Let's Talk Money with Dave and Reb

Do You Have Dove Eyes?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 20:09:50 GMT

"Behold, you are fair, my love! Behold, you are fair! You have dove’s eyes.”

(Song of Solomon 1:15)

Reflection:

Did you know that doves are known for their singular focus? Once a pair of doves bond, they do not wander from each other. They are not easily distracted by activities around them. Their unwavering devotion to one another mirrors the love the Father has for each of us - and the love He desires us to reciprocate. His desire is for our unwavering commitment and focus of heart: not being pulled in multiple directions or easily distracted, but having hearts fully rooted in His love and security.

The Song of Solomon captures this thought in the words in the verse above. Here, the beloved is not extolled merely for outward appearance or beauty, but for her eyes. This description speaks of devotion, focus, and a love that does not wander - either seeking its own interests or another’s. The beloved responds to His presence in obedience to His desire and purpose.

This posture of the heart reflects commitment, surrender, and transparency. Our gaze and heart are held steady, undivided, and focused on Him. There is absolute trust with no divided loyalties or wandering eyes - only simple devotion to the One who loves and commits to us wholeheartedly and forever. Our lives embrace His truth and actively seek it out. Our faith is strengthened and becomes unwavering through the challenges and circumstances of life.

Posturing our hearts in this way is central to our discipleship journey. The Gospels address one key aspect of life that has the potential to significantly impact the position of our hearts and distract us. It is called mammon.

Matthew 6:24 puts it quite clearly:

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

This verse describes the danger of becoming distracted, unfaithful, or divided in heart. When we give in to our humanity - our weaknesses, desires, and cravings for satisfaction - or when we lack understanding of God’s heart and Word on this matter, we can easily be taken off course.

When our gaze is focused on Him - it is a posture of trust that says, “Lord, You alone are my security, my provider, and my source of life.” When our gaze remains steady on Him, the competing voices of the world and that of our own lose their power to divide our hearts.

Singular devotion is not something that happens by accident - it is cultivated through daily choices. Our hearts are constantly being pulled in different directions by responsibilities, desires, pressures, and distractions. Yet the invitation of Jesus is simple: keep your eyes fixed on Him.

The good news is that God does not demand perfection - He invites surrender. Each day offers a fresh opportunity to refocus our hearts and renew our devotion. When we turn our gaze back toward Him, we discover that His love has never moved or changed.

May our lives reflect a quiet but unwavering devotion - hearts that remain fixed on Him with the steady, faithful focus of dove’s eyes.

Reflection Questions:

1. What currently competes for my attention and devotion?

2. Is there anything that has slowly drawn my eyes away from the One who loves me completely?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for loving me with a faithful and unwavering love. You know how easily my heart can become distracted by the concerns and desires of this world. Forgive me for the times my attention has drifted and my devotion has been divided.

Lord, teach me to keep my eyes fixed on You. Help me to cultivate a heart that is steady, devoted, and fully rooted in Your love. Guard my heart from anything that would compete for the place that belongs to You alone. Shape my desires so that they reflect Your heart. Strengthen my faith through the challenges of life, and remind me daily that You are my true source of security and provision.

May my life reflect a simple and sincere devotion to You. May it be said of me that my eyes are fixed on You alone.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Numbering Our Days

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 20:11:32 GMT

Scripture

“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” - Psalm 90:12

Reflection

This verse invites us to live with eternal awareness. When we pause to consider the limited number of days we have on earth, our priorities begin to shift. We become more intentional about where we invest our time, attention, and energy. What once felt urgent may lose its grip, while what truly matters - our relationship with God and others, the condition of our hearts, and the way we steward what He has entrusted to us - comes into clearer and sharper focus.

Numbering our days also calls us to examine our inner lives with earnestness. What are we allowing to take root in our thoughts and hearts? Are there offenses, unforgiveness, distractions, or unexamined habits that quietly pull us away from intimacy with the Lord? Living wisely means inviting God to search our hearts and aligning our lives with His ways and priorities.

Finances, taught in His Word, touches nearly every aspect of our lives. Although often avoided, we are invited to discover God’s heart in this area – to gain understanding, His perspective, and to grow in wisdom in this area. This pursuit results in treasures in heaven, a reality that should never be minimized or overlooked.

Wisdom, as Scripture teaches, begins with the fear of the Lord. It is not merely knowledge, but a daily pursuit and posture of surrender - walking with clean hands, a pure heart, and an eternal perspective. When we view our time, resources, and responsibilities through this lens, even ordinary decisions carry spiritual and eternal significance.

Reflection Questions

If I truly lived with an awareness of the brevity of my days, what priorities might need to change?
Where am I currently investing most of my time, energy, and attention?
Are there areas of my heart the Lord may be inviting me to surrender, forgive, or realign?
How am I stewarding what God has entrusted to me—my time, talents, and resources?
What does pursuing wisdom look like for me in this current season?

Prayer

Lord, teach me to number my days. Help me to live with intention, humility, and eternal perspective. Search my heart and reveal anything that stands between You and me. Give me wisdom to steward well all that You have entrusted to my care. Align my priorities with Yours, and shape my heart to reflect Your ways. May my life bring You honour—today and into eternity. Amen.

Your Gift of Wonder

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:20:16 GMT

Your Gift of Wonder

Wonder is defined as “a feeling of surprise mingled with admiration, caused by something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar, or inexplicable.” What fitting words for the mystery of God’s love shown at Christmas. And yet sometimes that sense of wonder at the Christmas story can get squeezed out by the frenetic pace of life during the season. The endless responsibilities and tasks can leave little room in our hearts and minds to experience the wonder of God’s incredible gift.

Yet, each time I read the Christmas narrative, I am captured by the wonder of it all and in awe of God’s unfolding plan.

Scene 1 - Zacharias, in fulfilling his priestly duties before the Lord, is suddenly met by an angel. Despite his wife Elizabeth’s old age and years of longing and unanswered prayer, the angel declares the impossible: a son will be born to them - one who will be great in the eyes of the Lord.

