Blog

By Peter Briscoe 26 Feb, 2024
Investing as a financial disciple comes with a unique set of principles and values that go beyond just financial gain. One of the most significant aspects of responsible Christian investing is having a clear mission and purpose. This mission serves as a guiding light, ensuring that investments align with your beliefs and values. First and foremost, having a mission when investing as a Christian helps maintain a spiritual, moral and ethical compass. The Bible places a strong emphasis on living a righteous and virtuous life. Investing with a mission allows individuals to avoid investments in companies or industries that go against their beliefs. For instance, Christians may choose to avoid investing in businesses involved in activities such as gambling, pornography, or weapons production, which they view as incompatible with their faith. This deliberate approach to investment ensures that one's money is not being used to support or profit from activities that contradict Christian values. Furthermore, being on a mission in Christian investing encourages stewardship. Christians believe that they are stewards of God's resources, and this includes their financial assets. Investing with a mission prompts individuals to consider the impact of their investments on society, the environment, and the well-being of others. They are more likely to seek out investments that promote social responsibility and sustainable practices, thus contributing positively to the world. A mission-driven approach to investing also helps Christians to avoid the pitfalls of greed and materialism. The Bible warns against the love of money and the pursuit of wealth for its own sake. By having a clear mission that emphasises responsible and ethical investing, Christians can prioritise values such as generosity, charity, and helping those in need. This allows them to strike a balance between financial success and their spiritual well-being. Moreover, investing with a mission provides a sense of purpose and fulfilment. It allows investors to feel that their financial decisions are contributing to a greater good, which can be deeply satisfying. Knowing that your investments align with your faith and values can bring peace and contentment, even during market volatility or economic uncertainty. Our predicament This shows a predicament we, as financial disciples, are facing. Many of us invest through retirement accounts or funds managed by others, so we don't know where our money is being utilised. This raises a question: If we believe that it all belongs to God, should we trust unknown institutions with God’s money and not know how it's being used? If we care about certain values, we might find out that our investments support companies which go against those values, doing harmful things or mistreating people. Realising this can make us rethink our investment choices based on our Christian principles. On a larger scale, this uninvolved investing can put money where it doesn't align with what society really needs. For example, investing heavily in gaming, weapons, or media companies may not reflect our true desires for a healthy society due to concerns about mental health and relationships. As I am writing this, I realise that I have a sizeable investment in a company whose goals and services I later realised that I shouldn’t be supporting as a Christian. I will get out of this position as soon as I can. Investing with a mission Investing as a financial disciple comes with a unique set of principles and values beyond financial gain. One of the most significant aspects of responsible Christian investing is having a clear mission and purpose. This mission is a guiding light, ensuring investments align with your beliefs and values. The mission of money as a financial disciple will reflect the three great commands we have been given. The first is the “Creation Mandate” to work the earth and use its resources to benefit and promote human flourishing. Invest to enable people to sustain and enjoy their God-given life, while caring for the environment. The second is the “Great Command” to love God and our neighbour. Money should be invested to serve God and those in need. Invest to promote human flourishing, fight poverty, promote employment, while practising principles of love, compassion, stewardship, and an eternal perspective. The third command is to “Great Commission” to make disciples in all nations. Invest to help people find and follow Jesus in every area of their lives, making an eternal impact. **Guest blogger Peter J. Briscoe who has written the book “Investing - to Live, Love and Last” by Peter J. Briscoe, explains how we can practically fulfil these aspects of God’s mission for our money. The book gives a Biblical perspective on financial planning and the different investment vehicles. Available on Amazon. Watch a short clip.
By Dr. Rev. Alistair Petrie 19 Jan, 2024
Two challenging questions affect us all: - 1). Who am I? 2). What am I called to do? The answer to the first question defines how we respond to the second. As a proponent of authentic transformational revival, I have found one precious key that the revival saints of old learned in their relationship with the Lord. It may sound simple, but it is not simplistic and utterly changes our relationship and understanding of, and in the Lord. They first and foremost knew the Lord of the work – which then determined their work for the Lord. If we define who we are through our work for the Lord, it can subtly become a work-based ministry and we become yoked to what we do rather than to Jesus who is Lord of all work and ministry. This can minimize our intimacy and fellowship with the Lord and our understanding of His ways. In turn it lessens our dependence upon the Lord who has the right to interrupt us at any moment and remind us that He is the Lord of the impossible (Luke 1:37). He reserves the right to change seasons – calls – and the nature of our life and work. Therefore, when our identity is found in the Lord of the work, it then dramatically shifts how we perceive and respond to the Lord and the work to which He calls us. It means that the work no longer becomes our focus and no longer defines who we are in Christ. The Lord Himself needs to be our focus, especially with the many distractions and issues and challenges of the day that are clearly on the increase. When our identity is truly found in him, then we have both a freedom and an authority as well as a joy in the work we do for Him, knowing He can change that work at any moment, and that He underwrites what we do, but on His terms. Seasons change and so does our work for the Lord. As Scripture puts it so clearly, Jesus in us is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27) - Our life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3) - It is in