How Biblical Principles Can Guide Your Financial Decisions 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.
Let’s get started!
Genesis 14:21-24
21 The king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give back my people who were captured. But you may keep for yourself all the goods you have recovered.”
22 Abram replied to the king of Sodom, “I solemnly swear to the Lord, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, 23 that I will not take so much as a single thread or sandal thong from what belongs to you. Otherwise you might say, ‘I am the one who made Abram rich.’ 24 I will accept only what my young warriors have already eaten, and I request that you give a fair share of the goods to my allies—Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre.”
Today’s story covers an interesting encounter between Abram and the King of Sodom. Abram has just returned from rescuing his nephew Lot and defeating a coalition of kings who had attacked the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. As Abram and his men returned home, the King of Sodom came out to meet him and offered him a share of the spoils of war. However, Abram refused to take anything from the King of Sodom.
As a Christian financial advisor, there are several valuable lessons that we can learn from Abram's response to the King of Sodom:
Integrity and honor should guide financial decisions
Abram's refusal to take any spoils of war from the King of Sodom is a powerful example of integrity and honor in financial decision-making. He recognized that accepting these gifts could create the perception that the King of Sodom had made him rich rather than acknowledging that God had provided for him. Even worse, it may have led others to believe he was a common warlord or mercenary for sale to the highest bidder.
Prioritizing integrity and honor in financial decisions can lead to long-term benefits, such as better business relationships, more opportunities, and greater financial security. It can also motivate you to be more generous and fulfill a sense of purpose.
Faith in God is essential to financial success
Abram's refusal to take any spoils of war from the King of Sodom was based on his faith in God as the true provider of his wealth. He recognized that God had given him the ability to succeed in battle and accumulate wealth, and he was committed to acknowledging God's provision in all aspects of his life.
I encourage you to cultivate a similar faith in God as the ultimate provider of your wealth. This means developing a long-term financial plan that is rooted in biblical principles and guided by a deep sense of trust in God's provision.
Pray regularly for wisdom and guidance in your financial decision-making and cultivate a sense of gratitude for the resources that God has provided. These will lead to a greater sense of peace and contentment. You will develop a healthier perspective on wealth and material possessions, recognizing they are temporary and that true fulfillment and security come from a relationship with God.
Develop a financial plan that is rooted in biblical principles
I believe financial planning should be guided by a deep understanding of God's principles for stewardship and generosity. This means helping clients to develop a long-term financial plan that is aligned with their values and goals. It considers their current financial situation, risk tolerance, and future needs. By developing a comprehensive financial plan rooted in biblical principles, clients can gain confidence and peace of mind knowing that their financial decisions are aligned with their faith and values.
Emphasize the importance of generosity and giving
We must emphasize the importance of generosity and giving. This means giving generously to the church and other charitable organizations and viewing our wealth as a tool for blessing others rather than as an end. By cultivating a generous spirit and a cheerful heart, you can experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from serving others and making a positive impact in the world.
By prioritizing integrity and honor in financial decision-making, cultivating a deep sense of trust in God's provision, and emphasizing the importance of generosity and giving, we can achieve true financial success and fulfillment in accordance with biblical principles.
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.