Category Archives: Stewardship

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.

 

Control Spending, Stewardship

Navigating Budget Leaks: Benjamin Franklin’s Wisdom 🚢

In the vast sea of budgeting, it’s easy to dismiss the significance of small expenses, letting them slip through the financial cracks. Many of us nonchalantly spend $5-10 here and there without considering the cumulative impact. However, at the end of the month, the revelation of these seemingly inconspicuous expenses can be surprising.

Let’s take a simple example: grabbing a $5-10 meal for breakfast and lunch each weekday. That seemingly modest routine can quickly swell to over $200-400/month, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Benjamin Franklin once shared a timeless piece of wisdom that vividly illustrates this financial phenomenon:

“Beware of little expenses. A small leak will sink a great ship.”

Just as a small leak in a boat can spell disaster for even the mightiest ship, those seemingly insignificant expenses have the potential to sink a budget. While it’s prudent to initially focus on trimming the sails of larger expenditures, it’s equally crucial to scan the financial horizon for where these smaller, consistent leaks may be occurring.

Navigating the Financial Seas: Tools and Techniques

Consider using financial management tools like Quicken to diligently track these small expenses. Monthly reflections can reveal surprising patterns and highlight areas where seemingly trivial habits are creating budgetary holes. If using software feels too intricate, a simple review of credit card statements, categorizing and totaling those minor expenses, can provide a clear snapshot of spending habits.

🔍 Patching the Holes: A Call to Action

  1. Awareness is Key:
    • Acknowledge that small leaks can have a significant impact on your budget. Awareness is the first step towards effective financial management.
  2. Track and Analyze:
    • Use tools or manual methods to track small expenses. Whether it’s your morning coffee or a quick snack, documenting these expenditures can shed light on areas for improvement.
  3. Review and Adjust:
    • Regularly review your spending patterns. Identify categories where small expenses accumulate and assess whether adjustments can be made without sacrificing lifestyle quality.
  4. Embrace Change:
    • Small changes in spending habits can yield substantial results. Consider brewing coffee at home, bringing lunch to work, or exploring cost-effective alternatives without compromising enjoyment.

⚓ Safeguarding Your Financial Ship:

Just as a vigilant captain addresses potential leaks to keep their ship afloat, proactively managing small expenses is integral to financial stability. Let Benjamin Franklin’s wisdom serve as a compass, guiding you through the vast seas of budgeting. As you navigate, patch those holes, and ensure your financial ship sails smoothly towards your desired destination. ⚓💰

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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, Stewardship

Smart Spending: Prioritize the Big, Save Big

Hey savvy savers! 💰✨ When it comes to cutting expenses, it’s not just about clipping coupons or switching to generic brands. Dive into the bigger picture by focusing on major expense categories first.

This approach, known as Pareto analysis, ensures you tackle the areas with the most significant impact on your budget.

🔍 Message: Begin by identifying your major expenses—housing, transportation, and long-term commitments. Remember, owning assets means not just their cost but also maintenance expenses.

Pare down your list, organizing from largest to smallest, and prioritize slashing costs in the bigger categories. Don’t ignore the small expenses, but don’t let them distract you from significant savings in larger areas.

The key is distinguishing between wants and needs. Set your budget based on income and long-term objectives before deciding what you can afford. Avoid the common pitfall of starting with pricey desires and then fitting them into your budget.

💰 Financial Wisdom: Say no to debt! Saving up for significant purchases like a house or car requires discipline and long-term planning, but it saves you a ton in the end. Patience and contentment are virtues that pay off. This goes for credit card debt too—avoid it like the plague. Remember, all you have belongs to God; manage your money His way.

Here are several common areas where families in the USA tend to have high spending:

Housing Costs:

    • Rent or Mortgage: Housing is often the most significant expense for families. Monthly rent or mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners’ association fees, and maintenance costs can add up quickly.