Him that we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28). This was the key in several historic revivals – the people of God knowing who they were in the Lord and never allowing the work they did for Him to become the reference point. In fact, it became a key point of repentance in several of the Hebridean revivals when work and religion had almost become idolatrous – and then upon repentance, they once again experienced the beautiful intimacy and fellowship of the Lord – resulting in extraordinary moves of God within their lives and upon their Islands. They were no longer limiting God to their definition of what God was like based on the work they did for Him. The danger for those of us in the Western Church is that we often see increased productivity as achievement and success, but in the end, it can become a subtle form of idolatry, resulting in a heaviness and burden in what we do for Him. Hudson Taylor once quoted an unknown author who put it this way - Bear not a single care yourself, one is too much for you; The work is Mine – and Mine alone: your work – to rest in Me. In other words, identity in the Lord first which then determines our work for the Lord. Jesus modelled this Himself in His relationship and identity with the Father. As He sought the Father in relationship, He then went about His Father’s business. I encourage us all to make this our prayer focus throughout 2024. ** Guest blogger - Rev. Dr. Alistair Petrie, Executive Director of Partnership Ministries, a global ministry that teaches principles and relevance of the Gospel and its relationship to society. Learn more about Dr. Petrie's work and resources at www.partnershipministries.org
By Ray Borg 08 Dec, 2023
“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgement and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” ~ Isaiah 9:6-7 These familiar words spoken by the prophet Isaiah foretold the world that God’s plan for salvation would be made manifest through the arrival of His Son, Jesus. This Child who would in humility and obedience, leave the presence of His Father to visit mankind. The divine intersecting with the natural. A glimpse of eternity embedded in the heart of the Father and Son for mankind. These words echo through time and into eternity and bring great comfort when we understand the depth of their meaning. Jesus the One who would reign in eternity, displaying His leadership and guidance, conquering sin and death, displaying the divine attributes of eternity and omnipresence as He rules from His throne and in our hearts, and the One whose reign is characterized by shalom, health, well-being, and happiness and an end of enmity. The word ‘eternity’ means ‘infinite or unending time’ or in Greek “perpetuity’. It is not a word I have reflected upon in depth. Yet, the Scriptures make mention of ‘eternal’ some 47 times highlighting its significance. Furthermore, Ecclesiastes 3:11 says that God has put eternity in our hearts, as was in the Father and Son’s hearts. A captivating thought. I am reminded in this Advent season of Jesus’s gift to mankind – to you and me. A gift all-consuming and reflective of His love for us, knowing that by doing so He was making a way that we might be with Him in eternity. In His giving Jesus modelled something profound for each of us. I am challenged to consider my own giving this season. Is the giving of my time and money impacting other’s lives for eternity as Jesus’ impacted mine? How will my giving to ministries and charities in this season reflect eternal consequences? “At death we put the signature to our life’s portrait.” – Randy Alcorn. Is the portrait you are painting reflective of eternity in this season of your life?
By Ray Borg 07 Nov, 2023
“ That same night the Lord said to him, ‘Take the second bull from your father’s herd, the one seven years old. Tear down your father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. Then build a proper kind of altar to the Lord your God on the top of this height.” ~ Judges 6:25-26  A ‘high place’ is a term often used to reference places of worship, in particular, altars to idols which Scripture describes as an offense to the Lord. Their prominence on high hills or mountain tops created visibility and intentionally declared that the god being worshipped had rule and reign over the region. Over the years in travels to various nations, I have seen many ‘high places’ where altars have been erected and continue to be present to this day, even in our own nation - although I suspect many of us might never identify or associate them with being an altar. Without intentionally looking for them and having them pointed out, we usually miss them. Not as easily seen, but present nonetheless, are the altars we have built in our own hearts - areas of idolatry. These unseen altars have ‘influence’ and prominence in our lives when we give them right of ownership to our actions and behaviour. These ‘high places’ can unconsciously take root in our lives manifesting in different and diverse ways. Our spending habits can be one manifestation of these altars in our lives. When left unchecked, they can shape and direct our spending practices, thus placing us under an incredible yoke and burden of debt. Bondage to debt can make us servants to the very source of our provision whether to banks, credit cards, money marts and other lending institutions. Addictions are another ‘high place’. Addictions can take various forms such as food, spending, alcohol, drugs, gambling, gaming and porn to name a few. The need to provide self-comfort in times of stress can exacerbate financial stress and debt establishing another ‘high place’ in our lives. Both addictions and uncontrolled consumerism become gods we worship when we give them reign and rules over our lives. These two forms of idolatry usually go hand in hand and if not kept in check can easily become a stronghold in our lives. Another form of idolatry may be the place social media, Netflix, Amazon, Prime, Spotify, etc., have in our lives and activities. Without realizing it, they often unknowingly shape our worldview and capture our heart’s affections. All of these ‘high places’ or forms of idolatry become controlling and demanding of our attention, robbing us of spiritual vitality and taking our focus off the Lord. The ‘pinnacle’ of self becomes central to our idolatry and the exclusion of the Lord. Charles Spurgeon presents this remedy - “I have now concentrated all my prayers into one, and that one prayer is this, that I may die to self, and live wholly to Him.” This focus begins to remove every high place and form of idolatry and centres us on making Him first and foremost in every aspect of our lives. Are there ‘high places’, altars and different forms of idolatry in your heart that you need to destroy? Our Father eagerly awaits our turning and surrender to Him.
