What Should a Pastor Do With an Extra $500?
Let’s say you just received an extra $500 maybe from a tax refund, a speaking honorarium, or a generous gift.
If it was an honorarium, obviously you’d tithe. But then what?
If you just drop it into your checking account, chances are… it’ll disappear. A few groceries here, a dinner out there, and suddenly it’s gone.
But what if you did something intentional with it? What if you used it to create a win? What if you used it as a step forward that actually moved the needle?
Here are 5 smart things you could do with that extra $500:
1. Start or Build Your Emergency Fund
If you don’t have $1,000 set aside, this is where to begin. Emergencies aren’t a matter of if, but when. And having a buffer can be the difference between stress and stability.
Even just $500 in a separate savings account can give you breathing room the next time your tire blows out or your fridge gives up.
2. Knock Out a Small Debt
Have a credit card with a lingering balance? A small medical bill? A payment you’ve been putting off?
Use the $500 to pay it off and free up your monthly cash flow. That momentum can be motivating—and help you build toward bigger wins.
3. Fund a Ministry Dream
Maybe there’s a resource you’ve wanted for your team, or a missionary you’ve been meaning to support. Maybe you’ve had an idea for outreach that just needed a little seed money.
This could be your opportunity to take action on something that’s been on your heart.
4. Invest in Rest
You won’t hear this often on finance blogs, but here it is:
Take a short personal retreat.
Use the $500 to get away for two nights. Pray. Rest. Recharge.
It’s not indulgent. It’s wise leadership.
5. Jumpstart Retirement
You don’t need thousands of dollars to begin investing. You just need to start.
Open a Roth IRA or add it to your 403(b). Even small contributions build freedom over time. And if you’re a pastor, remember: distributions from a 403(b) in retirement can still qualify for housing allowance exclusion.
That’s a powerful benefit you don’t want to miss.
Final Thought:
You don’t have to do everything. But do something.
An extra $500 is an opportunity. What you do with it says a lot about your vision, values, and stewardship.
Choose wisely and choose on purpose