Scene 2 - Elizabeth’s cousin, Mary, is also visited by an angel, who tells her that, by the power of the Holy Spirit, she, a virgin, will miraculously conceive and bear a son. His name will be Jesus and He will be the Son of God. When Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth, the angel’s words are confirmed, and Mary’s spirit bursts forth in the Magnificat, proclaiming the greatness of God.

Scene 3 -When the long-awaited night arrives, Mary gives birth to the Son of God in a lowly stable. Shepherds in fields nearby are suddenly surrounded in heavenly glory as an angel proclaims the birth of the Saviour, Christ the Lord. In an instant, a multitude of the heavenly host fills the sky, praising God and declaring, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” The terrified shepherds were directed to the stable and found the baby Jesus wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger, making them the first witnesses and messengers of the Good News.

Scene 4 - When later Jesus was brought to the temple in Jerusalem, Simeon - a just and devout man waiting for the Consolation of Israel - is prompted by the Spirit to enter the temple at just the right moment. Taking the infant Jesus into his arms, he proclaims in prophetic joy, “For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared before the face of all peoples— a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.”

These scenes in the Gospel of Luke reveal a breathtaking sequence of miraculous events and angelic visitations - moments that reveal God’s glorious and unstoppable plan of redemption - changing the course of man’s history forever.

Even writing this I feel a renewed sense of wonder. The Creator of heaven and earth orchestrating seemingly inexplicable, unimaginable and yet beautiful events inspire awe - not only in those who first experienced them, but also for us in the reading and retelling of the miraculous birth of our Saviour. The nativity story is filled with wonder.

May you rediscover the holy wonder of this precious gift - the gift of His Son, given so that you and I might be forgiven, restored, and welcomed into eternal life with Him.

Like Father, Like Child

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 13:21:05 GMT

Scripture:

“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are His dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” ~ Ephesians 5:1-2 NLT

Reflection:

People often say that children resemble their parents in behaviour and attitude. In the Old Testament we see this truth in the genealogies - lists of names we might normally skim over. Yet they are there for a reason. Luke 3:23–28 records the lineage of Jesus, beginning with, “Jesus… the son of Joseph, the son of Heli, the son of Matthat…”

While in Israel years ago, I heard an Arab guide explain that, in his culture, a man is identified through his father’s line: “the son of so-and-so.” This immediately places a person within a family, revealing both their lineage and heritage and, often, their character or vocation. Introductions begin with one’s name, followed by “the son of…”

That thought made me pause and consider my own life - especially in how I manage money. As a follower of Christ, I have come to understand that all I have belongs to Him. I am simply a steward, entrusted to manage His resources wisely. One day, I will give an account of how I have done in this area. This truth challenges me to ask: does my stewardship reflect the heart of my Father?

Our Heavenly Father is extravagantly generous with His love. He gave His only Son so that we could be restored in fellowship to Him forever. If that is His nature, then my life - my giving, my generosity, my use of resources - should mirror that same open-handed expression of love.

Could it be said of me by others - “He behaves just like his Father”?

Reflection Questions:

Does my generosity reflect that I am my Father’s child?

In what ways can I more fully reflect His heart through the way I give and steward what He has entrusted to me?

Closing Prayer:

Father, thank You for Your extravagant love and generosity. You gave everything so that I could be Yours. Teach me to reflect Your heart in how I give, spend, and bless others. Help me to live as Your child—faithful, generous, and full of love. May my life point others to You. Amen.

The Brevity of Our Days

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 13:35:49 GMT

“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’ As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil.” ~ James 4:13 - 16

Reflection:

A recent death, expected or not, reminds you of the brevity of life here on earth. The familiar expectation of growing old and enjoying the later seasons of life takes on new weight when we are reminded that our time here can be cut short without warning.

This sobering reality invites us to reflect more deeply. Is there more to life than the daily grind - working endlessly, earning money, paying bills, and repeating the cycle? Is the goal simply to accumulate more things and set aside enough for a comfortable retirement?

Perhaps we’ve been asking the wrong questions.

What if, instead, we asked the Lord what He desires for our lives while we walk this earth? Could it be that He has greater purposes for us - plans we have yet to discover, let alone fulfill? Have we even invited Him into that conversation?

From the beginning of creation, God has called us to steward what He has placed in our hands. Our gifts, talents, and resources are not random - they are identifiable if we take the time to notice and reflect. This calling to stewardship has never been revoked.

The truth is, we do not know how much time we have left on this side of heaven to accomplish what God has asked of us. That reality should cause us to pause and consider: Where are we investing our time, our energy, and our focus? If we lived with this awareness, might we walk out our life with greater intentionality? Might it change our choices and our actions?

Life, unfortunately, often brings regrets. Some stay stuck in that space, never moving beyond past mistakes. Yet, God calls us to learn from those experiences - to grow, and to walk forward in wisdom. We are invited to mature through each season of life with the time we have been given.

So, let us ask ourselves: If we knew we had only a few months - or a year - to live, what would we do differently? What would truly matter? I suspect our values would shift. Our focus would become sharper. We might let go of certain habits and invest in what (and who) really matters.

Life is short, yes - but it is rich with opportunity when lived in step with God’s purposes. What we do with our time, energy, and resources matters - not just for this life, but for eternity.

Reflection Question:

If you knew you had only one year left to live, what would you change about how you are living today?

What is one area where God may be asking you to shift your focus or surrender control?

Closing Prayer:

Father, teach me to number my days and live wisely. Help me not to take my time on this earth for granted. Forgive me for the moments I have lived self-reliantly, without seeking Your will. Show me how to live each day with intention, humility, and eternal perspective. May my plans be surrendered to You. May my work, relationships, and choices reflect Your heart and purposes. Help me not to waste the time You have given me. Lead me in wisdom and grant me the courage to follow where You lead. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Knowing Our Source

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 15:08:07 GMT

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
— Philippians 4:19

Reflection:

We live in times that can feel anything but stable. The world is changing rapidly—conflict, natural disasters, and uncertainty fill our news feeds daily. It's easy to pause and ask, "God, where are You in all of this?"