By Ray Borg 15 Sep, 2023
Proverbs 21:2, NLT “People may be right in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their heart.” We discover in Psalm 139:2 that the Lord “…knows our thoughts from afar”. The Lord knows our thoughts, perhaps even before we take time to register and acknowledge them. That can be both frightening and comforting. Daily, from the time we awake to the time we finally drift off to sleep we run an internal dialogue on a multitude of subjects. We conduct varying levels of analysis, construct rationales and justify our conclusions, perspectives and ultimately, our actions. Money is part of this dialogue, shaping how we process our decisions about spending and saving. If you were to record each internal conversation about money what would they reveal? Perhaps that conversation is defined by what is described as ‘limiting beliefs’. · I don’t deserve a lot of money. · God will never bless me. · It is too hard to keep track of my money. · You have to be frugal and hold your money close to you. · I can’t change my financial future. · I am never going to get out of debt. · I can’t save money. Then there are the narratives or the ‘lies’ the world wants us to believe. · Your money is yours to do with as you please. Use it to make yourself happy. · Keep trying to get rich. Use whatever tricks or means you can use. You never know when you will hit the jackpot. · Start giving when you have extra – God does not expect you to give when you have nothing to give. · Prospering only happens for those who work day and night to get ahead. Many years ago in my own financial journey, I would play a game – using one credit card to pay off another or moving money from account to account when it was already accounted for. Somewhere along the way, I must have decided this was an okay approach to dealing with my debt. What a deception I had bought into. Thought processes can become defining and trapping, intensely guarded ground and not open to scrutiny by self and others. This pattern becomes problematic and affects our actions and ultimately our relationship with the Lord because these thought patterns are not based on truth but on deception. We are in bondage without realizing it and He desires us to be free. Breaking this kind of cyclical and faulty thinking can only happen if we get honest with ourselves and come to terms with the fact that we are in trouble. When we confess and repent we can begin to take responsibility for our justifications and actions, and ask the Lord for His help. It is only then that we can experience freedom and the ability to live free with God’s help. Perhaps some of you reading this may feel convicted to examine your hearts in this area and come to our Heavenly Father who is more than willing to help. He is waiting.
By Ray Borg 11 Jul, 2023
“May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” ~ Psalm 20:4 I joined the Canadian National Christian Foundation eight years ago and recently found myself reflecting on how life has changed since then. My wife and I have always trusted the Lord to guide and direct our steps in all areas of our lives. We know the importance of seeking Him, to wait on His direction and hear what He might be saying to us. At some point during this last season, I realized that this really was not true in the area of our finances. For the most part we did seek the Lord for things like major purchases, tithing and giving, but not specifically as it related to saving, investing and the management of our mortgage. A study of God’s Word and principles brought much light and truth into this area of our lives. Just as we use maps and devices to navigate to a destination, we needed God’s Word and some financial goals to help guide our financial discipleship journey. The establishment of goals in each of these areas produced much fruit in our understanding of what good stewardship looks like in very practical ways. A friend taught us how even our mortgage should be treated as a stewardship goal. He shed some light on the meaning of the word ‘mortgage’. The term comes from Old French and Latin that literally means ‘death pledge’ and refers to the pledge ending (dying) when either the obligation is fulfilled or the property is taken through foreclosure. Sounds a little morbid does it not? Hearing this teaching, my wife and I set a goal to begin paying down our mortgage as soon as possible We sought the Lord’s guidance and set ourselves a goal. I had never considered that this was a possibility and we are not there yet, but we are certainly further down the road than before and are happy to see the numbers going down. As Jesus followers, we want to be found faithful in every area of life along our discipleship journey and so we have set goals in every area of our finances - savings, investing, and tithing and giving included. This process, although not easy, has brought us relief and our finances no longer control us. We plan as our Lord directs and in turn we feel a wonderful spiritual contentment in this area. Do you have financial goals that form part of your discipleship journey?
By Ray Borg 12 May, 2023
“One thing I do. Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 3:13-14 A couple weeks ago I was teaching at a seminar on marriage and money, exploring the issues related to money that disrupt intimacy with our spouses and our relationship with the Lord. At one point, I addressed the issue of legacy. Many leaders in the Bible started out well but lost their way and did not finish well. Solomon is a prime example of having gained abundant wealth but losing his testimony and soul in the process. I have found myself pondering the concept of a ‘legacy’ and wondering what it mean. The dictionary describes ‘legacy’ with two ideas – “an amount of money or property left to someone in a will ” a nd “the long-lasting impact of particular events, actions, etc. that took place in the past, or of a person’s life.” Fascinated by these descriptions, I pondered what this might mean to me. I know there is much one can read about leaving a financial legacy for our spouses and children. I know that means planning now for future days. The more I thought about it, I recognized that I want to leave more than just a financial legacy but also a legacy of impacting my children and others by how I walk out and model my faith journey. My prayer is that it is done with genuineness, transparency and sincerity and I leave behind a testimony that is unblemished. I do believe these two areas are intimately intertwined. How I manage my finances impacts my children and others but also hopefully reflects my faith journey and my desire to be a good steward of all that God has entrusted to me. Decisions we make today help determine what type of legacy we will leave at the end of life. Our children and others watch how we walk out our lives. Even from an early age, we influence their perspective of giving and sowing into the Kingdom. Does my testimony, that being my words and actions – do they exemplify what I believe and value both spiritually and financially? Are they connected and congruent with one another – not being at the expense of the other? This integrity of mind, thought and deed really matters to me. I want to run the race with purpose, not aimlessly, going in circles, going nowhere. I want to be single-minded and maintain my focus and priorities. I want to leave a lasting legacy both spiritually and financially. Have you asked yourself what legacy you wish to leave?
