Category Archives: Guiding Framework

Optimizing Life, Treasures In Heaven

The Joyful Act of Giving to God

Many times, people view giving to God as a chore, much like paying taxes to the government. Some give reluctantly, feeling obligated. Others do it to show off, while some claim they can’t afford to give anything—neither money nor time. However, there’s a special blessing reserved for those who give joyfully and generously to serve God.

Consider Jacob, who, after receiving God’s blessing, embarked on a journey in Genesis 28:10-22:

Jacob was on the move, away from his family due to a deceptive act against his brother, Esau. One night, he had a remarkable dream where he saw a ladder reaching from earth to heaven, with angels ascending and descending. God stood above it and made a promise to Jacob, affirming His presence and commitment to him.

Jacob awoke from this profound experience, declaring, “Surely the LORD is in this place!” Overwhelmed, he anointed a stone pillar, naming it Bethel, meaning “house of God.” Jacob also made a heartfelt vow, saying, “The LORD will be my God. This stone will be God’s house, and I will give a tenth of all He gives me.”

Jacob’s commitment to give joyfully didn’t stem from obligation or pride. He had experienced life without God’s guidance, leading to selfishness and deceit. His offering wasn’t just about money; it was a profound commitment to God, made long before he earned or experienced success.

Jacob’s heartfelt covenant with God went beyond finances, signifying his wholehearted dedication after a powerful encounter with God in a dream.

So, when you give, do it joyfully, not out of obligation. Offer your thanks and praise to God for His continued blessings and presence in your life. Take a moment to pray, inviting God to reveal Himself to you and fill your heart with gratitude and commitment to follow Him wholeheartedly.

May your finances be a tool for God’s work, and your journey toward financial wisdom be guided by His grace.

In stewardship and faith,

John Golda
—-
Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Guiding Framework, Plan Carefully and Seek Wise Advice, Stewardship

Heeding Biblical Wisdom for Financial Mastery

Are you tired of feeling like your money is slipping through your fingers, leaving you stressed and uncertain about your financial future?

Managing money effectively can be a daunting challenge in today’s world. From budgeting woes to investment uncertainties, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

But take heart, for there’s a timeless source of wisdom that can guide you toward financial success. Delve into the age-old wisdom of Proverbs, and discover the keys to mastering money, achieving financial stability, and securing a brighter future for yourself and your loved ones.

Instead of quickly skimming through the verses in Proverbs, let us pause and ponder, seeking to understand how the timeless wisdom contained within applies even in today’s world.

While circumstances change, and we now ride in cars instead of camels, the unchanging truths of God’s Word remain as relevant as ever.

Proverbs 23-27

      23Know well the condition of your flocks,
And pay attention to your herds;

      24For riches are not forever,
Nor does a crown endure to all generations.

      25When the grass disappears, the new growth is seen,
And the herbs of the mountains are gathered in,

      26The lambs will be for your clothing,
And the goats will bring the price of a field,

      27And there will be goats’ milk enough for your food,
For the food of your household,
And sustenance for your maidens.

These verses remind us not to be negligent or foolish in our financial matters. While our primary focus should always be on God rather than money, we are also called to diligence in our business affairs. “Know well the condition of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds.”

We need not accumulate excessive wealth to the point where we no longer rely on God, but instead, we should seek contentment with finances sufficient to provide for our needs.

However, this doesn’t mean we can simply ignore our finances and declare it as “faith in God.” Such an approach might resemble “putting God to the test.” When we are mindful of our financial affairs, we not only avoid becoming dependent on others for support but also position ourselves to be a blessing to those in need.

Let us strive for a balance between faith in God and responsible stewardship of our resources, guided by the timeless wisdom found in the Book of Proverbs. As we navigate our financial journey, may the grace and peace of the Lord be our constant companions.

 

Guiding Framework, Treasures In Heaven

Trust God to Help You Change Rather than Just the New Year

At the end of every year, it is a natural time for us to pause and reflect on the year just completed. We assess the year and identify areas where we feel we should make adjustments. Many people make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, stop drinking alcohol, or reduce spending. Although there is some positive psychology in leveraging the “new year” as a fresh start, it often falls flat for many. If you are not dedicated enough to change in June, you are not dedicated enough to change in January. Perhaps you have made some New Year’s resolutions this year. How is it going so far? I hope it is going well.

