https://youtu.be/CF6wivQrP4s These five financial mistakes are common in churches of every size. Thom and Sam discuss five “don'ts” of church finance. Correcting these mistakes often yields immediate and measurable results in the financial health of the congregation. Not providing multiple giving options. Not having a plan for deferred maintenance. Not having ample cash reserves. Not doing zero-based budgeting. Not making the ask of top donors. Resources: * Upward Sports * “Life Application Study Bible” * “Life Application Study Bible” For All Times * Tyndale House Publishers * “Where Have All the Church Members Gone?” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link) * Church Answers Platinum Membership * Church Answers Central The Everything Church Resource Directory * The Hope Initiative * Get your FREE tool! Attendance Growth Projector Episode Sponsors: Who is Upward Sports? * Upward Sports is the World’s largest Christian youth sports organization, dedicated to partnering with local churches to use sports outreach to reach the community. * Upward Sports offers basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, and soccer as a league offering. * When partnering with Upward Sports, your church can reach the community, attract young families, and share the Gospel. * Upward Sports will customize your sports outreach strategy to support your church budget and community needs. We know one size does not fit all. * Are you looking to engage new families, bless your community, or mobilize your congregation to serve? Consider adding sports ministry in 2025. If you have a gym, field space, or even access to a facility consider Upward Sports. * Now is the time to consider using sports as your 2025 outreach ministry! Schedule a call to learn more about launching a first-class, organized, intentional league in the new year! * Visit https://www.upward.org/ChurchAnswers/   From Knowing to Living: Life Transformation with the Life Application Study Bible Experience profound transformation as you encounter God through the pages of the Life Application Study Bible. Bible engagement is not just about knowing Scripture; it’s about living it out! The Life Application Study Bible deepens your connection with God and inspires a transformed life through a growing relationship with Christ. Crafted by dedicated scholars and pastors,