By Sarah Koontz
All of my life, I’ve been a giver.
I enjoy being the one who has an abundance to share and little need to receive from others.
But now, by the grace of God, I find myself in the position of the receiver more often than I would prefer.
I feel good when I give.
I feel guilty when I receive.
Maybe you can relate?
God’s grace is required when we give; God’s grace is required when we receive.
Neither is more noble or honorable than the other.
They are just different! And they are both essential aspects of Christian service.
And the one thing we must always remember, whether we are giving or receiving, is that everything we have is from God, for God, and unto God.
Let us embrace the work of giving and receiving for God’s glory!
Our 2024 Impact Report contains an overview of how our free Bible study resources equip Christian women to explore the beauty of God’s design for their lives.
We pray the stories, statistics, and strategy you see in this article inspire you to invest in this vital kingdom work.
The heartbeat of this ministry is to give without cost from the spring of living waters. We believe that God’s Word is an overflowing spring of life-giving water.
The Bible illuminates the way to the Father, reveals the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and teaches us how to make the most of the life God has given us. It is a free gift to all who seek its peace, power, and provision.
We currently have seventeen free Bible studies available on-demand through our ministry website.
Core Values
We believe that God’s Word is the only source of absolute truth in a world that praises tolerance and ambiguity. Therefore, we exist to create biblical resources that help Christian women:
1. KNOW THE TRUTH: Our free Bible study resources equip and inspire Christian women to diligently study and faithfully apply biblical truth to their lives.
2. BE TRANSFORMED BY THE TRUTH: Our free Bible study resources build a bridge between professing Christians and the life-changing power of God’s Word.
3. SHARE THE TRUTH IN LOVE: Our free Bible study resources help Christian women grow in maturity and equip them to lovingly share their faith with others.
2023 Impact Report: By the Numbers
We deliver tens of thousands of Bible study e-mails to inboxes every single week and maintain a 46% open rate.
63% of our users find us through organic search, 65% use mobile devices, and 60% of our readers visit multiple pages.
67% of our readers are from the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia. 14% of our readers are from Africa and 8% are from Asia.
We reached more than 1 million people through our social media platforms in the past year.
Impact Stories
“I cannot begin to explain how grateful I am for your studies. I’m kind of new to learning the Bible and am unable to attend church as I care for my 91-year-old mother with dementia. So, this really helps me. Thank you so much, and God bless everyone involved in helping others grow.” – Joni
“I’m crying. I really needed this message. I’m thanking God for your ministry today. This is not the first time—so many times, Sarah. It’s like you’ve been walking alongside me on my path, showing up when I need help.” – Linda
“Thank you for all the Bible studies you’ve written. I’ve been absolutely devouring them, and I’m so grateful that God gave you that vision! My favorite one so far is the Ephesians study. Thank you!!!”” – Ann Mary
“Thank you so much. Your article answered once and for all the question and fear of whether I was REALLY a Christian, as I would make mistakes, sin, and question my own salvation. I wondered how God could still love and forgive me despite my seemingly constant failures. THANK YOU for giving me blessed assurance, and God bless you.” – Denny
“Journey to Humility was a great study. I’m grateful for how God is working through you to teach, encourage, and grow us in our walk and service. I pray that you are reaching those who are still seeking answers as well. I have truly been blessed and convicted through this study. Again, thank you for your faithfulness in serving God in this area.” – Caroline
I lack words to express how grateful I am. I am inspired and motivated by your convictions, and I am determined, amidst the pain and confusion, to remain steadfast—studying, praying, and doing what God has called me to do toward world evangelization and Kingdom expansion. I will finish strong and finish well. I pray that the Lord will find me aglow with the Spirit and serving Him wholeheartedly. I am so blessed to walk this faith journey with you. Thank you! I am overwhelmed with thankfulness and appreciation. I am ready for the next recommended Bible study, JoyFULL.” – Rose
2024 Impact Report: Financials
We view our donors as partners and ambassadors of Living by Design Ministries. Thank you for joining us in the fight for Bible literacy worldwide.
In 2024, we received financial donations from 150 families. Your faithful financial gifts came from all 50 states and 18 different countries. Thanks to your generosity, we raised 38% of our full operating budget this calendar year.
This year, we were able to pay 37% of staff salaries. Praise the Lord for His continued provision for this vital ministry!
We are so grateful for the 37 individuals who donated to our free Bible study ministry for the first time in 2024 and for the 15 families who set up recurring donations this past year.
Thank you for giving so we can continue to give.
After months of prayer, reflection, and tears before God, I’ve decided to scale back my work at Living by Design to make room for deeper involvement in local ministry.
While I’m deeply grateful for this online ministry, I feel called to be more present in my local community moving forward.
To create space for me to follow His guidance while protecting the mission and vision of Living by Design, we must streamline our operations. Here’s what you can expect moving forward:
What will continue in 2025:
- I will oversee our content team, customer service, and website management.
- The ministry will continue providing free Bible studies and weekly blog posts.
- We will continue receiving financial gifts but will have no new fundraising campaigns.
What will pause in 2025:
- Our Prayer Wall
- Saturday SOULfood emails
- The Giving by Design Program
- Creation of new Bible study content
Keeping our free Bible studies and faith-filled articles online remains a top priority. To ensure their longevity, I’ve assembled an incredible team to support our programs and care for our community.
I will continue to serve the ministry in a part-time administrative role.
I truly believe God is still working powerfully through Living by Design, and I would be honored to have you remain part of this mission.
Your gifts help keep our Bible studies free, our articles accessible, and our ministry thriving.
Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and partnership in sharing God’s Word!
Sarah Koontz
President of Living by Design Ministries