There is someone who can help us change. Our Lord has given us His written word in the Bible, He sent Jesus to come to live among us and to die for our sins, and He sends the Holy Spirit to dwell inside of those who submit to Christ. The Spirit guides and councils us, if we are willing to submit and listen. God can give us the foundation to frame up our life and the personal involvement to guide us throughout so long as we invest in our relationship with Him. His grace can give us real power to change… to turn away from things we should not be doing and to start doing things His way. Jesus died so our sins could be forgiven and we could have a “fresh start” anytime, not just in January.

Turn to the Lord in prayer. Study the Bible. Submit all aspects of your life to Him.

As far as a fresh start for finances… please consider the following and pray about its application in your life. If you struggle to get started or maintain momentum in January, get up again and try in February.

Guiding Framework for Managing Finances

God lays out important principles for managing finances in the Bible. He wants His people to be wise stewards of the resources He provides.

On this page we lay out a high level framework that  provides valuable insight for those who take time to genuinely understand and apply it. I have paired the elements of the framework with some of the scriptures that support them, but there are many other scriptures that could be added.

You can also check out our Resources section of the website for other organizations with a great depth of material on this subject.

1 – Earn Money: Develop a skill and work hard to generate income.

  • Colossians 3:23 – Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.
  • Proverbs 6:9-11 – But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep? When will you wake up? 10 A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— 11 then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.

2 – Control Spending:  Set a budget that matches your income and stick to it in order to control spending. This budget should include short term “monthly expenses” but also saving ahead for long term expenses like a house, university education, future medical expenses, retirement, and contingency funds for the unknown.

  • Proverbs 6:6-8 – 6 Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise! 7 Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, 8 they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter.

3 – Control Debt: Carefully consider any debt before committing.

  • Proverbs 22:7 – Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.
  • Romans 13:8 – Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another.

4 – Invest: Choose to invest your financial resources for growth. Don’t stuff your mattress with cash in hopes of avoiding risk.

  • Matthew 25:14-30 – Jesus teaches us through the parable of the talents. Click the link to read the scripture.
  • Ecclesiastes 11:1 – Send your grain across the seas, and in time, profits will flow back to you.

5 – Diversify Investments: Diversify investments to manage risks.

  • Ecclesiastes 11:2 – But divide your investments among many places, for you do not know what risks might lie ahead.

6 –Consider Carefully and Seek Wise Counsel: Whether choosing how you will earn income, how to control spending or debt, or how to invest to grow your finances you should carefully consider your strategy and seek wise counsel.

  • Proverbs 22:3 – A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.
  • Proverbs 15:22 – Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success
  • Proverbs 14:15 – Only simpletons believe everything they’re told! The prudent carefully consider their steps.

7 – Steward Your Financial Strategy: Once you establish your financial strategy you must periodically review and analyze all elements to ensure you are following it and it is effective. This applies to earning income, spending, debt, and investment.

  • Matthew 25:14-30 – Jesus teaches us through the parable of the talents not only that we should invest, but that a good steward periodically checks on the effectiveness of his investments and makes adjustments according to their performance.

8 – Ethics: Following God’s instruction in how we manage our finances is more important than the actual dollars themselves.

  • Proverbs 22:1 – Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.
  • Proverbs 22:5 – Corrupt people walk a thorny, treacherous road; whoever values life will avoid it.
  • Ecclesiastes 12:13 – That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty.

9 – Do Not Be Greedy: To those who love money, they will never have enough. Money is a tool to serve God and to support yourself and your family. The draw to “get rich quick” brings much risk.

  • 1 Timothy 6:10 –  For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.
  • Ecclesiastes 5:10 – Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness!