Transportation:

    • Car Payments: Many families have car payments, and with the desire for newer models and additional vehicles, transportation costs can become substantial.
    • Fuel and Maintenance: Beyond the car payment, fuel, insurance, regular maintenance, and unexpected repairs contribute to high transportation expenses.

Healthcare:

      • Insurance Premiums: Health insurance premiums, whether through an employer or independently, can be a major monthly expense.
      • Out-of-Pocket Costs: Co-pays, deductibles, and expenses not covered by insurance can quickly accumulate, especially for families with frequent healthcare needs. 

Education:

        • Tuition and School Fees: For families with children, private school tuition or higher education costs can be a significant financial burden.
        • Education-Related Expenses: Books, school supplies, extracurricular activities, and other education-related costs contribute to the overall spending.

Debt Payments:

    • Credit Card Debt: Families may accumulate credit card debt, and high-interest rates can result in substantial monthly payments.
    • Student Loans: For those who pursued higher education, student loan repayments can be a long-term financial commitment.

It’s important for families to carefully assess these areas and create a budget that allows for necessary expenses while also planning for savings and unexpected costs.

⚖️ Call to Action: Challenge yourself to reevaluate your expenses. Distinguish wants from needs, prioritize the big-ticket items, and resist the allure of debt.

Share your tips and insights in the comments to inspire others on their journey to financial freedom.

💻 Resource: Explore more about managing money God’s way at GrowGodsMoney.org. Let’s cultivate financial wisdom together!

#SmartSpending #BudgetWisdom #FinancialFreedom #ParetoPrinciples

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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 Spending, Optimizing Life, Stewardship, Treasures In Heaven

Stewardship: A Divine Perspective on Finances

Hey everyone! 💰✨ We all understand the importance of responsible resource management. We wouldn’t hand over our checkbooks without a second thought, expecting others to spend without aligning with our values and purposes. So, why do we sometimes struggle to grasp that God cares deeply about how we handle the resources He entrusts to us?

💡Just like we manage our businesses and families with purpose, God desires us to steward His blessings in a way that aligns with His will. Let’s dive into the divine perspective on finances.

💼 Whether it’s a company or a family, limited resources require careful management. We appreciate those who use resources wisely and correct those who do not. Consider your own checkbook – would you hand it over without caring how it’s spent? God cares about how we manage all aspects of our lives, including our finances.

God’s ownership of everything is emphasized in Psalm 24:1, stating, “The earth is the LORD’S, and all it contains, The world, and those who dwell in it.” Just as a business owner entrusts their possessions to employees, God entrusts us with His resources, expecting us to steward them faithfully.

In Luke 20:21-25, Jesus reminds us to render to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s. Our financial decisions are a reflection of our submission to God’s authority. In Proverbs 3:9-10 and Malachi 3:10, we’re encouraged to honor God with our wealth and tithes, experiencing blessings when we do.

The parable of the talents in Matthew 25 reinforces the importance of faithful stewardship. The master rewards those who use their talents wisely and rebukes the one who hides his. It’s a powerful reminder that God expects us to invest, not hoard, the resources He provides.

💬 Friends, have you submitted all your finances to be stewarded on behalf of God, or are you holding back for personal purposes? Let’s discuss in the comments.

Share your experiences and reflections on managing your resources to further the kingdom of God.

🌱 Invitation: Take a moment to reflect on your financial decisions. Are they aligned with God’s principles? Share your insights and tag someone who could benefit from this divine perspective on stewardship.

Let’s encourage each other on this journey of responsible and purposeful financial management!

#DivineStewardship #FaithfulFinances #GodsResources #KingdomBuildingWealth

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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, Investing, Optimizing Life, Stewardship, Taxes

Vote Wisely: This Decision Could Impact Your Income By 10-20% Or More

What if I told you that a single decision could impact all of your earning potential, savings, and investing by 10-20% or more? A wrong decision moves toward reducing your income, and a good decision moves toward increasing your income. You would immediately want to know what it was and how to learn more about it.