By Ray Borg 03 Mar, 2023
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.” ~ John 15:5-6 Having been in Israel on many occasions, I am always amazed at how the Israelis have caused the desert to bloom. They have brought the Negev desert to life – mile after mile filled with farms of various sorts producing fruit and edible delights such as olives. They have pioneered technology to develop thriving plant life and water technology that causes the desert to flourish and the economy to prosper. The key to sustenance is ensuring there is a flow of life from a continuous source. Jesus referred to Himself as the ‘vine’ and described His disciples and followers as being branches. In John 15: 5 Jesus extends an invitation to all to abide in Him to draw strength, nourishment and so much more that He only could offer. I recall my first encounter with the vineyards of California, seeing row upon row filled with grapes being prepared for market, dried for raisins or harvested for the production of wine. However, once the crop had been harvested, the vinedressers would ruthlessly prune back the branches. The bare essence of the former vine was left to rest over the winter season only to see it spring to life with the onset of warmer temperatures. With amazement, I watched in a short few weeks the new branches take shape and flourish. This discovery was such a wonderful depiction of Jesus’s invitation to each of us and His work in our lives. The process of abiding in Him allows us to draw strength and sustenance resulting in the production of fruit in our lives. This productivity also applies to the stewarding of our finances. When we abide in Him, He releases His life flow through us causing us to discover who He is and His heart towards us. Knowledge and wisdom are an outflow of abiding in Him. His Spirit then leads and guides us, revealing the heart and good will of the Father. Our abiding in Him gives us understanding and wisdom as to how we manage our finances. Not only for guidance on budgets and spending decisions to seeing provision, but to also produce wealth, seeing it multiplied and maximized for Kingdom purposes - all with the intent of bringing Him glory, seeing the advancement of the Kingdom and laying up treasures in heaven for eternity. Abiding in Him has never had more significance then in turbulent and uncertain times. Drawing strength and rest, wisdom and knowledge and discerning of the way forward in our finances and in all areas of our lives, is critical to navigating the days ahead and to finishing well on this side of heaven. Jesus invites each of us into a deeper place of abiding by asking Him to lead us on our financial discipleship journey. 
By Ray Borg 30 Jan, 2023
“Because of the LORD’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore, I will wait for him.”” Lamentations 3:22-24  For many, the start of a new year brings a sense of new beginnings; a time to make new goals, establish new habits or the old adage make ‘new year’s resolutions. Of late, I have found myself pondering our financial situation. I have sensed that this is a season where I need to be more diligent and intentional in tracking how monies are managed. Are the goals that my wife and I set for ourselves still doable as they relate to expenses, paying down the mortgage and giving? Recently, a friend who offers financial coaching said that more people than ever are reaching out for help. Many are feeling the pinch of increased interest rates in their mortgages and loans, higher gas prices at the pumps and higher totals on grocery receipts. This reality combined with smaller wage increases, if any, is impacting people and families in significant ways. For some of you reading this blog, you will remember the old saying – ‘tighten your belt’ or ‘sharpen your pencil’. Some of you will remember other seasons where this was necessary. I believe we are yet again in a season where we need to take seriously the importance of intentionality in how we manage our money or be prepared for the consequences. A good place to start is by establishing a realistic budget. Make every dollar you earn have a purpose is critical so that it does not slip through your fingers leaving you short at the end of the month. Even those of us who have a budget in place need to re-visit the numbers to determine whether there needs to be some tweaking to reflect this new current reality. We need to ask ourselves if our financial goals are still within reach; if not we will need to adjust. Due diligence is important not only at the beginning of the year, but as frequently as needed. We need to remain focused so that we do not drift and catch ourselves overloaded or in deeper debt. And let’s remember that praying over our finances and discussions with spouses is vital. Asking the Lord to help us remain focused and intentional in this area of our life is an important part of our discipleship journey. Remember that the Lord is our Portion, our Provider and the One who can move in supernatural ways to meet our every need. By inviting Him into our financial picture through prayer, we make a way for Him to speak, teach and direct our ways in the management of our finances. Is this a time of new beginnings for you; this year do you need a refresh in your financial discipleship journey?
By Ray Borg 16 Dec, 2022
In this season of Advent, I find myself reflecting upon the arrival of the Incarnation. The meaning of Advent has to do with ‘coming’ and implied in this process is the concept of waiting. The Christmas narrative encapsulates the process of waiting for the arrival for the Prince of Peace. Upon closer reflection, many of the Christmas story characters portrayed a sense of anticipation in their time of waiting. The first two chapters of Luke are filled with examples of individuals who believed the word of the Lord and held on tightly to promises divinely inspired. They were waiting for the arrival of the One who had been spoken of by the prophet Isaiah hundreds of years earlier in Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” In Isaiah 9:6-7 it was prophesied that the Saviour of the world would usher in a new kingdom. Malachi concludes by the promise of one yet to come in the spirit of Elijah. From this point on, over 400 years, nothing more was heard until Jesus arrived on the scene. That was a long period of waiting. But suddenly… Luke 1 tells us the story of Zacharias’s encounter with an angel while fulfilling his priestly duties. He is dumbstruck and left mute for a season. His wife Elizabeth becomes pregnant and bears a son. They both experience a season of waiting for the fulfilment of a promise – a forerunner preparing the way of the Lord. Mary is visited by an angel and told “And behold, you will conceive in our womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His Name Jesus.” (Luke 1:31) She is overshadowed by the Spirit of the Lord and conceives a child. She had a time of waiting for the birth of the one called Jesus. Simeon is promised he would not pass away until he saw the Consolation of Israel. As Jesus is presented on the eighth day Simeon is found in the temple. He lays his eyes on the One who would bring salvation to the Gentiles and to His people Israel. Simeon waited a long time. Then there is an 84-year-old prophetess named Anna who had been waiting daily in the temple serving the Lord with fastings and prayers day and night. In patience she beholds the fulfillment of her season of waiting. She speaks to others of the one to bring redemption in Jerusalem. At last the waiting comes to an end. He is Immanuel – God with us. He never changes. His love never fails reaching out to every individual, every city, and every nation. With compassion He embraces those who reach out to Him. He heals and restores our brokenness. He is the Prince of Peace bringing His peace to fill our hearts in the most trying of times. And He will come again! Are you waiting for Him this Advent season?