10 – Store Up Treasure in Heaven

  • Matthew 6:20 – Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.
  • 2 Corinthians 9:7 –  You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”
  • Proverbs 22:9 – Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor

Remember, the new year is a good time to get a fresh start psychologically. If it helps, go for it! But if you find yourself struggling to maintain your resolution, put your trust in God and try again in Feb and in Mar and so on. You don’t have to wait for the next new year to experience victory.

Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Optimizing Life, Treasures In Heaven

Heartfelt Spending: A Divine Partnership in Finance

Have you ever felt the gentle tug on your heart, urging you to give more than you’re comfortable with, especially when it comes to your finances? Our loving Father cares about how we spend our money, not out of need or desire for obedience, but because He wants our hearts. He seeks a profound and personal relationship with each of us, grounded in love and trust.

Open your heart to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, especially in financial matters. There are moments when the Lord may ask you to contribute more than seems practical or aligns with your budget. It’s in these instances that He invites us to join Him in a work already underway—an opportunity to be a vital part of His plan.

Much like a parent inviting their children to assist with household tasks, our Father delights in our participation. While He could accomplish His goals without us, He prefers to work with us, finding joy in our collaboration.

In Exodus 25:1-9, the Lord instructs Moses to gather contributions for the sanctuary. It’s a call for offerings, not out of obligation but from those whose hearts are moved. The materials specified are diverse, reflecting the beauty of a united community coming together for a shared purpose.

It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel uneasy about giving generously and fully surrendering their finances to the Lord. If this resonates with you, take a moment to submit to Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you in this area. Embrace the glorious opportunity to participate with God in what He is already doing. Don’t decline His invitation, thinking there’s something more worthwhile or just because you desire to accumulate more wealth.

Remember, God desires your heart, and when you trust Him with your finances, you enter into a divine partnership that goes beyond monetary transactions—it’s an investment in a relationship that brings eternal returns.

May the grace and peace of the Lord be with you as you embark on this journey of heartfelt spending.

In stewardship and faith,

John Golda
—-
Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Optimizing Life, Plan Carefully and Seek Wise Advice, Treasures In Heaven

Investing in God’s Kingdom: A Call to Diversify Your Portfolio

Have you ever considered diversifying your financial portfolio to include investments in the work of our LORD? In the hustle and bustle of managing our finances, it’s easy to overlook the immense value of contributing to the kingdom of God. It’s a form of diversification where treasures don’t rot or rust, where investments are stored up in heaven.

Luke 8:1-3 offers a profound example of this principle in action. As Jesus traveled from city to city, proclaiming the kingdom of God, there were not only the twelve disciples by His side, but also women—Mary Magdalene, Joanna (the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward), Susanna, and many others. What’s striking is that these women weren’t just passive observers; they were actively contributing to the support of Jesus’ ministry out of their private means.

Consider this: Jesus, with His divine power, could have easily made money appear when needed (as demonstrated when He paid the temple tax with a coin from a fish’s mouth – Matthew 17:27). However, He chose a different path. He wanted to showcase the beauty of believers actively supporting one another in the proclamation and preaching of the kingdom of God. There is a time to give and a time to receive.

If you’re already engaged in the work of the LORD, don’t shy away from accepting support from those who wish to partner with you in your ministry or activities. It’s not just about financial transactions; it’s about fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility in spreading the gospel.

So, as you manage your financial affairs, take a moment to seek the LORD prayerfully. Set aside a portion of your resources to support kingdom work. Just as in earthly investments, diversification is key. Invest not only in your earthly future but also in the eternal future that awaits, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal (Matthew 6:20).

Remember, there is immense joy and fulfillment in actively participating in God’s work, both in giving and receiving. As a body of Christ, let’s embrace the call to share the gospel, supporting one another and investing in the kingdom of God. May your financial endeavors align with God’s plans, bringing blessings not only to you but to His kingdom.

May your wealth be a tool for God’s work, and your journey toward financial wisdom be guided by His grace.

In stewardship and faith,

John Golda
—-
Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Generate Income, Greed, Optimizing Life, Treasures In Heaven

Love and Trust in Money? or God?

Have You Ever Felt the Weight of Trusting in Money?