In the United States of America, we have the honor of voting in elections to select who takes many of our public offices at the local, state, and national levels. Elections have consequences and voting matters… a lot!

Our country was founded by Christians who were seeking freedom to worship God freely and Biblically, out from under any tyrannical rule of a king. Freedom was important… and so often not truly achieved.

It is very important to understand that the USA was not founded as a democracy, in which a majority of people can vote for whatever they want, including taking the wealth and possessions of the minority. Instead, God guided our founding fathers to establish a wonderful form of government known as a constitutional republic.

We do in fact participate in voting to elect representatives to the national government, but just as important is the US Constitution, which is in place to limit the power of the national government. The intent was to have a small national government doing the bare minimum (such as providing for the common defense… that’s the military) and not getting involved in impinging on the freedom of the states and the people.

Now we have a huge, stifling, mass of national government bureaucracy that tells us even how much water our toilet can flush and what kind of light bulbs we must use or cannot use.  We have fallen a long way and given up much freedom. The Constitution is constantly under attack from those who wish to redefine it and consider it a “living document”, which means essentially… “as long as we can get judges to say it means something else, then it does”. This approach is wrong.  The founders put in place a management of change process for the Constitution… and it is not simply getting people in black robes to say it means something else today than it did a few hundred years ago. It is called constitutional amendments. The process has been used many times, but not recently. The Constitution means what it says until we follow the process to change it. That is the only way to protect the individual rights of the people and the founding fathers knew it! It is supposed to be hard to change!

Not only does the national government continue to grow and impinge on personal liberty, but it continues to spend money it does not have at an increasingly alarming rate… on things it should not be involved in managing and does not manage well. To pay for this, the national government always says we need to spend more money on more government programs and raise taxes or go so far into debt we will never get out. Even if they print enough money to pay off the debt, the money we have will fall in value because of the extra money printed. Our purchasing power plummets! If a business was run this way, the same government would probably throw the business leader in jail.

America was founded as a land of opportunity! Those who work hard can improve their family’s standard of living over multiple generations or sometimes even in a single generation. This is harder and harder to do as the government gets bigger and taxes more and puts in place more regulations and more burdens like healthcare programs for which they have no constitutional authority, despite what a ruling of the Supreme Court may say.

Elections have consequences.   It all ends up affecting your ability to earn income with liberty, to keep what you earned rather than giving it to a government to waste, to save and invest freely and rely on God and the talents He gave you rather than relying always on the national government.

For those who want to get everything for free with someone else’s money… there is not enough of “someone else’s money” to pay for everything you want you will always be beholden to the national government to get by. You basically make yourself a voluntary dependent (e.g. like a child) of the government. On the other hand, many of us want to keep our freedom and the fruits of our labor. We want a small national government and a return to the protection of our personal liberty provided by the US Constitution. We trust in God and ourselves to work hard and get ahead. If we fail, we own it, and we get back up and try again. We don’t expect someone else to always pay our bills or cover our mistakes. We are accountable to God for how we use what He has given us in this life, whether time, talent, or treasure.

I encourage active participation in elections, not only by voting but also by influencing those around you. Research the truth. Do not trust what politicians say, but rather judge by the fruit of their lives as the Bible instructs us. Do not be lazy and believe what TV network news shows tell you, for they are decidedly leaning toward big national government and less individual freedom. The same is true for most social media sites today. Instead, seek out the truth diligently on the internet. Search out confirmation from multiple time-tested, reliable news sources. (You can’t trust everyone’s blog, either.) We are to test everything and discern truth from lies. If someone is constantly changing positions when it suits them, then you know they have no principle. They are political chameleons, and you cannot trust them except to look out for their own best interests. If they are honest but their plans will bankrupt our country worse than today… you may be able to trust them, but you are voting for disaster and loss of freedom. Look for those whose past actions and accomplishments line up with what they say and line up with what God’s word says. Seek those who strongly support the protection of individual rights provided by the Constitution… for ultimately it is your rights they protect!