Anxiety and fear are increasingly common responses to the chaos around us. People turn to different things to cope: information overload, denial, disengagement, or distraction. Some grow weary, some grow reckless, and others simply try to keep going as best they can.

But Jesus saw these days coming. He told His disciples in Matthew 24:6, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen...” These are not comforting words at first, but they do offer clarity. Jesus did not want His followers to be surprised—or shaken.

What is striking is that Jesus spoke these warnings with complete peace. He was not anxious, because He trusted the Father’s bigger plan. And He invites us into that same peace—not just as a comforting idea, but as a way of life.

When the world is unstable, Jesus reminds us that God is our unshakable source. Not just of peace, but of everything we need—wisdom, provision, strength, and direction.

Paul encourages us in 2 Corinthians 9:8: “ God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. ” No matter the season, our God is not lacking. And if we are rooted in Him, neither are we.

Reflection Question:

Where do you turn when uncertainty rises? Take a moment today to ask God to realign your heart. Whether it is fear, stress, or financial worry, surrender it to the One who holds it all—and holds you.

Closing Prayer:

Father, thank You that You are my source—of peace, of provision, and of every good thing. When the world feels uncertain, help me to remain grounded in You. I choose to trust You today, knowing You see the bigger picture. Let my heart find rest in Your presence. Amen.

Valuing What He Values

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 12:49:18 GMT

Scripture:

“Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold … but with the precious blood of Christ.” ~ 1 Peter 1:18–19 (NKJV)

Devotional Thought:

While spending time in God’s Word recently, I found myself reading Matthew 6 - a passage I have often turned to when discussing issues of money and materialism. This time, I read the entire chapter in one sitting, and it stirred something deeper in me.

As I reflected, I saw how Jesus was speaking directly to the heart - not just about money, but about what we truly value. The people of that time were caught up in outward appearances - how they prayed, how they fasted, how they managed their finances, and how they presented themselves. These public figures set the tone for what society viewed as valuable and praiseworthy.

But Jesus turned the focus inward. He taught that what truly matters is not external, but internal. It is the posture of the heart that determines our position in the Kingdom of God.

So often, we evaluate our worth by comparing ourselves with others. We unconsciously create a hierarchy of value based on possessions, accomplishments, or influence. But Jesus dismantled all of that. He exposed the false narratives we tell ourselves - and those society reinforces - and called us to something far more enduring.

Jesus invites us to a life of intimacy with the Father. In teaching the disciples how to pray, He revealed the depth of His relationship with God and extended that same invitation to us. Through this relationship, our hearts are transformed - filled with light, cleansed from darkness, and freed from the grip of materialism.

When we root our identity in the Father, we shed the need for pretense, masks, and self-promotion. In that sacred space of prayer and communion, Jesus offers us a new kind of freedom - a freedom not tied to wealth or status, but to eternal worth found in Him.

Reflection Question:

Are there things in your life that you have valued more than your relationship with Christ? What might He be asking you to release today?

Closing Prayer:

Father, thank You for loving me so intimately and for valuing me beyond what the world can offer. Help me to let go of the things that distract or define me falsely. Teach me to value what You value. I long to know You more deeply and to walk in the freedom that comes from intimacy with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

How Are You Walking

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 14:08:13 GMT

“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” ~ Ephesians 5:15-16

I recently read a blog that pointed out a striking truth: no one, rich or poor, lies on their deathbed wishing they had more money, houses, or cars. What they long for is more time—time with loved ones or time spent on what truly matters.

Ephesians 5 calls us to “walk circumspectly”—meaning with precision and care. To “redeem the time” is to rescue it from being wasted, to make it count. Time is one of our most precious, limited resources.

As Christians, our desire is to walk closely with God and serve Him well. Yet we live in a world full of distractions—work, entertainment, sports, social media, and endless activity all competing for our attention.

Paul’s words are strikingly relevant today: “the days are evil.” Most of us would not argue with that. His instruction is to walk wisely and intentionally. This applies to our finances.

Some people neglect to think about how they manage their money, while others obsess over it. Neither extreme reflects the wisdom Paul calls us to.

So, how do we walk wisely and carefully in this area?

It begins with intentionality. Managing money well involves examining our motivations, beliefs, experiences, and habits. How do these align with God’s Word and heart?

I encourage you to set aside time to sit quietly with the Lord—Bible, journal, and pen in hand—and reflect on your financial walk. Ask Him to reveal your heart. Here are some prompts to guide you:

· Father, how do You see my heart in this area? Write down what He reveals.

· Are there any behaviours that displease You? Confess and turn from them.

· Are there lies I believe about money or provision? Confess, repent and ask Him to replace

them with His truth.

· Thank Him for what He’s entrusted to you, and ask for wisdom to steward it well.

Paul's call is a reminder: time matters. How important it is now to understand how we manage our finances reflects our alignment—or misalignment—with God's heart. We can make course corrections. We can change our attitudes and beliefs. But ignoring this area means choosing foolishness—and that’s not the legacy we want.

Time is moving forward. We have the opportunity to walk wisely, to be a blessing, and to be blessed.

How will you respond?

Do You Know Your Heart?

Wed, 21 May 2025 12:57:59 GMT

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I, the Lord, search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.” ~ Jeremiah 17:9–10

These verses offer a sobering reminder of how easily our hearts can mislead us. God sees through our motives, thoughts, emotions, decisions, and behaviours. And despite knowing our inner struggles, He still holds us accountable—rewarding each person according to their actions.

This truth gave me pause. Do I honestly examine my heart? Am I willing to see what truly drives me—my emotions, reactions, beliefs, and decisions? If I am being honest, there’s a part of me that resists letting the Holy Spirit examine certain areas of my life. Especially the area of money.

Finances are tricky—layered, complex, and often hard to unpack. I suspect some of my beliefs and habits do not fully align with God’s heart for stewardship. And I do not think I am alone in this.

Many of us carry unspoken assumptions about money, often without realizing it:

· As long as the bills are paid, does it really matter where every dollar goes?