Have you ever found yourself placing your trust in the promises of wealth? It’s a common narrative in our world—a story where financial success seems synonymous with security and self-sufficiency.

But here’s the twist: this path, often paved with high salaries and apparent confidence, may not be the steadfast foundation we perceive it to be.

Join me in exploring a truth that resonates beyond the material façade—a truth that transcends the transient nature of riches. Let’s delve into a profound Psalm, inviting a perspective shift that redirects our trust from the fleeting promises of wealth to the unwavering embrace of our Heavenly Father.

In the pursuit of wealth, the danger lies not in money itself but in our relationship with it. As Matthew 6:24 warns, we cannot serve both God and wealth. The love of money, described in 1 Timothy 6:10, can lead to various evils and griefs, steering us away from our faith.

Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.”

1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

In contrast, true peace and joy emerge not from accumulating riches but from building a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. As Psalm 23 beautifully illustrates, our Shepherd guides us to green pastures and quiet waters, restoring our souls. In Him, we find comfort, abundance, and an unwavering source of peace.

Psalm 23

1The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not want.

2He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.

3He restores my soul; he guides me in the paths of righteousness  for His name’s sake.

4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me; your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.

6Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Let this be our parting wisdom: prioritize the pursuit of a rich spiritual life over the relentless chase for material wealth. Treasure the moments of prayer and study, allowing God’s guidance to lead you in paths of righteousness. Embrace Psalm 23 as your guide, trusting that goodness and lovingkindness will follow you all the days of your life.

May your wealth be a tool for God’s work, and your journey toward financial wisdom be guided by His grace.

In stewardship and faith,

John Golda
—-
Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Ethics, Greed, Optimizing Life

Setting the Ethical Compass: A Guiding Light in the Business Realm

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, the question isn’t just “can we?” but rather, “should we?”

The compass guiding our ethical decisions extends beyond the realm of laws written by men; it finds its true north in the unchanging standards defined by God.

Proverbs 22:1 reminds us that a good name is more valuable than great wealth, emphasizing the enduring importance of ethical conduct. Proverbs 22:5 cautions us about the thorns and snares on the path of the perverse, urging us to guard ourselves against unethical practices. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 echoes the sentiment, underlining the accountability we hold before God for every hidden act, be it good or evil.

As we navigate the complex terrain of business decisions, let’s not wait until the moment of choice to define our ethical standard. By proactively establishing a framework based on God’s principles, we pave the way for decisions that honor not just legality, but the higher calling of morality and compassion.

Consider this:

Will your pursuit of profit overshadow the well-being of those you serve?

Will you uphold truth and integrity, or succumb to the allure of deceptive gains?

The answer lies not just in the legality of actions but in the reflection of a well-defined ethical standard based on God’s word.

Let’s be architects of a business culture that echoes Proverbs 22:1 – valuing a good name over immense wealth, and recognizing that favor far surpasses silver and gold.

May the grace and peace of the Lord be with you. Remember, the compass of integrity points beyond legality; it aligns with the timeless standards set by God.

Before you close , I invite you to reflect on the ethical standards you hold.

Share your thoughts, discuss, and seek wisdom in the company of trusted friends or family.

Let your journey towards God’s standards of excellence be a shared endeavor, fostering growth, and understanding.

May our businesses reflect not just prosperity but a commitment to ethical principles that withstand the test of time. 🌐💼

👇 Share your reflections below and engage in meaningful conversations with those you trust. Let’s build a community of ethical leaders! 👇

—-
Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Optimizing Life, Treasures In Heaven

In God We Trust… Not in the Illusion of Refuge in Money

Have you ever found yourself entrapped in the illusion that more wealth equates to lasting security?

It’s a seductive narrative weaved into the fabric of our culture – a narrative that Psalm 49 compellingly unravels.

Join me in a journey of profound reflection as we challenge the very essence of where we anchor our trust. 💰🕊️

Psalm 49 – The Folly of Trusting in Riches

The psalmist addresses people from all walks of life, emphasizing the transient nature of both the rich and the poor. They challenge the prevailing notion that material abundance ensures safety.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture.)

