Q.  Can I really live on a missionary’s salary?

A.  This depends on your definition of living. Will you be able to drive a Hummer to work? No. However, living on a moderate salary does not mean you'll have to pander for recyclables and bathe at the YMCA. In most Christian organizations your income will allow for a sufficient amount to give cheerfully to the Lord's work (2 Corinthians 9:8), as well as adequately meet your daily needs, educate your children, and provide for your retirement.

Almost 67 percent of the more than 420 mission organizations require their staff members to develop their own financial support, which are more than 67,000 people who live on vocational ministry salaries! In The Impact Movement, for example, each staff member's salary is evaluated annually in light of the Consumer Price Index and, if necessary, adjusted to the rising cost of living.

In addition to salaries, a number of other expenses may be covered through reimbursements (insurance and ministry expenses). Plus a group insurance plan provides staff members with full health coverage for personal injuries and sickness; and a life insurance and pension program is designed to meet individual needs and give families a reasonable level of security. It is the philosophy of Impact in financial matters that a staff member should be free to minister without undue financial pressures.

”The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way. When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, because the LORD is the One who holds his hand. I have been young and now I am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his descendants begging bread. All day long he is gracious and lends, and his descendants are a blessing. “ Psalm 37:23-26 NASB