We all, especially believers, can use some common sense finance principles every now and then. Believers are singled out in this piece because there’s a narrative in the Christian community that paints money as something not planned for.
“God will provide,” some believers say rather than apply commonsensical principles to get their finances in order. This should not be. Money is a necessary commodity in this world because of the power it wields.
And as believers, we should seek to be in possession of money so that we can use it for godly purposes. If we don’t, people of the world will possess and use it to advance devilish agendas. We have a lot to lose if limited by money.
As believers, we should seek to be in possession of money so that we can use it for godly purposes. If we don't, people of the world will possess and use it to advance devilish agendas. Click To TweetSo, in the light of getting our money right, here are six (6) common sense finance principles for the believer:
1. Save
After interpreting Pharaoh’s dream, Joseph did not pray about the famine. He came up with plans to save for it. Do you have emergency funds? God will not stop a famine or a recession because you are His child. Endeavour to make plans for rainy days. (Proverb 21:20)
When you make money, learn to expand your mind concerning it’s possibilities. Don’t be foolish and spend it all in one place. Sounds harsh, right? Now you realise how serious this matter of saving is.
2. Invest
You may be prayerful but learn to invest too. If it’s unfamiliar terrain for you, start by taking intentional baby steps. Open a dollar account. Buy treasury bills. Get financial advice. Create an investment portfolio. Avoid ponzi schemes.
“But divide your investments among many places, for you do not know what risks might lie ahead.” Ecclesiastes 11:2 NLT
“Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time.” Proverbs 13:11 NLT
3. Maintain Relationships
The average youth is proud and wants to be self-made but such mindset or behaviour hardly helps. Rather, position yourself as a person of value around people who can teach you.
Worm your way into their hearts. Learn to be there for them. Treasure and water relationships. Don’t destroy relationships because of short term money gains.
4. Borrow
If you need to, do it (2 Kings 4:1-7). Just know that it will not work magic if there’s nothing worthwhile to invest the money borrowed. But if you have mastered your services, then you can scale up by borrowing. Also, plan to pay back the money. Don’t wait for your creditor to come calling first. (Psalms 37:21)
5. Generosity
Have an eye for generosity. See what the Bible says about it:
“Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor.” Proverbs 22:9 NLT
Therefore, have a percentage for giving every month. Set aside an amount for charity. Learn to give to the gospel. Learn to also relax with money. Not everytime work, sometimes give yourself a treat. As they say, “work no dey finish” meaning “work never ends.”
6. Learn to give to God
Learn to support your church. In an age where it seems counterintuitive to give to one’s church, do the word of God (2 Corinthians 9). Learn to support the work of God with generosity. You will be better for it.
Learn to support your church. In an age where it seems counterintuitive to give to one's church, do the word of God Click To TweetAnd that’s all for now. Would you like to share with us other common sense finance principles? Please comment below.
*This article is inspired by the sermon “The Believer and Money” preached by Pastor Emmanuel Iren.
Did you enjoy it? You can also read “Is God Against Believers Having Lots of Money?”
Disclaimer: These principles are not meant to serve as expert financial advice. They are only meant to serve as practical advice.
Love it! Thank you