Psalm 49

The Folly of Trusting in Riches.

For the choir director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.

     1Hear this, all peoples;
Give ear, all inhabitants of the world,

      2Both low and high,
Rich and poor together.

      3My mouth will speak wisdom,
And the meditation of my heart will be understanding.

      4I will incline my ear to a proverb;
I will express my riddle on the harp.

      5Why should I fear in days of adversity,
When the iniquity of my foes surrounds me,

      6Even those who trust in their wealth
And boast in the abundance of their riches?

      7No man can by any means redeem his brother
Or give to God a ransom for him—

      8For the redemption of his soul is costly,
And he should cease trying forever—

      9That he should live on eternally,
That he should not undergo decay.

      10For he sees that even wise men die;
The stupid and the senseless alike perish
And leave their wealth to others.

      11Their inner thought is that their houses are forever
And their dwelling places to all generations;
They have called their lands after their own names.

      12But man in his pomp will not endure;
He is like the beasts that perish.

      13This is the way of those who are foolish,
And of those after them who approve their words.

Selah.

      14As sheep they are appointed for Sheol;
Death shall be their shepherd;
And the upright shall rule over them in the morning,
And their form shall be for Sheol to consume
So that they have no habitation.

      15But God will redeem my soul from the power of Sheol,
For He will receive me.

Selah.

      16Do not be afraid when a man becomes rich,
When the glory of his house is increased;

      17For when he dies he will carry nothing away;
His glory will not descend after him.

      18Though while he lives he congratulates himself—
And though men praise you when you do well for yourself—

      19He shall go to the generation of his fathers;
They will never see the light.

      20Man in his pomp, yet without understanding,
Is like the beasts that perish.

Key Reflections:

  1. Wealth Cannot Redeem Souls: No amount of riches can redeem a soul. The cost is too high, and no one can ransom another before God. Earthly wealth cannot secure eternity.
  2. Temporal Nature of Riches: Despite the illusion of permanence, even the wise and wealthy face mortality. They cannot carry their riches beyond death. Earthly glory fades away. Both the rich and the foolish face the inevitability of death. In the end, material wealth offers no permanent refuge. It is but temporary
  3. Eternal Value of Trust in God: Trusting in wealth is likened to the folly of beasts that perish. In contrast, trusting in God transcends mortal boundaries. God alone can redeem our souls from the power of Sheol.

Implications for Our Lives: As we navigate the complexities of wealth, let’s be mindful of its temporal nature. Instead of placing unwavering trust in earthly riches, let’s recognize money as a tool that can either bless us or become a distraction.

Practical Steps:

  1. Align Priorities: Consider what truly matters beyond material possessions. Align your priorities with eternal values rather than temporary gains.
  2. Stewardship: Use wealth wisely as a tool for God’s purposes. Be a good steward, recognizing that money, while valuable, is not the foundation of our security.
  3. Eternal Perspective: Cultivate an eternal perspective. In moments of financial success or struggle, remember that our ultimate security lies in God, who redeems us from the power of Sheol.

In a world fixated on wealth, let’s heed the timeless wisdom of Psalm 49. Money, though useful, is fleeting. Our trust and security find their true foundation in God.

Reflect on these verses, and share your insights or questions in the comments.

Together, let’s build a perspective anchored in the eternal. 📖🙏

—-
Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Control Debt, Control Spending, Optimizing Life, Saving

Avoid The Christmas Hangover – Spending, Debt, and Stress

Christmas is a holiday with many competing areas of focus. Some manage to stay focused on the Lord, but there are many distractions.

Some focus on family, but one can easily get caught up in a month long stress about the “perfect holiday” and “who is or is not coming” and “do we have the perfect gifts for everyone”, etc.

I have seen people who strive to genuinely follow Jesus yield a month of every year to stress associated with the Christmas holiday, and almost none of it is focused on actually celebrating Christ.

Others get lost in debt, convinced by marketing and our culture that to celebrate Christmas requires spending lots of money, often money they don’t have. For the record, even “good discounts” cost you money unless you were going to buy that item anyway. It costs even more if you buy other stuff along with the thing that was on sale. That is why the companies selling you things run the sales… to make money, not to save you money!

