Key #5 – Act like a manager, not an owner
It’s a privilege for Family Life Radio to partner with other ministries, agencies and businesses across the nation—all of whom share the vision to help others experience hope in the name of Jesus. This month, please meet Brian Cochran and John Moore from John Moore Associates, a respected financial advice company founded on biblical wisdom.
Six keys to your financial wellness
Key #5
Brian Cochran, CKA®, CFP®, Financial Planner
God owns everything. Period. You cannot escape this reality as you read scripture. 1 Corinthians 10:26 makes it very clear for someone like me who may want to find a grey area or opportunity to bend the rules- For the earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains. If God owns everything then every financial decision is a spiritual decision! The bank account under your name, the car in your driveway, that annual bonus check, your home, your pension check…they all belong to God. This reality is so crucial that it deserves a place on the six keys to financial wellness.
- Spend less than you make
- Be prudent about debt
- Build liquidity
- Set long-term goals
- Act like a manager, not an owner
- Give generously
Some believers may feel a sense of burden or guilt as they come to understand God’s ownership of their money. They focus on past mistakes and selfish decisions. I encourage an alternative perspective. As a steward of God’s resources, you are the money manager for a forgiving father with abundant wealth, love, generosity, grace, and a desire for you to grow closer to him in everything you do. Our stewardship role gives us the opportunity to accept what God gives us and use it to mature in our faith. With that in mind, how do we act like a manager?
- First- Seek God’s will with every financial decision you make. We understand his will by reading his word and praying for his guidance. Always ask “What would God have me to do?” James 1:5
- Second- Hold all resources loosely. God may have a different plan for your money than you expect. We must hold everything with an open hand so God can align his resources with his plan. Proverbs 3:5
- Third- Be cautious not to confuse your desires for God’s will. I cannot tell you how many times I have heard a Christian justify an emotional spending, debt, or investment decision as God’s will. Matthew 6:10
- Fourth- Seek wise counsel. Always be willing to bounce financial ideas off a wise brother or sister in Christ who can help you avoid making costly mistakes. Proverbs 15:22
Nobody is a perfect manager, and even the most mature Christians constantly struggle with ownership. Do not be discouraged by mistakes. Learn from your them and consistently ask for God’s forgiveness and wisdom. You are closer to his will when you feel a sense of joy, contentment and peace. Greed, fear, and a scarcity mentality are signs you need to re-align your actions with his word.
John Moore Associates is not affiliated with Family Life Radio
Any opinions are those of the author and not necessarily those of John Moore Associates or Family Life Radio
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