Show More
By Peter Briscoe 26 Feb, 2024
Investing as a financial disciple comes with a unique set of principles and values that go beyond just financial gain. One of the most significant aspects of responsible Christian investing is having a clear mission and purpose. This mission serves as a guiding light, ensuring that investments align with your beliefs and values. First and foremost, having a mission when investing as a Christian helps maintain a spiritual, moral and ethical compass. The Bible places a strong emphasis on living a righteous and virtuous life. Investing with a mission allows individuals to avoid investments in companies or industries that go against their beliefs. For instance, Christians may choose to avoid investing in businesses involved in activities such as gambling, pornography, or weapons production, which they view as incompatible with their faith. This deliberate approach to investment ensures that one's money is not being used to support or profit from activities that contradict Christian values. Furthermore, being on a mission in Christian investing encourages stewardship. Christians believe that they are stewards of God's resources, and this includes their financial assets. Investing with a mission prompts individuals to consider the impact of their investments on society, the environment, and the well-being of others. They are more likely to seek out investments that promote social responsibility and sustainable practices, thus contributing positively to the world. A mission-driven approach to investing also helps Christians to avoid the pitfalls of greed and materialism. The Bible warns against the love of money and the pursuit of wealth for its own sake. By having a clear mission that emphasises responsible and ethical investing, Christians can prioritise values such as generosity, charity, and helping those in need. This allows them to strike a balance between financial success and their spiritual well-being. Moreover, investing with a mission provides a sense of purpose and fulfilment. It allows investors to feel that their financial decisions are contributing to a greater good, which can be deeply satisfying. Knowing that your investments align with your faith and values can bring peace and contentment, even during market volatility or economic uncertainty. Our predicament This shows a predicament we, as financial disciples, are facing. Many of us invest through retirement accounts or funds managed by others, so we don't know where our money is being utilised. This raises a question: If we believe that it all belongs to God, should we trust unknown institutions with God’s money and not know how it's being used? If we care about certain values, we might find out that our investments support companies which go against those values, doing harmful things or mistreating people. Realising this can make us rethink our investment choices based on our Christian principles. On a larger scale, this uninvolved investing can put money where it doesn't align with what society really needs. For example, investing heavily in gaming, weapons, or media companies may not reflect our true desires for a healthy society due to concerns about mental health and relationships. As I am writing this, I realise that I have a sizeable investment in a company whose goals and services I later realised that I shouldn’t be supporting as a Christian. I will get out of this position as soon as I can. Investing with a mission Investing as a financial disciple comes with a unique set of principles and values beyond financial gain. One of the most significant aspects of responsible Christian investing is having a clear mission and purpose. This mission is a guiding light, ensuring investments align with your beliefs and values. The mission of money as a financial disciple will reflect the three great commands we have been given. The first is the “Creation Mandate” to work the earth and use its resources to benefit and promote human flourishing. Invest to enable people to sustain and enjoy their God-given life, while caring for the environment. The second is the “Great Command” to love God and our neighbour. Money should be invested to serve God and those in need. Invest to promote human flourishing, fight poverty, promote employment, while practising principles of love, compassion, stewardship, and an eternal perspective. The third command is to “Great Commission” to make disciples in all nations. Invest to help people find and follow Jesus in every area of their lives, making an eternal impact. **Guest blogger Peter J. Briscoe who has written the book “Investing - to Live, Love and Last” by Peter J. Briscoe, explains how we can practically fulfil these aspects of God’s mission for our money. The book gives a Biblical perspective on financial planning and the different investment vehicles. Available on Amazon. Watch a short clip.
By Dr. Rev. Alistair Petrie 19 Jan, 2024
Two challenging questions affect us all: - 1). Who am I? 2). What am I called to do? The answer to the first question defines how we respond to the second. As a proponent of authentic transformational revival, I have found one precious key that the revival saints of old learned in their relationship with the Lord. It may sound simple, but it is not simplistic and utterly changes our relationship and understanding of, and in the Lord. They first and foremost knew the Lord of the work – which then determined their work for the Lord. If we define who we are through our work for the Lord, it can subtly become a work-based ministry and we become yoked to what we do rather than to Jesus who is Lord of all work and ministry. This can minimize our intimacy and fellowship with the Lord and our understanding of His ways. In turn it lessens our dependence upon the Lord who has the right to interrupt us at any moment and remind us that He is the Lord of the impossible (Luke 1:37). He reserves the right to change seasons – calls – and the nature of our life and work. Therefore, when our identity is found in the Lord of the work, it then dramatically shifts how we perceive and respond to the Lord and the work to which He calls us. It means that the work no longer becomes our focus and no longer defines who we are in Christ. The Lord Himself needs to be our focus, especially with the many distractions and issues and challenges of the day that are clearly on the increase. When our identity is truly found in him, then we have both a freedom and an authority as well as a joy in the work we do for Him, knowing He can change that work at any moment, and that He underwrites what we do, but on His terms. Seasons change and so does our work for the Lord. As Scripture puts it so clearly, Jesus in us is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27) - Our life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3) - It is