How much harder it is to manage your personal finances when the government always takes more and more from what you earn, what you spend, what you invest, and even what you own when you die! What good is it to earn and save and invest if the government can just come and take what they want from whom they want?

Elections have consequences. Get involved today and don’t stop trying to influence your elected officials once they get into office. Remain engaged!

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Stewardship

Mastering Your Financial Strategy: The Key to Long-Term Success

Once you build your financial strategy (e.g. income, spending, debt, savings, investing, etc.) you should determine a frequency upon which you will revisit elements of your strategy to ensure you are following it and that it is effective. This is called stewardship.

Some elements need a higher frequency than others to ensure you are on course or to identify areas you can improve your strategy and effectiveness in managing your finances.  You can decide the frequency, but it is important to come back and steward.

A great example is in spending. Once you set a budget and spending targets, which should also translate to a savings target, you need to evaluate how you are performing vs. that target and identify if you need to make further adjustments to your spending to meet the target you set out. If you consistently overspend your target and are unable to meet your savings target, you need to evaluate your spending and make changes… either to the spending or the targets.

Even revisit spending on major recurring expenses like home insurance, car insurance, phone bills, television and internet service. You may be surprised by how much you can save by shopping around and comparing providers once a year or by periodically testing if you are ready to reduce your service to a less expensive alternative. In some areas, you can even switch utility providers to save money… and the electricity or gas still comes through the same line, managed by the same company it did before… you just pay less and write a different name on the check every month!

The same is true for debt or investment. An important example with debt would be someone who has mortgage on their home. If you re-evaluate and find that the mortgage rates have decreased, you may consider re-financing and saving money by enjoying a lower rate of borrowing on your mortgage.

The concept is simple… but often missed.  Once you establish your financial strategy, you must come back and evaluate if you are following it and if it is effective. Test the major elements within your expenses, debt, and investing even if you are meeting target… you may be able to do better still! Use this stewardship to help you make adjustments to continue improving your strategy and your execution of the strategy.

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Control Debt, Control Spending, Ethics, Generate Income, Greed, Investing, Optimizing Life, Plan Carefully and Seek Wise Advice, Saving, Stewardship, Treasures In Heaven

Biblical Guiding Framework For Financial Freedom

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

In this article, we lay out a high-level framework that provides valuable insight for those who take the 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 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

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Greed, Guiding Framework, Stewardship, Treasures In Heaven

The Earth Is the LORD’s: Live as Stewards of God’s Blessings

It is easy for us to think of the money or the assets (e.g. home, car, etc.) as “ours”. However we do well to keep our mindset consistent with God’s word, the Bible.

The earth is the Lord’s and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it. Psalm 24 reminds us that all things and all people belong to God. He created all things and is master of all things.

Psalm 24

A Psalm of David.

1The earth is the LORD’S, and all it contains,
The world, and those who dwell in it.

2For He has founded it upon the seas
And established it upon the rivers.

3Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD?
And who may stand in His holy place?

4He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
Who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood
And has not sworn deceitfully.

5He shall receive a blessing from the LORD
And righteousness from the God of his salvation.

6This is the generation of those who seek Him,
Who seek Your face—even Jacob.

7Lift up your heads, O gates,
And be lifted up, O ancient doors,
That the King of glory may come in!

8Who is the King of glory?
The LORD strong and mighty,
The LORD mighty in battle.

9Lift up your heads, O gates,
And lift them up, O ancient doors,
That the King of glory may come in!

10Who is this King of glory?
The LORD of hosts,
He is the King of glory.

Creation itself declares His glory.

Psalm 19:1 1The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.