Often this debt creates stress that lasts for months after Christmas is over as the credit card bills roll in.

Rather than waiting for that after Christmas “hangover” to set in along with the credit card bills and extra 5 pounds you put on by eating too much… consider challenging some of the holiday cultural norms.

1. Cut Down Your Gift List

Buying gifts for everyone you know is not necessary. Instead of buying gifts out of obligation for many with whom you are not close, just make a point to be nice to them all year round. Treat them with kindness and sensitivity and they will know you care for them even if you do not give them a gift.

If they only like you when they receive a gift, then they are not really your friend anyway. If you are concerned that they will buy for you and you will not have something for them, just have a real conversation with them about managing your expenses and budget responsibly and encourage them not to give something to you.

If they are not close enough to you to have this conversation, then why are you even exchanging gifts with them? In some cases, it may be very important to someone close to you to exchange gifts… go ahead if you want to.

2. Set a Reasonable Budget

Contrary to advertising… you do not need to buy a car, a diamond, gold jewelry, expensive electronics, etc. for people just because it is Christmas. If you don’t show them that you love them throughout the year, you will not fool them with an expensive gift in December.

For those with whom you want to give or exchange presents, you can set a reasonable budget for each person and then stick to it. This helps you set your overall Christmas budget in a predictable instead of impulsive way.

3. Plan Ahead and Avoid Credit Card Debt

Once you decide who you will get gifts for and how much to spend, you have a good estimate for your budget planning. Now divide by 11 and start saving it each month starting in January and continuing through November. Inevitably you will still have surprise expenses in December from the season’s activities, so you don’t plan on taking money for gifts from that month’s budget.

4. Redirect the Spirit of Giving

You can even consider replacing your current gift exchange traditions with a donation to a charity or family in need… someone you can give to in God’s name with no hope of receiving a gift in return. You will spend less money and honor God more.

If you find yourself condemning me as “Grinch”… I do not mind. You are not alone, but you are in fact also not correct. If Christmas is all about giving and getting gifts as the centerpiece and focus, then it has nothing to do with Jesus Christ and is simply a pagan festival where people want to get a lot of expensive stuff from each other.

The alternative is to recognize that gifts are intended not as the focus, but as a means of showing those closest to us that we were thinking of them. That does not require spending lots of money, despite what our culture would have us believe.

Besides, you can  give gifts to those you love any time during the year… it does not have to be at Christmas.

Dispelling Misconceptions about Gift-Giving and Examining Biblical Truths

Many tell us that giving gifts is a tradition originated to honor God’s gift to us in the birth of Jesus Christ or because of the acts of the real man who came to be known as Saint Nicholas. Though many give with this in mind, the fact is that this is not the accurate origin of gift exchange. In fact, gift giving to children in late December did not start with Christian origins, but rather as part of a pagan celebration of the sun god, Saturnalia, in ancient Rome. It is easy to research for yourself… even in Christian history encyclopedias such as by Zondervan.

Let’s explore the gift giving tradition further and test if it is even consistent with celebrating Jesus’ birth according to the principles of the Biblical record of that glorious event. Does this tradition point to or honor God, or is it just a tradition of men and a potential distraction from God?

Mary and Joseph did not get gifts for one another or even for Jesus and they knew who He was and that He would be born soon.

The shepherds came to celebrate and honor God. They did what they were commanded by God to do… which did not involve bringing gifts.

The wise men did not even come when Jesus was born… contrary to common tradition.  Scripture tells us they came and found Jesus in a house, not a manger. Herod killed all the male children two years and younger… not a week and younger, or even a few months and younger. It was likely they arrived over a year after Jesus was born. When they did come, they brought gifts to honor God. They did not exchange gifts with each other, nor did they expect to receive gifts in return from Joseph and Mary.

I should not fail to mention that God came down as Jesus to die for us and while this is a great gift, He expects no gift from us in return.