in Him that we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28). This was the key in several historic revivals – the people of God knowing who they were in the Lord and never allowing the work they did for Him to become the reference point. In fact, it became a key point of repentance in several of the Hebridean revivals when work and religion had almost become idolatrous – and then upon repentance, they once again experienced the beautiful intimacy and fellowship of the Lord – resulting in extraordinary moves of God within their lives and upon their Islands. They were no longer limiting God to their definition of what God was like based on the work they did for Him. The danger for those of us in the Western Church is that we often see increased productivity as achievement and success, but in the end, it can become a subtle form of idolatry, resulting in a heaviness and burden in what we do for Him. Hudson Taylor once quoted an unknown author who put it this way - Bear not a single care yourself, one is too much for you; The work is Mine – and Mine alone: your work – to rest in Me. In other words, identity in the Lord first which then determines our work for the Lord. Jesus modelled this Himself in His relationship and identity with the Father. As He sought the Father in relationship, He then went about His Father’s business. I encourage us all to make this our prayer focus throughout 2024. ** Guest blogger - Rev. Dr. Alistair Petrie, Executive Director of Partnership Ministries, a global ministry that teaches principles and relevance of the Gospel and its relationship to society. Learn more about Dr. Petrie's work and resources at www.partnershipministries.org
By Ray Borg 08 Dec, 2023
“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgement and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” ~ Isaiah 9:6-7 These familiar words spoken by the prophet Isaiah foretold the world that God’s plan for salvation would be made manifest through the arrival of His Son, Jesus. This Child who would in humility and obedience, leave the presence of His Father to visit mankind. The divine intersecting with the natural. A glimpse of eternity embedded in the heart of the Father and Son for mankind. These words echo through time and into eternity and bring great comfort when we understand the depth of their meaning. Jesus the One who would reign in eternity, displaying His leadership and guidance, conquering sin and death, displaying the divine attributes of eternity and omnipresence as He rules from His throne and in our hearts, and the One whose reign is characterized by shalom, health, well-being, and happiness and an end of enmity. The word ‘eternity’ means ‘infinite or unending time’ or in Greek “perpetuity’. It is not a word I have reflected upon in depth. Yet, the Scriptures make mention of ‘eternal’ some 47 times highlighting its significance. Furthermore, Ecclesiastes 3:11 says that God has put eternity in our hearts, as was in the Father and Son’s hearts. A captivating thought. I am reminded in this Advent season of Jesus’s gift to mankind – to you and me. A gift all-consuming and reflective of His love for us, knowing that by doing so He was making a way that we might be with Him in eternity. In His giving Jesus modelled something profound for each of us. I am challenged to consider my own giving this season. Is the giving of my time and money impacting other’s lives for eternity as Jesus’ impacted mine? How will my giving to ministries and charities in this season reflect eternal consequences? “At death we put the signature to our life’s portrait.” – Randy Alcorn. Is the portrait you are painting reflective of eternity in this season of your life?
By Ray Borg 07 Nov, 2023
“ That same night the Lord said to him, ‘Take the second bull from your father’s herd, the one seven years old. Tear down your father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. Then build a proper kind of altar to the Lord your God on the top of this height.” ~ Judges 6:25-26  A ‘high place’ is a term often used to reference places of worship, in particular, altars to idols which Scripture describes as an offense to the Lord. Their prominence on high hills or mountain tops created visibility and intentionally declared that the god being worshipped had rule and reign over the region. Over the years in travels to various nations, I have seen many ‘high places’ where altars have been erected and continue to be present to this day, even in our own nation - although I suspect many of us might never identify or associate them with being an altar. Without intentionally looking for them and having them pointed out, we usually miss them. Not as easily seen, but present nonetheless, are the altars we have built in our own hearts - areas of idolatry. These unseen altars have ‘influence’ and prominence in our lives when we give them right of ownership to our actions and behaviour. These ‘high places’ can unconsciously take root in our lives manifesting in different and diverse ways. Our spending habits can be one manifestation of these altars in our lives. When left unchecked, they can shape and direct our spending practices, thus placing us under an incredible yoke and burden of debt. Bondage to debt can make us servants to the very source of our provision whether to banks, credit cards, money marts and other lending institutions. Addictions are another ‘high place’. Addictions can take various forms such as food, spending, alcohol, drugs, gambling, gaming and porn to name a few. The need to provide self-comfort in times of stress can exacerbate financial stress and debt establishing another ‘high place’ in our lives. Both addictions and uncontrolled consumerism become gods we worship when we give them reign and rules over our lives. These two forms of idolatry usually go hand in hand and if not kept in check can easily become a stronghold in our lives. Another form of idolatry may be the place social media, Netflix, Amazon, Prime, Spotify, etc., have in our lives and activities. Without realizing it, they often unknowingly shape our worldview and capture our heart’s affections. All of these ‘high places’ or forms of idolatry become controlling and demanding of our attention, robbing us of spiritual vitality and taking our focus off the Lord. The ‘pinnacle’ of self becomes central to our idolatry and the exclusion of the Lord. Charles Spurgeon presents this remedy - “I have now concentrated all my prayers into one, and that one prayer is this, that I may die to self, and live wholly to Him.” This focus begins to remove every high place and form of idolatry and centres us on making Him first and foremost in every aspect of our lives. Are there ‘high places’, altars and different forms of idolatry in your heart that you need to destroy? Our Father eagerly awaits our turning and surrender to Him.