God reminds us that everything belongs to Him, including us and all we own! The way we spend our time and money, the way we treat people, our own motives and attitudes should all reflect God’s instruction revealed in the Bible and through the example of Jesus’ earthly ministry. Discussing a tithe can be a meaningful discussion, but God owns it all, not just a part. God holds us accountable for how we use all of our time, talent, and money, as demonstrated in the parable of the talents.

Matthew 25:14-30 

      14“For it is just like a man about to go on a journey, who called his own slaves and entrusted his possessions to them. 15“To one he gave five talents, to another, two, and to another, one, each according to his own ability; and he went on his journey. 16“Immediately the one who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and gained five more talents. 17“In the same manner the one who had received the two talents gained two more. 18“But he who received the one talent went away, and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.

      19“Now after a long time the master of those slaves came and settled accounts with them. 20“The one who had received the five talents came up and brought five more talents, saying, ‘Master, you entrusted five talents to me. See, I have gained five more talents.’ 21“His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’

      22“Also the one who had received the two talents came up and said, ‘Master, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have gained two more talents.’ 23“His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’

      24“And the one also who had received the one talent came up and said, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow and gathering where you scattered no seed. 25‘And I was afraid, and went away and hid your talent in the ground. See, you have what is yours.’

      26“But his master answered and said to him, ‘You wicked, lazy slave, you knew that I reap where I did not sow and gather where I scattered no seed. 27‘Then you ought to have put my money in the bank, and on my arrival I would have received my money back with interest. 28‘Therefore take away the talent from him, and give it to the one who has the ten talents.’

      29“For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away. 30“Throw out the worthless slave into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

I encourage all of you who wish to honor God with your lives to do a simple exercise over the next week or weeks. Start today. Keep track of how you spend your time. For example… sleeping, eating, playing, shopping, watching sports, studying the Bible, praying. Compare how much time you spend doing each type of activity. Using this data, review where you spend your time. How much time do you invest in your relationship with God? Does the data confirm that He is really a priority? or an afterthought you squeeze in when you have time. How does that make you feel? What changes should you make?

Try the same exercise in reviewing your monthly expenses. Where do you spend your money? Are you stewarding it for God? This does not mean just writing a check to a church. Often we can be better stewards than many churches if we work at it. Make sure you know how your money is being spent when you give it to someone, even in churches and ministries. Is it lost in administration cost? or actually following the commands of God? To be good stewards, we must take time to evaluate how we give as well as how we spend for ourselves. I like to put money aside every paycheck to do the Lord’s work specifically. Then when I see the chance to help others in need, I can do so easily and joyfully in Jesus’ name. I also give to support churches and ministries, but only after I fully evaluate each one.

What talents has God given you? List them out. Are you using them for God? If not, write down three ways you could do so. Which one will you pursue first?

I like to repeat this evaluation periodically, maybe once every three months at first and once a year later on after you have been doing it awhile.

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

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

The Ant And The Grasshopper – The Rest Of The Story

The environment and attitude in which we work and live, whether dictated by government, business, or within our own family, has a great influence on how we as a individuals and as a culture perform. It can help bring out the best in us or the worst.  We should consider this when selecting where we live and work and also when we have the opportunity to influence or guide the leadership of any of these institutions. We should seek first the kingdom of God and all else will fall into place. When we put our faith in the teachings of God and submit our lives to His principles we make the world a better place.

There is a well known, timeless fable of an ant and a grasshopper that goes something like this:

The fable concerns a grasshopper that spent the summer singing instead of working and saved nothing despite food being plentiful. He consumed everything he gathered with no thought of the future. The ant, on the other hand, worked hard and saved extra food to plan for winter. He made a plan and followed it rigorously, even when it looked like the grasshopper was having more fun while he was working hard.

Winter arrives and the grasshopper finds himself dying of hunger and begs the ant for food. The ant rebukes its idleness and tells it to dance the winter away now.

