Money Matters 2
Proverbs 21:20
Yesterday, we began an intriguing series on Money Matters, focusing on the importance of saving. Today, we delve into another critical aspect: investments.
Scripture says in
1 Timothy 6:10
New King James Version
10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Scripture states that the love of money is the root of all evil, not money itself. When one is willing to do anything or compromise on anything for money, that’s where the problem lies. Money should be seen as a tool for survival on Earth, something to be desired for comfort and security.
So dear believer, it is important not to view money as inherently evil. It should be desired but with pure motives.
Because money is crucial for survival and comfort, it is important to be wise in managing your finances.
Proverbs 21:20
New King James Version
20 There is desirable treasure, And oil in the dwelling of the wise, But a foolish man squanders it.
A wise person ensures they have reserves for tough times, understanding the importance of saving and investing during times of plenty. It is okay to say no to unnecessary expenses, prioritizing saving for investment opportunities.
A very important factor you must understand is that God is very much interested in your finances.
Scripture says in
Matthew 25:34-40
New King James Version
34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;
36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’
37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?
38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You?
39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’
40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’
The Bible, in Matthew 25:34-40, teaches that caring for others is akin to caring for God Himself. Therefore, even in your financial decisions, show love and honor to God by being responsible and compassionate.
One way you can make good financial decisions is by budgeting your finances, and allocating your income into different categories: spending, giving, saving, and investing. This helps you manage your money effectively and ensures you are able to fulfill your financial responsibilities while also being generous and preparing for the future.
A lot of times people prioritize only saving. Saving is a good start, but it is not enough. The goal is to save so that when opportunities arise, you have the capital to invest. Being prepared financially means you can take advantage of those opportunities when they come. Just as you are wise with your time, be wise with your finances as well, ensuring you are ready for those “Kairos” moments. Our goal should be that we get to a place where our financial stability is intact with or without our presence and that can be achieved via investments.
Matthew 25:24-28
New King James Version
24 Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.
25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’
26 “But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed.
27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.
28 Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.
Do not be like the servant who had one talent and buried it in the ground. He was rebuked for being unproductive and lazy. Use your resources wisely, including investing them to multiply their impact. Saving is a good start, but investing and multiplying what you have is equally as important.
In as much as investing is important do not just invest, be wise about it. Investing wisely involves taking calculated risks. Don’t rush into investments. Instead, carefully consider the pros and cons. Research thoroughly and ask questions. It is your money so you have the right to seek clarity and make informed decisions. Money can grow wings and fly away. It is therefore crucial to be intentional and cautious with risks. While being careful, don’t let fear paralyze you from taking necessary risks.
Conclusively, God is interested in every aspect of our lives, including our finances. Making sound financial decisions not only leads to personal comfort but also enables us to support important causes such as the propagation of the gospel through our partnership with the church. Look for ways not only to save but to multiply your resources as well.
Prayer Point:
Lord, I have wisdom on how to manage my finances more effectively. I am prudent in my spending and still save and invest. There is wisdom for me on the right things to invest in.