· I give a lot—so what’s wrong with treating myself now and then?

· Debt isn’t a sin, so why worry about it?

· Credit cards and loans are just part of modern money management.

· I have worked hard and now I get to lay back and enjoy it.

· Do I really need to let anyone—God included—into how I manage my money?

Not all of us wrestle with these exact thoughts, but if you are honest, what would the Lord say about your internal dialogue? How about the deep, hidden attitudes of your heart?

One clear example is the prodigal son’s brother who refused to celebrate his brother’s return. He felt entitled to certain rights. He had been faithful, worked hard and was deserving of more attention. He could not appreciate his brother’s journey through pain and failure. His pride kept him from experiencing God’s real grace. He felt he gained acceptance only by doing his job.

Are you truly at peace with where your money goes—into savings, spending, investments, retirement, tithes, or gifts? Some decisions may come from wisdom and care; others might be driven by pride, fear or complacency. Some of our beliefs lead to a sense of entitlement to certain rights. Reflection on each of these areas might prove fruitful. Hidden beliefs, motives and behaviours may come to light and facilitate some course adjustment.

The good news? God is both just and merciful. He responds when we ask for help. He never gives up on us, and He gently teaches those who open their hearts to Him. With His guidance, we can reshape our beliefs, change our habits, and learn to steward what He has placed in our hands with integrity and a sense of contentment.

Responding to the Call...

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:21:17 GMT

"As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, 'Follow Me.' So, he arose and followed Him." ~ Matthew 9:9

Have you ever considered the makeup of the men Jesus chose as His disciples? Looking at their character, personality, and professions, many of us would likely reject them outright—too rough, not the right fit. But Jesus knew exactly who He was calling.

Matthew’s calling stands out. As a tax collector, he was an outcast in society, hated by most. With the government's blessing, he extracted taxes from his own people, making him a figure of scorn.

Yet, Jesus saw something in him. The call to follow Jesus wasn’t just a command—it was a connection. Matthew responded, recognizing his need for Jesus and Jesus’ need for him. Matthew immediately invited his friends to join him at the dinner table with Jesus. He knew he wanted them to meet this man.

Matthew’s transformation began the moment he answered that call. Being with Jesus changes people. Mindsets shift, perspectives are altered, and old habits are replaced by new ways of living. The lives of the other chosen disciples were also radically altered forever.

For Matthew, a former tax collector or customs officer, his life was defined by manipulation and exploitation for personal gain. But over time, Jesus’ love began to heal the wounds inflicted by others and dissolved the mistrust that once controlled him. His change was so profound that he went on to write a book of the Bible that told the story about this man who so changed his life.

Jesus didn’t just change his heart; He also reshaped Matthew’s understanding and approach to money. What once drove him—greed and manipulation—was replaced by a new appreciation of the purpose and proper use of money. Matthew’s transformation started with a heart change, which then shifted his motivations and actions. No longer a taker but now a giver to all in need.

Matthew’s journey mirrors our own. As we draw closer to Jesus, He begins to change our hearts. New truths emerge, transforming our thinking and our lives from the inside out. What once felt familiar and comforting can and will begin to lose its appeal.

Perhaps there are areas of our own financial lives that God wants to transform—new habits, fresh perspectives, and opportunities to bless others.

Why hold back when He can bring change to this crucial area of our lives?

Who's in Control?

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 13:06:13 GMT

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with Me.” ~ Revelation 3:20

Years ago, a friend shared a question she asked her son: If your life were a car and the Lord was traveling with you, where would He sit? Would He be behind the steering wheel, in the passenger seat, in the backseat, or in the trunk? Her son, honestly, replied that the Lord was in the backseat.

I have heard similar questions asked, and responses vary. I suspect many people have not deeply considered such a question. Life moves on, and many go through their days without truly reflecting on the Lord’s presence, perhaps only thinking of Him on Sundays during church. For some, it might be as if He’s in the trunk—part of their life, but not central or meaningful.

Others may be more aware of the Lord throughout the week, consulting Him occasionally when it’s convenient or necessary. These individuals might think of the Lord as sitting behind them in in the backseat.

Then, there are those who clearly desire the Lord’s presence in their lives. They seek His guidance, believing He plays a vital role in their life’s direction. For them, the Lord sits next to them in the passenger seat, involved but not in complete control.

Lastly, some have made the conscious decision to place the Lord fully in the driver’s seat of their lives. They have surrendered control, handing Him not only the keys but also the car, trusting Him with the direction and course of their lives. They have invited Him into every aspect of their being, recognizing His ultimate authority over them.

The same can be said of how we manage our finances. Some acknowledge the Lord’s influence, but only marginally. Others may consult Him occasionally when making financial decisions, knowing He has something to say about money in His Word, but they still maintain control.

However, there are those who understand that everything they have—finances included—belongs to the Lord. They recognize that He has full authority over how their money is spent, saved, and invested. They seek to be obedient to how He leads and directs every step of the way. They trust that He provides the increase or decrease as He sees fit, knowing His purposes are far greater than their understanding. This allows for them to experience His power and presence every day of their lives. He becomes more than an honoured guest.

So, where have you placed the Lord in your financial discipleship "car"?

New Beginnings

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 20:56:11 GMT

“Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” ~ Isaiah 43:18-19

Each new year brings an opportunity to reflect on God’s goodness throughout the past year—to thank Him for His blessings and the ways He has worked in our lives. These moments of reflection often reveal insights we may have missed earlier. Hindsight provides deeper understanding, helping us grasp lessons learned and cherish meaningful memories and experiences.

Of course, reflection also brings regrets. Poor decisions, often made hastily or without fully understanding the context, can leave lasting consequences. Unresolved emotions, painful memories, and lingering conflicts demand our attention, pushing us toward resolution and growth.

True new beginnings require letting go of the past. Forgiving those who have hurt us and practicing self-forgiveness are among life’s greatest challenges. Yet, our Heavenly Father invites us into His loving embrace, urging us to release our doubts, fears, and shame. He wants us to lay down the burdens of the past year and trust Him to carry them.