There are multiple versions of the fable, but the primary version ends with the ant basically letting the grasshopper die and casting even sarcastic words at him with no compassion. Most Christians would agree that the grasshopper was lazy and is now dealing with the consequences of his actions. However, the response of the ant also reveals that the ant does not reflect a Christian worldview, but a selfish one, content to gloat as the grasshopper dies.

There are many alternate endings we could explore, but I will limit myself to two in order to make a point. Both assume that the current ending has in itself a problem we would like to solve.

Alternate Ending 1: Government Must Solve the Problem, [continuing from where the fable left off above]

The other insects in the garden heard how rude the ant was to the grasshopper and came and took what the ant had and gave much of it to the grasshopper calling it “justice” and “equality”. The ant still had enough to get by… in fact he had the same amount as the grasshopper. Both survived winter, but in the following summer the ant, being clever, decided to disregard hard work and rely instead on the insects in charge to meet his needs when winter came by taking from others. When the next season came, there was no food because no one had worked hard and both the ant and the grasshopper died.

Alternate Ending 2: God Has Already Created A Solution, [continuing from where the original fable left off]

A praying mantis heard about the ant and the grasshopper and came to see the ant. He shared the gospel of Christ with the ant and the ant realized that he too made many mistakes, like the grasshopper, but his mistakes were different… like lack of compassion for others. The ant gave his life to Christ and then revised his plans. He learned that if he prepared well, worked hard, sacrificed, and saved… he would be in a position to give to help others. He did not need to be forced to give, but rather he wanted to give freely, as Christ had given so much to him.

The ant met with the grasshopper and shared his personal testimony with him. He then voluntarily gave the grasshopper some food to help him through the winter. Instead of giving half of what he had to the grasshopper, he gave only enough and also taught the grasshopper about hard work, planning, saving and stewarding preparations for the future. The grasshopper listened because he knew the ant cared for him.

When the next summer came around the grasshopper had learned much and because of the voluntary kindness of the ant in the name of Christ the grasshopper gave his life to Christ. They worked hard together and saved extra food in order to help others in the coming winter season. They planned well, worked hard, sacrificed and saved. When winter came they were able to help many insects.

Government taking from those who work hard to give to those who do not creates a dependence on the government. It does not really help those in need over the long term and it removes God from the equation making it a “right” or expectation for someone to receive something instead of them being grateful to God or His provision. When we voluntarily give in the name of God we show His grace and love and can lead many to Christ. But we truly help them when we teach them how to fish instead of giving them a place to come ask for a fish every day.

Does your financial plan and stewardship prepare you to give to those in need in the name of Christ? Or will you instead have just enough for yourself?

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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 .

Blessing or Curse, Generate Income, Optimizing Life, Plan Carefully and Seek Wise Advice, Saving, Stewardship

God’s Blessings and Financial Stewardship: Lessons from Jacob’s Imperfect Journey

Sometimes I am amazed where I find insight in God’s word for a given topic. I was reading about Jacob in Genesis. We get insight to see Jacob from beginning to end in his relationship with God. It struck me that like so many of us, as he lives out his life and grew more and more committed to God, He did so quite imperfectly… like all of us who try to serve God.  Genesis 30 documents many mistakes, and the consequences of those mistakes on Jacob and his family. God, however, has not removed His blessing or promise from Jacob and Jacob prospers financially. There are a few important nuggets to consider in his attitude during a tough spot in his life.