By Ray Borg 15 Sep, 2023
Proverbs 21:2, NLT “People may be right in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their heart.” We discover in Psalm 139:2 that the Lord “…knows our thoughts from afar”. The Lord knows our thoughts, perhaps even before we take time to register and acknowledge them. That can be both frightening and comforting. Daily, from the time we awake to the time we finally drift off to sleep we run an internal dialogue on a multitude of subjects. We conduct varying levels of analysis, construct rationales and justify our conclusions, perspectives and ultimately, our actions. Money is part of this dialogue, shaping how we process our decisions about spending and saving. If you were to record each internal conversation about money what would they reveal? Perhaps that conversation is defined by what is described as ‘limiting beliefs’. · I don’t deserve a lot of money. · God will never bless me. · It is too hard to keep track of my money. · You have to be frugal and hold your money close to you. · I can’t change my financial future. · I am never going to get out of debt. · I can’t save money. Then there are the narratives or the ‘lies’ the world wants us to believe. · Your money is yours to do with as you please. Use it to make yourself happy. · Keep trying to get rich. Use whatever tricks or means you can use. You never know when you will hit the jackpot. · Start giving when you have extra – God does not expect you to give when you have nothing to give. · Prospering only happens for those who work day and night to get ahead. Many years ago in my own financial journey, I would play a game – using one credit card to pay off another or moving money from account to account when it was already accounted for. Somewhere along the way, I must have decided this was an okay approach to dealing with my debt. What a deception I had bought into. Thought processes can become defining and trapping, intensely guarded ground and not open to scrutiny by self and others. This pattern becomes problematic and affects our actions and ultimately our relationship with the Lord because these thought patterns are not based on truth but on deception. We are in bondage without realizing it and He desires us to be free. Breaking this kind of cyclical and faulty thinking can only happen if we get honest with ourselves and come to terms with the fact that we are in trouble. When we confess and repent we can begin to take responsibility for our justifications and actions, and ask the Lord for His help. It is only then that we can experience freedom and the ability to live free with God’s help. Perhaps some of you reading this may feel convicted to examine your hearts in this area and come to our Heavenly Father who is more than willing to help. He is waiting.
By Ray Borg 11 Jul, 2023
“May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” ~ Psalm 20:4 I joined the Canadian National Christian Foundation eight years ago and recently found myself reflecting on how life has changed since then. My wife and I have always trusted the Lord to guide and direct our steps in all areas of our lives. We know the importance of seeking Him, to wait on His direction and hear what He might be saying to us. At some point during this last season, I realized that this really was not true in the area of our finances. For the most part we did seek the Lord for things like major purchases, tithing and giving, but not specifically as it related to saving, investing and the management of our mortgage. A study of God’s Word and principles brought much light and truth into this area of our lives. Just as we use maps and devices to navigate to a destination, we needed God’s Word and some financial goals to help guide our financial discipleship journey. The establishment of goals in each of these areas produced much fruit in our understanding of what good stewardship looks like in very practical ways. A friend taught us how even our mortgage should be treated as a stewardship goal. He shed some light on the meaning of the word ‘mortgage’. The term comes from Old French and Latin that literally means ‘death pledge’ and refers to the pledge ending (dying) when either the obligation is fulfilled or the property is taken through foreclosure. Sounds a little morbid does it not? Hearing this teaching, my wife and I set a goal to begin paying down our mortgage as soon as possible We sought the Lord’s guidance and set ourselves a goal. I had never considered that this was a possibility and we are not there yet, but we are certainly further down the road than before and are happy to see the numbers going down. As Jesus followers, we want to be found faithful in every area of life along our discipleship journey and so we have set goals in every area of our finances - savings, investing, and tithing and giving included. This process, although not easy, has brought us relief and our finances no longer control us. We plan as our Lord directs and in turn we feel a wonderful spiritual contentment in this area. Do you have financial goals that form part of your discipleship journey?
By Ray Borg 12 May, 2023
“One thing I do. Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 3:13-14 A couple weeks ago I was teaching at a seminar on marriage and money, exploring the issues related to money that disrupt intimacy with our spouses and our relationship with the Lord. At one point, I addressed the issue of legacy. Many leaders in the Bible started out well but lost their way and did not finish well. Solomon is a prime example of having gained abundant wealth but losing his testimony and soul in the process. I have found myself pondering the concept of a ‘legacy’ and wondering what it mean. The dictionary describes ‘legacy’ with two ideas – “an amount of money or property left to someone in a will ” a nd “the long-lasting impact of particular events, actions, etc. that took place in the past, or of a person’s life.” Fascinated by these descriptions, I pondered what this might mean to me. I know there is much one can read about leaving a financial legacy for our spouses and children. I know that means planning now for future days. The more I thought about it, I recognized that I want to leave more than just a financial legacy but also a legacy of impacting my children and others by how I walk out and model my faith journey. My prayer is that it is done with genuineness, transparency and sincerity and I leave behind a testimony that is unblemished. I do believe these two areas are intimately intertwined. How I manage my finances impacts my children and others but also hopefully reflects my faith journey and my desire to be a good steward of all that God has entrusted to me. Decisions we make today help determine what type of legacy we will leave at the end of life. Our children and others watch how we walk out our lives. Even from an early age, we influence their perspective of giving and sowing into the Kingdom. Does my testimony, that being my words and actions – do they exemplify what I believe and value both spiritually and financially? Are they connected and congruent with one another – not being at the expense of the other? This integrity of mind, thought and deed really matters to me. I want to run the race with purpose, not aimlessly, going in circles, going nowhere. I want to be single-minded and maintain my focus and priorities. I want to leave a lasting legacy both spiritually and financially. Have you asked yourself what legacy you wish to leave?