When we release the disappointments, misgivings, and uncertainties of the previous season, we create space for fresh vision and creativity. Hope arises, and a renewed sense of anticipation strengthens our faith. Isaiah’s words continue to resonate, reminding us that God desires to do something new and transformative in our lives. Just as He was faithful to His covenant people, Israel, He remains faithful to us today.

God’s plans are beyond what we can imagine or achieve on our own. His ways and timing are perfect, unobstructed, and immeasurably creative. Even in the most challenging circumstances, He can make a way when no way seems possible.

For many, financial struggles can feel like an insurmountable wilderness. Debt, rising expenses, and financial pressures can seem overwhelming, often compounded by unwise decisions or commitments. These challenges can feel like a suffocating weight.

Yet, God promises to make a way. His provision and guidance are real and trustworthy. To position ourselves to receive His promises, we must open our hearts to His redeeming love and allow Him to transform our attitudes, beliefs, and habits. When we invite God to refine our approach to money management, He can lead us into newfound freedom and peace.

As you step into this new year, take a moment to consider: What new beginnings are you hoping for? What areas of your life need God’s touch? Release the old into His hands, and allow Him to work in ways that only He can. Trust in His promise to make a way—even in the wilderness—and let hope rise within you.

Responding to the Storms of Life

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:21:32 GMT

"But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, 'Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?' When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Silence! Be still!' Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm.” – Mark 4:37-39, NLT

In this passage, we see Jesus with the disciples as a fierce storm hits their boat. Despite the chaos, Jesus remains asleep, seemingly unconcerned. He had planned to cross the Sea of Galilee, and this storm was part of a larger teaching moment. His purpose? To see how the disciples would respond to the storm while He rested.

Many of us also recall the moment when Peter stepped out of the boat to walk on water. He did fine until his focus shifted to the waves, and then he began to sink (Matthew 14:30). In both instances, the disciples were acting in obedience to Jesus’ direction, even though they faced storms.

Being in a storm doesn’t mean we’ve done something wrong or are out of God’s will. Even with Jesus in the boat, the disciples still encountered the storm. The question is: how do we respond when life gets stormy?

Do we call out to Jesus for help? Or do we try to solve the problem ourselves, relying on our own strength and strategies, inadvertently displaying our independence and self-sufficiency? Often, this leads us away from trusting in God.

God’s desire is for us to turn to Him, acknowledging our dependence and trust in His ability to guide us through the storms.

We all face financial storms—financial setbacks, sudden illness, job loss, overwhelming bills, business struggles, or losses in the markets. No one is immune.

Our response to these challenges impacts both our financial and spiritual growth. The two aspects are closely tied together. Sometimes, it’s a walk of faith, making decisions without knowing the outcome – simply following the Lord’s leading. Other times, we try to avoid the problem, only making it worse as the situation spirals.

Ultimately, our response reveals where our trust lies. When we cry out to God in the storm, we are acknowledging that He is with us and will lead us through. There’s no better way to weather the storm than to rely on His strength, not our own.

Our Finances Laid Bare: What is God Revealing?

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 16:13:42 GMT

“He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him.” ~ Daniel 2:21-22

As we navigate the constant stream of social media posts, news updates, and blog entries, it's hard to miss the frequent revelations about leaders, especially those within the Body of Christ. These exposés often lead to profound repercussions, including the disillusionment of those who once looked up to these leaders.

My American pastor friend recently observed that each week seems to bring news of another pastor stepping down due to inappropriate conduct. The fallout is tragic, often leading some to question their faith. Yet, these revelations serve a higher purpose: they challenge leaders to reflect on their lives, what they model and how they manage the resources entrusted to them by God both the sheep and the money.

However, God's exposure is not limited to only leaders; it extends to our personal finances as well. Consider how Daniel 2:22 speaks to us: “He reveals the deep and hidden things.” This can certainly apply to our financial lives. Sometimes we actively seek God’s guidance, asking Him to illuminate our financial decisions. Other times, He brings issues to light to prompt us to make necessary changes.

What Is God Revealing About Your Finances?

As you examine your financial habits, ask yourself:

Are you an owner or a manager? Do you see your wealth as something you control and accumulate, or as a stewardship entrusted to you by God?
Is your focus on accumulation or generosity? Are you driven by the desire to amass wealth, or are you seeking to use your resources to bless others?
Do you trust in yourself or in God as your source? Are your financial decisions based on self-reliance or faith in God’s provision?
Do you seek power and status, or aim to serve with humility? Are your financial goals motivated by status and power, or by a desire to serve and encourage others?
Do you live for the present or plan for the future? Are your financial choices geared toward immediate gratification, or do they reflect a vision for the future and beyond into eternity?

Imagine if someone were to observe your financial transactions, whether they’re purchases, online orders, or the management of bills, investments, and savings. How would they view your priorities and habits? What would they discern about your values and trust?

God is ever-aware of our financial practices and desires for us to act with integrity and awareness of His presence. He invites us to reflect on our financial choices and motivations, bringing to light what may be hidden in the depths of our hearts.

What Might God Want to Bring into the Light About Your Finances?

As you ponder these questions, be open to God’s revelations. He might be calling you to reassess your financial priorities, to shift from a mindset of ownership to stewardship, or to embrace a more generous and humble approach. These reflections are not just about adjusting your budget but about aligning your financial practices with a Kingdom perspective.

Consider making new decisions that set a new course for your financial health and spiritual growth. Allow God to expose what is hidden and guide you into a new journey of discovery, freedom and blessings.

How Does Your Money and Possessions Define You?

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 18:17:37 GMT

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” ~ Ephesians 2:10

Over the years, my travels and experiences have allowed me to observe individuals from various economic backgrounds. From those on welfare or pensions to millionaires and people living in third-world nations, I have seen a wide range of financial situations.

Many of these individuals identify as Christians and share a common heart: to bless the Lord and be generous, following His prompting to give. They understand the principles of tithing and giving, incorporating these practices into their lives. However, the significance and consistency of these practices vary widely.