Genesis 30:25-43

   25Now it came about when Rachel had borne Joseph, that Jacob said to Laban, “Send me away, that I may go to my own place and to my own country. 26“Give me my wives and my children for whom I have served you, and let me depart; for you yourself know my service which I have rendered you.” 27But Laban said to him, “If now it pleases you, stay with me; I have divined that the LORD has blessed me on your account.” 28He continued, “Name me your wages, and I will give it.” 29But he said to him, “You yourself know how I have served you and how your cattle have fared with me. 30“For you had little before I came and it has increased to a multitude, and the LORD has blessed you wherever I turned. But now, when shall I provide for my own household also?” 31So he said, “What shall I give you?” And Jacob said, “You shall not give me anything. If you will do this one thing for me, I will again pasture and keep your flock: 32let me pass through your entire flock today, removing from there every speckled and spotted sheep and every black one among the lambs and the spotted and speckled among the goats; and such shall be my wages. 33“So my honesty will answer for me later, when you come concerning my wages. Every one that is not speckled and spotted among the goats and black among the lambs, if found with me, will be considered stolen.” 34Laban said, “Good, let it be according to your word.” 35So he removed on that day the striped and spotted male goats and all the speckled and spotted female goats, every one with white in it, and all the black ones among the sheep, and gave them into the care of his sons. 36And he put a distance of three days’ journey between himself and Jacob, and Jacob fed the rest of Laban’s flocks.

37Then Jacob took fresh rods of poplar and almond and plane trees, and peeled white stripes in them, exposing the white which was in the rods. 38He set the rods which he had peeled in front of the flocks in the gutters, even in the watering troughs, where the flocks came to drink; and they mated when they came to drink. 39So the flocks mated by the rods, and the flocks brought forth striped, speckled, and spotted. 40Jacob separated the lambs, and made the flocks face toward the striped and all the black in the flock of Laban; and he put his own herds apart, and did not put them with Laban’s flock. 41Moreover, whenever the stronger of the flock were mating, Jacob would place the rods in the sight of the flock in the gutters, so that they might mate by the rods; 42but when the flock was feeble, he did not put them in; so the feebler were Laban’s and the stronger Jacob’s. 43So the man became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks and female and male servants and camels and donkeys.

Laban realized that he was blessed because of association with Jacob, who serves God. Jacob, despite his mistakes, has been a witness to Laban and Laban wishes him to stay. Before we give Laban too much credit, though, his reason for wanting Jacob to stay is selfish and greedy. He has financially prospered with Jacob. Laban shows no interest in worshipping or serving God or even thanking God.

Jacob, however also realized that he needed to begin investing not only in Laban’s flock but also in preparing for his own household for the future.  Jacob was willing to leave without pay other than the wives (and children) he had agreed to previously… even though Laban’s flocks have clearly prospered under Jacob’s care. Jacob demanded nothing extra, and was willing to leave with only his agreed upon wages (e.g. his wives and children) and God’s promise. He did not demand more than he agreed to just because Laban had prospered. He did not resent Laban and wish him ill because of his success.

However, God made a way for Jacob to prosper from his hard work helping with Laban’s flocks for those fourteen years. When Laban suggests Jacob name his price, Jacob finds wisdom in a solution that meets both his need and Laban’s, so he stays. Jacob tends the flocks and prospers exceedingly.

Each of us should consider…

  • Am I planning responsibly for my future needs and those of my family similar to Jacob?
  • Do I trust God to provide for me, adhering to His principles and values?
  • Do I keep my word and live up to my agreements? or do I demand more from someone just because they prosper from the work I agreed to do?
  • Do I resent someone else’s success or am I satisfied with the wages I agreed to?
  • Of course it is also acceptable when our agreements have concluded to negotiate for better terms in the future based on the quality of our work. If all parties agree, we have a new agreement. If not, we should not resent the other, but just make a different choice to pursue our goals… just as Jacob was willing to leave. At no point did Jacob think of Laban as an enemy.
  • Do I recognize that if / when God blesses his people in financial matters it seldom comes overnight or without hard work, faith, and planning? Jacob, like Abraham before him, trusted God and worked hard over many years to generate his wealth. God blessed his hard work and it was fruitful. God does not reward laziness or lack of faith.

Yes, we can still get much wisdom to apply for our lives by reading and studying the Bible, all of it. I encourage you to spend time every day in God’s word. I have found it to be very fulfilling in my life and my relationship with God.

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .