Faith-Based Fundraising: From Fear to Joy

Leading a nonprofit is more than a job—it’s a calling. And when that nonprofit is faith-based, you carry more than an organizational mission.

You carry spiritual weight.

That’s what makes faith-based fundraising so unique—and at times, so intimidating.

I’ll never forget how it felt over 15 years ago when I first stepped into fundraising. I was full of passion for the mission and confident that God was calling me to take a leap of faith to launch a nonprofit. But when it came to actually asking others for financial support?

I was completely terrified.

“What if they say no?“

"What if they think I’m just in it for the money?”

“What if I have no idea what I’m doing?”

If any of that resonates with you, you’re not alone.

Overcoming Fundraising Fear

Over time—through trial, prayer, and learning to trust—what once felt intimidating has become one of the most fulfilling parts of my work. The fear didn’t vanish overnight, but I discovered how to lead through it instead of being led by it. And most importantly, I saw firsthand that it wasn’t up to me to convince anyone. God was the one who moved hearts and produced the results.

I remember a time when we desperately needed a van to transport residents to their appointments. I had spent months reaching out to potential donors, making ask after ask, and hearing nothing in return. I was so discouraged. Finally, in a moment of desperation, I turned to God in prayer and simply poured out my frustration.

As I sat in that quiet place, God brought a specific donor to mind—someone I had never spoken to directly and who was fairly new to our organization. It didn’t make logical sense, but I felt clearly that I was supposed to call him.

So I did.

To my surprise, the donor answered and said, “I was just thinking about you—I was planning to reach out to see how I could be more helpful.” When I mentioned our urgent need for a van, he responded immediately: “I’ll send a check to cover it.”

I was stunned—but not surprised. That moment reminded me again that God is always working, even when we can’t see it.

If you’re feeling fear around fundraising, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck there. Over the years, I’ve learned that shifting your perspective can make all the difference.

Here are a few mindset shifts that have helped me move from fear to joy in fundraising:

1. Shift from Asking to Inviting

When you truly believe in the eternal impact of your mission, it changes how you approach conversations. You’re not just asking for money. You're inviting people to be part of something meaningful and lasting. That shift lifts the pressure. You're not selling; you're sharing.

2. Remember You’re Not Alone

God never called me to be the provider. That’s His job. Mine is simply to be faithful. That truth has grounded me through every season of uncertainty—even during times when I wasn’t sure we’d make payroll at the nonprofit I founded. And yet, God never missed a beat. He showed up again and again, reminding me that the outcomes were never mine to control—only the obedience was mine to control.

3. Lead with Stories, Not Just Stats

When I first began fundraising, it was for a safe home for teen girls rescued from sex trafficking (a home that could only serve six girls at a time). I often worried that those numbers wouldn’t feel significant enough to potential donors. But, I quickly learned that stories were what truly resonated. Sharing one girl's journey of healing and restoration carried more weight than any statistic ever could. Stories connect people to the heart of your mission and that’s what moves them to act.

4. Focus on Relationships, Not Just Revenue

Some of the most meaningful connections in my life have come through fundraising. Supporters have become mentors, prayer partners, and trusted friends. When you see donors as partners in the mission—not just dollar signs—they feel it. And they stay.

5. Reconnect with Your “Why”

When fear creeps in, revisit your calling. Remind yourself who you’re serving and why you said yes in the first place. Reflect on what God has already done through your mission. That clarity will renew your courage.

Fundraising isn't always easy, but it's always holy. Every conversation is an invitation for someone to step into God’s work.

So if you’re tired or afraid right now, take heart.

Keep showing up.

Keep trusting.

Keep leading.

And watch what God will do through you.