Observations of Financial Attitudes

1. Entitlement Mentality: Some individuals relying on financial support exhibit a sense of entitlement, believing they are "owed" funds for various reasons. While some reasons are legitimate, others border on illegal. This entitlement often stems from a victim mentality, lacking self-awareness and empowerment, which prevents them from assuming a different mindset about their finances.

2. Financial Responsibility: Others demonstrate purposeful financial management, steadily managing their debt and growing their resources. However, some take a laissez-faire approach, not tracking their spending or debts, letting money come and go without much thought.

3. Giving for Recognition: I have observed individuals who give out of a sense of duty but seek acknowledgment, looking for accolades and a need to appear well-off. For them, giving is tied to receiving blessings and social validation.

4. Third World Generosity: In third-world nations, the perspective is often different. People give out of humility and honour, even when they have little to offer. Their generosity can be overwhelming, teaching us about the true spirit of giving without expecting anything in return. Not receiving would disappoint and wound.

5. Wealth and Humility : Those with significant wealth often display contrasting attitudes. Some flaunt their riches, seeking the limelight and using their finances to influence others. In contrast, others with considerable wealth walk in humility, their wealth and possessions not defining them. Their identity remains rooted in Christ.

Reflection

How do your money and possessions shape your identity?

Wise or Foolish?

Wed, 29 May 2024 19:08:32 GMT

“Take care, and be on guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” ~ Luke 12: 15

Randy Alcorn’s fictional book Deception depicts various conversations and activity taking place in heaven. These dialogues made me pause and consider my own thoughts of heaven. What really will heaven be like? Randy builds a strong correlation between how we live our lives here on earth and what we will be doing in heaven. This reminded me of Scriptures about our activities on earth resulting in laying up treasures in heaven.

The parable of the rich fool found in Luke 12:13-21 would also suggest this truth.

Jesus uses startling language in the midst of the parable. He calls the rich man a fool. Such was the shock value of this parable for the listeners. The rich man had bought into the lie – work hard, be successful, kick back, and party away the rest of your life. He had become self-absorbed and self-serving with his success and abundance, no regard for others.

The creation or gain of wealth is not the issue. The concern is the lack of recognition and acknowledgement of wealth’s source exposing the attitude of the heart. The rich man does not inquire of the Lord about the purpose or intent of his success and wealth. He had become complacent and self-sufficient. He coveted another lifestyle.

What does this have to do with us? The subtlety of desiring wealth and success above all else can slip in so easy and unnoticed. The desire gives way for a larger home, a perfect vacation, and even a cottage or speed boat. Nothing is wrong with any of these things, but what might be the motivation behind these desires? Our energies often more than not, become focused on these desires. Might the Lord have others plans for us and our abundance?

Fundamentally, the parable’s core premise is the rebuke of Jesus to the rich man for his focus on living in the here and now. There is no awareness of anyone beyond himself. No emphasis on the Source. No attention to the needs of his servants in light of their role in his success. No appreciation of his life’s activities impacting his future in eternity.

God’s challenge to the rich man focuses on the sudden ending of his life and what will then become of his wealth. Fool is not a term of endearment. The name is a clear and resounding rebuke.

Is there more to life than striving to accumulate wealth for ourselves? Perhaps it is time to ask ourselves that defining question.

Have You Contended with Mammon

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 18:39:47 GMT

Jesus gives the people a clear and poignant warning when He makes the statement – “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other. Or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” (Matthew 6:24)

What might it look like to contend with mammon?

· You can’t help yourself from buying something you like when seeing it online

· You watch your investments drop several thousand dollars in one day and your feel fear gripping your heart

· You watch your bank accounts doubling in size with an inheritance and suddenly you sense an immense level of power and control

· Your inbox is filled with several invoices and worry and anxiety fill your heart

· A ministry you know well asks for some additional funds and you struggle to donate

· Your check out your credit card statement and see how much is owing and dread and depression descend upon you

The voices of the spirit of Mammon daily vie for our attention. Contending with this spirit requires us to understand its motive and that no one is immune from its temptations.

It seeks to distract and entice, to undermine our security and trust in the Lord, and to provide a false sense of identity, peace, joy and love. This spirit misleads us into believing we have our significance and value in this world due to our wealth and status.

The voices are subtle but subversive, stealing our peace and joy leaving us empty and anxious.

This spirit seeks to win our affections and trust in the things of this world. But we know that trusting in Jesus and turning to Him to provide and advise is the only thing that truly satisfies our troubled soul.

Jesus seeks a people who recognize this spirit called Mammon and are neither overwhelmed nor intimidated by it but they have come to the place where they realize and recognize its sway and have learned to subdue and conquer it in their heart and spirit.

Now is the time to recognize this spirit’s power. Will it rule us or will we walk free of its influence in our lives? It is our own choice – found in our daily choices.

Investing - Money with a Mission

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:52:13 GMT

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.

Knowing the Difference for 2024 - The work of the Lord - or - the Lord of the Work

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 21:13:42 GMT

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

Eternal Significance

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 18:12:59 GMT

“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?

Destroying the High Places

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 17:53:42 GMT

“ 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.

The Things We Tell Ourselves

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 18:04:50 GMT

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.

Do You Know Where You are Headed?

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 15:30:47 GMT

“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?

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Fri, 12 May 2023 15:10:30 GMT

“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?

Abiding in the Vine

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 13:51:41 GMT

“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.

New Beginnings

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 19:28:18 GMT

“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?

Who are You Waiting For?

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 17:33:43 GMT

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?

Knowing the Times

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 13:35:16 GMT

“And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” ~ Matthew 24:12-14

As His time was drawing to a close on earth, Jesus wanted the disciples to be prepared for what was yet to come. They had experienced life under Roman occupation and thought it was severe but Jesus warned there was much worse to come.

Jesus provides a descriptive understanding of what the situation would look like in Matthew 24 – rumours of wars, nation rising up against nation, famines, pestilences and earthquakes. Sounds pretty much like our current news cast.

