As to material sacrifices towards the welfare of the Cause, he wishes you to understand that the general interests of the Cause take precedence over the interests of the particular individuals. For instance contributions to the welfare of individuals are secondary to contributions towards the National and Local Funds and that of the Temple.
This is a general instruction. Of course helping the individuals in case one is able to help, is also desirable and merits appreciation.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 24 November 1925 to two believers; The Compilation of Compilations, vol. I, Baha’i Funds and Contributions)