So if you really want to focus on giving gifts to honor Christian traditions… give in a way that honors God to those who will not be able to give anything in return. You will honor God more, find more joy and peace instead of stress, and spend less.

Wrapping up

If suggestion number 4 seems overwhelming… start with suggestions number 1-3. The less focus you put on gift exchange, the more focus you will find is available to consider God’s gift to us in the person of Jesus Christ. You will have more time and less stress to enjoy the holidays and hopefully you will not have the Christmas “hangover” in January.

Yours in Christ,

John

Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Greed, Optimizing Life

Traversing Life’s Banquet: A Proverbial Feast of Wisdom 🔍

In life’s grand banquet, not everyone offering a seat at their table is to be taken at face value. Some extend invitations with a smile while harboring hidden resentments. As we navigate this complex social feast, Proverbs 23 serves as a profound guide, offering insights into discerning conduct, financial prudence, and the pursuit of godly wisdom.

Key Lessons from Proverbs 23:

  1. Dining with Discernment:
    • Before sitting at the table of influence, carefully consider what is before you. Proverbs 23:1 urges us to approach relationships and engagements thoughtfully, recognizing that not every offered delicacy comes with pure intentions.
  2. The Illusion of Wealth:
    • The pursuit of wealth can be deceptive. Verse 4 advises against wearying oneself solely for material gain. The transience of wealth is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of a balanced perspective on financial pursuits.
  3. Guarding Against Selfishness:
    • In the company of those whose hearts are not aligned with generosity, exercise caution. Verse 6 warns against partaking in the offerings of a selfish individual whose outward hospitality may mask inner motives. Genuine intentions should accompany shared meals.
  4. Discipline and Wisdom:
    • The passage underscores the value of discipline and the pursuit of wisdom. Applying one’s heart to discipline and ears to words of knowledge (verse 12) sets the foundation for a wise and discerning life.
  5. Living in the Fear of the LORD:
    • Proverbs 23:17 emphasizes the importance of living in the fear of the LORD. This reverence shapes our conduct and decisions, guiding us away from envy and towards a future anchored in hope.
  6. Avoiding Excess:
    • Caution against indulgence is prevalent throughout the chapter, from advising moderation in wine and food consumption (verses 20-21) to highlighting the consequences of lingering too long over excess (verse 30).
  7. The Value of Truth and Wisdom:
    • The chapter concludes with a powerful call to acquire truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding. This pursuit, likened to buying precious commodities, is a lifelong investment that brings joy to parents and, ultimately, to the individual.

Practical Application: Navigating Life’s Banquet

  1. Discernment in Relationships:
    • Thoughtfully assess relationships, ensuring alignment with values and intentions. Not everyone extending an invitation has pure motives.
  2. Financial Prudence:
    • Be cautious of the deceptive allure of wealth. Weigh the true cost of pursuing material gain and seek a balanced perspective on financial pursuits.
  3. Generosity Over Selfishness:
    • Choose companionship marked by genuine generosity. Avoid partaking in the offerings of those whose hearts are not aligned with selflessness.
  4. Commitment to Discipline and Wisdom:
    • Embrace discipline and actively seek wisdom. Apply your heart to continuous learning and align your life with godly principles.
  5. Living in Reverence:
    • Foster a life anchored in the fear of the LORD. Let this reverence guide your decisions, leading away from envy and towards a future filled with hope.
  6. Moderation and Avoiding Excess:
    • Exercise moderation in all aspects of life, from consumption to indulgence. Steer clear of the pitfalls associated with excessive behaviors.
  7. Investing in Truth and Wisdom:
    • Recognize the value of truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding. Make a deliberate investment in acquiring these precious commodities for a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

Closing Reflections: A Life Aligned with Wisdom

As we navigate life’s banquet, let Proverbs 23 be a compass guiding us through the intricacies of relationships, financial decisions, and the pursuit of wisdom. Seeking God’s counsel in every aspect of our lives ensures that our actions align with His principles. In claiming to follow Christ, let our lives be a harmonious testimony to His teachings, illuminating the path for others to discover the grace and wisdom found in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 🌟📖🍽️

—-
Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .