheerful giver.” Giving is not meant to be an obligation or a begrudging task; it’s a joyful response to the abundance we’ve received. When we give, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from God, and in return, we give out of love and appreciation for His provisions.

How Giving Deepens Our Faith and Purpose

In 2025, let us embrace giving not only as a New Year’s resolution, but as a way to deepen our faith. The act of giving fosters a greater sense of community, purpose, and connection with those around us. When we give, we are participating in God’s work here on Earth, whether we’re supporting our local church, providing for those in need, or using our talents to serve others.

Generosity isn’t just about material gifts; it’s also about the gifts of time and talent. By volunteering at a food bank, tutoring children in need, or offering a listening ear to a friend, we become instruments of God’s love and grace. This kind of intentional giving strengthens our own spiritual lives, as it turns our focus outward and helps us build stronger, more supportive relationships within our communities.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Generosity in 2025

  1. Set Intentional Giving Goals
    Start the year by setting specific, measurable goals for giving. Decide how much of your income, time, and talents you will devote to charitable causes or service. Whether it’s committing to a monthly donation to your church or volunteering at least once a week at a local charity, having clear goals will help you stay focused and intentional in your generosity.
  2. Give Time and Talent
    If your financial resources are limited, consider how you can give your time or talents instead. Whether it’s mentoring a young person, organizing a community cleanup, or helping a neighbor with home repairs, your skills and presence can make a world of difference. Look for ways to get involved in your church or community center, where your talents can be put to use for greater good.
  3. Support Your Church and Charitable Causes
    Your local church and trusted charitable organizations are always in need of support, whether in the form of financial contributions or volunteer work. Prayerfully consider how you can increase your giving to these institutions in 2025. Start by creating a budget that includes regular contributions to these causes, understanding that your support enables them to fulfill their mission.
  4. Foster a Spirit of Generosity in Your Family
    Teaching your children or loved ones about the importance of generosity is one of the most impactful ways to ensure that this resolution becomes a part of your family culture. Spend time volunteering together, make donations as a family, or even create a “giving jar” where everyone can contribute change for a cause. In doing so, you build a legacy of kindness and compassion that will extend for generations to come.
  5. Reflect Regularly
    Take time throughout the year to reflect on your giving habits. Are you staying on track with the goals you set? How have you seen your faith deepen as a result of your generosity? Reflecting on these questions helps you stay motivated and allows you to adjust your giving as needed.

The Ripple Effect of Generosity

When we give, we not only meet the immediate needs of others but also create a ripple effect that touches lives far beyond our own. Generosity opens the door for deeper relationships, a more connected community, and a greater sense of purpose. It strengthens our faith, builds our character, and helps us focus on what truly matters.

So, as you set your New Year’s resolutions, consider making generosity one of your top priorities. Whether it’s giving financially, offering your time, or sharing your skills, let 2025 be the year you embrace a heart of generosity that will not only transform your life but the lives of those around you.

In the words of Dr. King, “We are all tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” Your acts of kindness and generosity are never isolated—they affect everyone. Let’s make 2025 a year marked by a spirit of giving, unity, and faith-driven action.


This article was submitted by Ivanna Cole, CPA, CGMA, Chief Financial Officer for the United Methodist Foundation, Inc. If you would like more information regarding UMF, please contact us at [email protected] or call (919) 836-0029.

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