Finance

<<money>>

This measurable commodity often has an undue emphasis placed on it, being considered a hallmark of success through having it in abundance and
what it can buy. Jesus refuted this concept stating, “A person’s life does not consist in the abundance of their possessions” (Lk 12:15).

“People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap…For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith…” (1 Tim 6:7-10). Money represents power, but unfortunately, it corrupts and leads many away from living upright lives. “Quick wealth is not a blessing in the end…Do not wear yourself

Greed is frequently a cause of financial problems

out to get rich…for riches fly away like an eagle” (Prov 20:21, Prov 23:4,5). Satan wants to make money a stumbling block, while God expects us to use it wisely for our needs and those for whom we are responsible. Although we can’t buy our way into heaven, we are also to help meet the needs of God’s people and extend His Kingdom besidesfulfilling our civil responsibilities (Mt 15:4-6, 22:21; Rom 13:7; 2 Cor 9:12; 1 Tim 5:8). As we give to meet the needs of others God gives to us, in this life (Prov 11:34,25, 19:17, 22:9, 28:27; Mt 6:33, 19:21; Lk 6:38; Phil 4:17-19). He won’t forget our good deeds that we have done for Him (1 Sam 2:30; Mk 10:29,30; Heb 6:10).

What we do with our money is indicative of our values. The Bible counsels us not to store up riches for personal use; rather, investing in eternity is a wise option as it is impossible to serve God and money (Mt 6:19-24; 1 Tim 6:17-19). The parable of the rich fool highlights the folly of living only for self (Lk 12:16-21). God declared, “You earn wages, but put it into a purse with holes in it” (Hag 1:5-11). The money was not going far enough because they were ignoring God’s priorities of giving back to Him.

Discipleship extends to every area of life including our finances, and while we need money, it is not to be an all-consuming factor in the life of a believer. We can take practical steps to manage our finances well. Try to be free of debt especially in areas that depreciate (cars and most consumer goods, which if sold would yield less than their purchase price). Houses and land normally increase in value yet the interest on the mortgage is often a huge burden, and the Bible says, “The rich rule over the poor, the borrower is servant to the lender” (Prov 22:7). The NT says, “Don’t be a slave to man” (1 Cor 7:23). Ask where can I reduce my outgoings rather than just pushing for an increase in my income? Can I correctly handle credit cards? Be disciplined in your purchases, and resist advertising pressure. Is it essential, do I need it or is it something I want?

The Bible says, “Everything comes from you…even the ability to get wealth” (Deut 8:18; 1 Chr 29:14).

If we find true wealth in God we can be content, looking beyond the present situation to eternity (Ps 103:2; Hab 3:17,18; Heb 11:8-10).

Finance is one of the three main temptation areas that Satan uses to ensnare people (often referred to as money, pride, sex or ‘gold, glory, gals’).

The World Economic Forum (WEF) as part of the New World Order is soon to introduce the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) which will have a profound effect on the world's financial system and pave the way for a one world currency. Ultimately this will require an identifying mark (mark of the beast) implanted in each person to enable transactions to take place.