How can I know who to donate to?

from the old testament

• In the Old Testament, giving first supported the work of God’s house. The tithe was set apart for the Levites, who were devoted to temple service and teaching God’s Word (Numbers 18:21–24). This ensured that the spiritual life of the nation was sustained before other needs were addressed.
• God also commanded His people to care for the poor, the foreigner, the orphan, and the widow (Deuteronomy 14:28–29). For example, gleaning laws (Leviticus 19:9–10) ensured provision for those in need without removing the dignity of work. This shows that God’s design for generosity balanced compassion with responsibility.
• The prophets often linked giving with righteousness, condemning offerings that ignored justice and mercy (Isaiah 1:13–17; Amos 5:21–24). God rejected empty religious gifts when His people were neglecting the vulnerable or living in rebellion. This teaches that giving is not merely about meeting physical needs but about doing so in a way that reflects God’s truth.
• Proverbs commends generosity (Proverbs 11:24–25) but warns against unwise giving that enables destructive behavior (Proverbs 19:19). Biblical discernment means giving in ways that truly help rather than harm.

from the new testament

• The New Testament continues the principle that giving begins with the local body of believers. Paul directed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:13–14) and commended churches for supporting his ministry (Philippians 4:15–18). Supporting the local church ensures that those who lead are able to focus their energies on caring for God’s people rather than splitting their attention so that they can pay bills, buy food, and meet other daily needs that most people meet through their jobs
• After that, the New Testament encourages believers to give to meet urgent needs. For example, after Agabus told the early church about a coming famine, Scripture says, “So the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, to send relief to the brothers living in Judea” (Acts 11:29).
• Notice that the financial help in Acts 11 was directed to other believers. Galatians 6:10 sets the priority of doing good “especially to those who are of the household of faith.” This doesn’t mean not helping unbelievers, but it shows that helping believers should be the priority.
• Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:1–4 reminds us that giving should be done for God’s glory. He said, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 6:1). It can be tempting to let others know who you are helping, but it is “your Father who sees [what you do] in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:4b).
• While giving on the spur of the moment can be good and needed, Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 16:1–2 show that planned, regular giving should be the normal approach. That is, believers should be thoughtful and intentional in where they give.
• The New Testament warns against supporting those who oppose God’s truth. In 2 John, John was warning believers about false preachers. He said, “If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works” (2 John 10–11). So, believers are to be wary, making sure to not to aid false teachers.

implications for today

When considering who to donate to, believers’ first priority is their local church. This is the God-ordained place where you receive regular teaching, spiritual care, and accountability. Your pastors and leaders perform these duties best without the distraction of a second job. Helping to support them remaining in ministry shows them kindness and is a spiritual blessing to everyone they serve. Additionally, your church may also regularly support local and foreign missionaries, so your gifts help many people. Only after you have given faithfully there, should you consider who else to support.

When deciding where to give beyond your church, look for ministries and causes that align with Scripture, meet genuine needs, and operate with integrity. Determine whether the mission clearly honors Christ, helps those truly in need, and encourages responsibility rather than dependency.

Research the organization’s mission, leadership, and stewardship. Consider causes that extend gospel ministry, relieve suffering, and promote biblical justice. At the same time, avoid giving to groups whose work contradicts God’s truth, even if their cause appears noble on the surface.

Finally, make your giving an act of worship. Pray over your donations. You are a steward of God’s resources, so ask Him to multiply them for His glory. As you give, do so cheerfully and willingly, knowing that you are participating in His work. Wise generosity not only meets needs but also advances His kingdom and reflects His heart to a watching world.