In the early part of the chapter in verse 6, Jesus cautions the people from becoming troubled by what they saw and heard, stating that all of these signs need to come to pass.

As I reflect on this chapter, so many of the signs Jesus spoke of are evident today. One then adds the others He mentions – people being offended, hating one another, deception arising, lawlessness growing and the love of many growing cold.

Upon further reflection of the latter descriptors, I wonder how many are rooted in the need for money, power and control. These issues are prevalent around the world and very much the fabric of today’s culture. Unfortunately, my observation is that these very issues are also becoming evident in the church

Jesus warned His disciples and the people – chose whom you will serve – the Lord or mammon (Matthew 6:24). Mammon is bed partners with greed and a desire for power and control. Mammon’s influence is part of today’s landscape and will only grow in greater power as people fall under its power due to fear and anxiety about how to survive in hard times. This spirit is another sign of the times.

I believe that the Lord desires us to be dependent on Him, trusting Him for our provision and security rather than money or any other thing. In a time of uncertainty as Jesus described in Matthew 24, we are to be about the work of the Father. Jesus did not focus on the tyranny of the Roman occupation, but taught about the Kingdom of heaven being at hand. He commanded His disciples to preach the gospel and disciple all nations.

I would encourage us all to consider what are the signs of the time as His Word describes and as we scan the landscape of today’s world. We need to guard our hearts in the midst of these realities and the issues that would cause us to lose our focus. Jesus invited us to be a part of His Kingdom work. Are we seeing the gospel preached and going to the nations? Do we each have a role to play in seeing this happen?

I believe that is the case for each one of us. May we keep our focus on what God has called us to do in this season while at the same time discerning the times in which we live.

In Whom or What do You Trust?

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 12:46:42 GMT

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” ~ Psalm 20:7

I find myself being challenged as I reflect on the current status of life and the world around me. I check my investment statements and see no uptick but rather a slow decline. I see the cost of basic necessities like food, gas and just about everything else I need going up with some regularity. Making sense of an ever-increasing complex world and how I fit into it, is becoming a matter of reflection and prayer.

I was reminded of the above verse in relation to my own situation. One can become easily overwhelmed and lose perspective. Some people immediately determine what things they can do differently to improve their situation to ensure they have a growing abundance of provision for what is ahead. They study the markets and make changes to their investment portfolios. They consider all options and explore whether they should have gold and silver in hand, invest in new cryptocurrencies and ensure they have other assets or US funds.

The first three verses of Colossians 3 prompt us with an important principle. “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” We are to set our minds upon those things above. Hoes does one do that? Undertaking this principle is not an easy feat when our thoughts and emotions become so entangled and tightly bound.

In essence, we are encouraged to have a heavenly perspective – one that God wants us to have when we commit our ways and challenges to Him. When yielded to Him and asking Him for insight and wisdom, He gives us understanding and often a fresh perspective of our situation.

If we think about taking photos of the scenery around us, we see what is visibly available to our eye, but more recently with the advancement of drones, we can now take aerial shots from varying heights, bringing a whole different perspective from which we are familiar. Might not the Lord do the same thing for us – give us a completely different view from a different lens.

Jesus encourages us not to let our hearts be troubled by the rumour of wars, famines, pestilences and earthquakes – something so evident today. (Matt. 24:6-7). Our lives are but a vapor and our breathe is no more.

I realize the issue for me is one of trust – in whom or what do I trust? Do I trust in my money tucked away in savings and investment accounts or do I trust the Lord to be my source of comfort, peace and joy?

Watching investments decrease in value does test our hearts. Do we really trust money in the ‘bank’ to make us comfortable or is it the knowledge that God has the larger picture of my life and has all things well in hand?

What or whom do you trust in this season?

Is Your Heart Stirred?

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 14:29:10 GMT

“Then everyone came whose heart was stirred, and everyone whose spirit was willing, and they brought the Lord’s offering for the work of the tabernacle of meeting, for all its service, and for the holy garments.” Exodus 35:21

Recently I was listening to John Rinehart, author of Gospel Patron, address a group, reading from 2 Corinthians 9 and Paul’s recollection of the saints’ faithfulness in allowing their hearts to be stirred to provide for his needs. John used the example of making a cake from scratch, adding and mixing all the ingredients. In the stirring of the ingredients, you have the making of a cake -an outcome and reward.

John Rinehart’s message brought to mind my earlier reading of Exodus 35 and part of chapter 36. I felt myself being led by the Lord to read this account of the building of the tabernacle. As I read through the account, I was fascinated by the response of the Israelites to Moses’ words in verse 5 “’Take from among you an offering to the Lord. Whoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it as an offering to the Lord…” The specific needs were identified by Moses, from precious metals, to skins, wood and specific stones.

As you read on, over and over one hears how the people responded not only with items needed, but their skills and talents to be a part of fashioning each aspect of the tabernacle. One can sense the excitement that must have permeated the camp as people became involved in the task. Their hearts were stirred to participate and engage in what God was doing. They had never seen what was to be constructed but there was an anticipation as they joined in the process.

As you read further, you discover the fullness of the response of the people. “’Let neither man or woman do any more work for the offering of the sanctuary.’ And the people were restrained from bringing, for the material they had was sufficient for all the work to be done indeed too much.” (Ch. 36:6-7)

As I watch from the sidelines in my role at the Canadian National Christian Foundation, I am watching the hearts of donors being stirred in this season. Many of our donor’s hearts are being moved by the Lord to give to various causes to see the Kingdom of God extended through a variety of charities, ministries and evangelistic outreaches across the globe. No longer being done at year’s end, people are engaging in partnering with others to see visions and mandates fulfilled. My heart is stirred watching what God is doing in the lives of our donors.

Given the current global economy, could this be a season or a window of opportunity that God is highlighting and stirring His people to be moved to sow into ministries and projects? Is this a time and hour where we need to be alert to what God is doing, seeing how He is advancing the Kingdom in so many places and ways, and partnering with Him in all that He is doing?

Is God stirring your heart in this hour and what are you doing about it?