By Ray Borg 03 Mar, 2023
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.” ~ John 15:5-6 Having been in Israel on many occasions, I am always amazed at how the Israelis have caused the desert to bloom. They have brought the Negev desert to life – mile after mile filled with farms of various sorts producing fruit and edible delights such as olives. They have pioneered technology to develop thriving plant life and water technology that causes the desert to flourish and the economy to prosper. The key to sustenance is ensuring there is a flow of life from a continuous source. Jesus referred to Himself as the ‘vine’ and described His disciples and followers as being branches. In John 15: 5 Jesus extends an invitation to all to abide in Him to draw strength, nourishment and so much more that He only could offer. I recall my first encounter with the vineyards of California, seeing row upon row filled with grapes being prepared for market, dried for raisins or harvested for the production of wine. However, once the crop had been harvested, the vinedressers would ruthlessly prune back the branches. The bare essence of the former vine was left to rest over the winter season only to see it spring to life with the onset of warmer temperatures. With amazement, I watched in a short few weeks the new branches take shape and flourish. This discovery was such a wonderful depiction of Jesus’s invitation to each of us and His work in our lives. The process of abiding in Him allows us to draw strength and sustenance resulting in the production of fruit in our lives. This productivity also applies to the stewarding of our finances. When we abide in Him, He releases His life flow through us causing us to discover who He is and His heart towards us. Knowledge and wisdom are an outflow of abiding in Him. His Spirit then leads and guides us, revealing the heart and good will of the Father. Our abiding in Him gives us understanding and wisdom as to how we manage our finances. Not only for guidance on budgets and spending decisions to seeing provision, but to also produce wealth, seeing it multiplied and maximized for Kingdom purposes - all with the intent of bringing Him glory, seeing the advancement of the Kingdom and laying up treasures in heaven for eternity. Abiding in Him has never had more significance then in turbulent and uncertain times. Drawing strength and rest, wisdom and knowledge and discerning of the way forward in our finances and in all areas of our lives, is critical to navigating the days ahead and to finishing well on this side of heaven. Jesus invites each of us into a deeper place of abiding by asking Him to lead us on our financial discipleship journey. 
By Ray Borg 30 Jan, 2023
“Because of the LORD’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore, I will wait for him.”” Lamentations 3:22-24  For many, the start of a new year brings a sense of new beginnings; a time to make new goals, establish new habits or the old adage make ‘new year’s resolutions. Of late, I have found myself pondering our financial situation. I have sensed that this is a season where I need to be more diligent and intentional in tracking how monies are managed. Are the goals that my wife and I set for ourselves still doable as they relate to expenses, paying down the mortgage and giving? Recently, a friend who offers financial coaching said that more people than ever are reaching out for help. Many are feeling the pinch of increased interest rates in their mortgages and loans, higher gas prices at the pumps and higher totals on grocery receipts. This reality combined with smaller wage increases, if any, is impacting people and families in significant ways. For some of you reading this blog, you will remember the old saying – ‘tighten your belt’ or ‘sharpen your pencil’. Some of you will remember other seasons where this was necessary. I believe we are yet again in a season where we need to take seriously the importance of intentionality in how we manage our money or be prepared for the consequences. A good place to start is by establishing a realistic budget. Make every dollar you earn have a purpose is critical so that it does not slip through your fingers leaving you short at the end of the month. Even those of us who have a budget in place need to re-visit the numbers to determine whether there needs to be some tweaking to reflect this new current reality. We need to ask ourselves if our financial goals are still within reach; if not we will need to adjust. Due diligence is important not only at the beginning of the year, but as frequently as needed. We need to remain focused so that we do not drift and catch ourselves overloaded or in deeper debt. And let’s remember that praying over our finances and discussions with spouses is vital. Asking the Lord to help us remain focused and intentional in this area of our life is an important part of our discipleship journey. Remember that the Lord is our Portion, our Provider and the One who can move in supernatural ways to meet our every need. By inviting Him into our financial picture through prayer, we make a way for Him to speak, teach and direct our ways in the management of our finances. Is this a time of new beginnings for you; this year do you need a refresh in your financial discipleship journey?
By Ray Borg 16 Dec, 2022
In this season of Advent, I find myself reflecting upon the arrival of the Incarnation. The meaning of Advent has to do with ‘coming’ and implied in this process is the concept of waiting. The Christmas narrative encapsulates the process of waiting for the arrival for the Prince of Peace. Upon closer reflection, many of the Christmas story characters portrayed a sense of anticipation in their time of waiting. The first two chapters of Luke are filled with examples of individuals who believed the word of the Lord and held on tightly to promises divinely inspired. They were waiting for the arrival of the One who had been spoken of by the prophet Isaiah hundreds of years earlier in Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” In Isaiah 9:6-7 it was prophesied that the Saviour of the world would usher in a new kingdom. Malachi concludes by the promise of one yet to come in the spirit of Elijah. From this point on, over 400 years, nothing more was heard until Jesus arrived on the scene. That was a long period of waiting. But suddenly… Luke 1 tells us the story of Zacharias’s encounter with an angel while fulfilling his priestly duties. He is dumbstruck and left mute for a season. His wife Elizabeth becomes pregnant and bears a son. They both experience a season of waiting for the fulfilment of a promise – a forerunner preparing the way of the Lord. Mary is visited by an angel and told “And behold, you will conceive in our womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His Name Jesus.” (Luke 1:31) She is overshadowed by the Spirit of the Lord and conceives a child. She had a time of waiting for the birth of the one called Jesus. Simeon is promised he would not pass away until he saw the Consolation of Israel. As Jesus is presented on the eighth day Simeon is found in the temple. He lays his eyes on the One who would bring salvation to the Gentiles and to His people Israel. Simeon waited a long time. Then there is an 84-year-old prophetess named Anna who had been waiting daily in the temple serving the Lord with fastings and prayers day and night. In patience she beholds the fulfillment of her season of waiting. She speaks to others of the one to bring redemption in Jerusalem. At last the waiting comes to an end. He is Immanuel – God with us. He never changes. His love never fails reaching out to every individual, every city, and every nation. With compassion He embraces those who reach out to Him. He heals and restores our brokenness. He is the Prince of Peace bringing His peace to fill our hearts in the most trying of times. And He will come again! Are you waiting for Him this Advent season?
Show More
Share by: