Compassion and Integrity test

Welcome to The Bible Money Journal, a brief for Christian professionals who want to learn more about God’s ways of managing money. In each edition, I share a verse, a story, and a money lesson to help you in your journey.

This brief is a resource for navigating the scriptures through the lens of financial planning and learning how to apply them in your life.

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Leviticus 19:9-11, 13
9 “When you harvest the crops of your land, do not harvest the grain along the edges of your fields, and do not pick up what the harvesters drop. 10 It is the same with your grape crop—do not strip every last bunch of grapes from the vines, and do not pick up the grapes that fall to the ground. Leave them for the poor and the foreigners living among you. I am the Lord your God.
11 “Do not steal. Do not deceive or cheat one another.
13 “Do not defraud or rob your neighbor. Do not make your hired workers wait until the next day to receive their pay.

Today, we dive into the ancient wisdom found in Leviticus and bring its profound lessons into the context of modern financial planning, investment management, taxes, and estate planning. I'll explore how the teachings of Leviticus concerning caring for the poor and foreigners, the importance of integrity, and the prohibition of theft, cheating, and deception can inform our financial decisions.

A Call to Compassion and Integrity

Leviticus reminds us of our moral duty to care for the less fortunate, to uphold integrity in our dealings, and to treat our neighbors and workers justly. Let's uncover the financial insights hidden within these timeless teachings.

Caring for the Vulnerable – In Leviticus, there is a resounding call to care for the poor and the foreigner in our midst. This echoes the importance of not only securing our financial future but also using our wealth to make a positive impact on those in need.

The Pillars of Financial Integrity – Leviticus sternly advises against stealing, cheating, or deceiving one another. This translates to the imperative of conducting our financial affairs with utmost honesty and transparency. It's a reminder that financial success should never come at the expense of others or our integrity.

Practical Steps Towards Financial Integrity and Compassion

Let's move from theory to practice. How can we incorporate these ancient teachings into our everyday financial decisions?

Compassionate Financial Planning – Review your financial goals and allocate some of your resources to charitable giving. Whether supporting local charities, sponsoring a child's education, or contributing to causes that matter to you, make it a part of your financial plan.

Upholding Financial Integrity – Integrity is non-negotiable. Ensure all your financial dealings are transparent and honest. If you have questions about the ethics of a financial decision, seek guidance from an advisor who shares your commitment to integrity.

For example, you can work with a tax professional to optimize your tax strategies within the bounds of the law, ensuring you pay your fair share while enjoying legitimate deductions and credits.

Conclusion

In the timeless pages of Leviticus, we uncover a wealth of wisdom that transcends millennia. The call to care for the less fortunate, to maintain integrity in our financial dealings, and to treat our neighbors and workers justly remains as relevant today as it was in ancient times.

As you navigate the intricacies of financial planning, investment management, taxes, and estate planning, remember that your choices extend beyond your financial well-being. They can impact lives and foster compassion in our communities.

Please reach out if you're ready to explore how these principles can be woven into your unique financial journey. Together, we can build a financial future that reflects not only your prosperity but also your compassion and commitment to integrity.

Leo Marte is a Christian financial advisor and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. Abundant Advisors provides financial advice for Christians with convenient virtual meetings. Let’s talk if you are ready to make the next move.