Talking to Your Children About Money

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 17:52:26 GMT

Sometimes money is the elephant in the room.

Money can be a hard subject to talk about, especially to your family. A lot of Boomers in particular were raised with the idea that it was rude to bring up the subject of money. However, it’s one of the most important conversations you’ll have with your family.

It’s a delicate subject, and one that not too many of us really want to broach. What happens to our money when we die?

If you’re like most of our clients, the topic is an important one. After all, you’ve worked hard to earn money, to save it and to make sure your family has opportunities and financial security. It’s only natural to be concerned about what happens to your money when it passes into the hands of your children or other designates.

It can be valuable peace of mind knowing that your children will have opportunities and financial security. However, generational wealth can be a double-edged sword, leading to difficulty and family dysfunction if your children aren’t primed and ready to receive the financial windfall. Stories abound of people who inherit wealth and lose it quickly because they are ill-equipped to manage it properly.

How do you walk that fine line with your children? How do you share with children the finer things in life –– the things you’ve worked hard to earn, and at the same time teach them to appreciate the things they have and to emulate your work ethic? How do you prevent them from becoming spoiled or entitled?

INVOLVE YOUR CHILDREN EARLY ON

First, let us be clear that we don’t have all the answers. We are seeking at the same time as offering guidance. We are open to dialogue and learning from others as we sense is true for many of our clients. With a good degree of humility, here are some ideas.

A good starting point is to involve your children in family meetings. Include them in discussions around whether to buy a new car or replace the old windows in the back of the house. These conversations can show children the need to make sacrifices and hard choices in life –– a skill that will be important for them in adulthood or when it comes time to inherit your assets.

Some of us grew up close to our parent’s work or businesses. We saw how hard they worked and learned to appreciate their work ethic. That’s not the case with all families. Often a parent’s career is something of a mystery to their children. The wealth that comes with that career can also be a mystery or be taken for granted.

Family meetings go a long way to putting everyone on the same page. It’s important to give children a good sense of just how the money was earned. It often didn’t come as a result of good fortune or because we’re all exemplary human beings. It came because we worked hard, struggled, took risks and learned. Passing on the family ethos on money should be an important focus of these family meetings.

ESTABLISH A MISSION STATEMENT

Family meetings are great way to establish a family mission statement by setting common goals, identifying charitable causes and other strategies that all your family members can get behind.

At the same time family meetings can be a powerful platform for improving the cohesiveness of the family unit and can give older family members a voice in how their own legacy is carried forward. The opportunity exists to teach about generosity and giving. You probably have strong ideas about philanthropy and the kinds of causes you support. Talking about your passions can help to instill a similar sense of philanthropy in them, no matter the dollar amounts involved.

Once they reach a certain age it’s also a good idea to bring them to financial meetings with your advisor. I’ve had clients bring their adult children to meetings. It can be an extremely positive experience. It usually starts off with a few simple questions and often evolves into an in-depth conversation about investing, money management and taxes. These meetings are also the perfect time to enter into discussions your own personal values regarding wealth, investing and philanthropy. This is your opportunity to pass some of those values on to your children.

I’ve found that it can be a two-way learning experience. The conversation often triggers questions or ideas in the parent as well on topics they haven’t considered or may not understand.

Regular meetings can teach children a powerful lesson about money. These meetings also give them an opportunity to meet and get to know your financial team –¬– a group they may need or want to work with in the future.

CONSIDER A LIVING INHERITANCE

There is an alternative to leaving it all behind that has become popular in recent years and it is known as a “living inheritance”. It is the practice of helping children with finances while you are still alive. Establishing a living inheritance can mean anything from paying for education, helping with a new home or car, investing in a business or paying for family vacations. For a young person trying to establish themselves, a living inheritance can be life-changing. For the parent it’s a way of enjoying their money by watching their children use and enjoy it.

There are a number of effective tax strategies that families can take advantage of with a little forethought and pre-planning –– strategies that will allow your children to maximize their inheritance. As your financial advisors, we can serve as a crucial advisory board for your family when it comes to developing an inheritance strategy.

Losing a parent can be a tumultuous and confusing time, often made more difficult by the fact that your children suddenly have to start working with your financial team. Everything can go much smoother if they already know your attorneys, accountants and wealth managers and have worked with them before.

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Our guest blogger is Brent Vandermeer, CIM, FCSI who is a Portfolio Manager & Managing Partner at CrossPoint Financial and a valued member of the Canadian National Christian Foundation Investment Committee.

Making Your Investments Count

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 13:15:46 GMT

“We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. We heap up wealth, not knowing who will spend it.” ~ Psalm 39: 6 NLT

I suspect many of us have been recently shocked by the numbers on our investment statements. The statements have brought a reality check as markets tumble and stock prices drop drastically. The veracity of our economic situation finds a resting place in our thoughts, not to mention in our hearts and emotions. For some, fear and anxiety become overwhelming and debilitating for some.

In uncertain times many of us would like to hope we can continue to provide on a daily basis for those we love as well as save for the future or for those we leave behind.

Scriptures have much to say about how we manage our finances entrusted to us. On one hand we are reminded to be shrewd as the servant described in Matthew 25:14-30 and on the other, we are exhorted to give regard to the uncertainty of earthly investments as noted in Matthew 6:19 “…where moths and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal…” as evident today by unstable financial systems. We must strike a balance between the value of earthly possessions and those we lay up as citizens of a heavenly Kingdom.

We are exhorted by the Apostle Paul to give attention to where we are sowing our finances – a place that is secure and never loses its value. This process is done with an attitude that reflects our hope and trust is not in money alone but in the One whom entrusted us with it in the first place.

Our time, effort, words, actions, and prayers also reflect our commitment to the Lord and investment in the Kingdom of God. These contributions are in keeping with the instructions to invest in those things that are of lasting and enduring value – when tested by fire at judgement day they will not be destroyed (1 Corinthians 3:12-15)

We live in a time where we need to ask the Lord where He is seeking for us to invest in all respects. Are our investments of eternal value and of lasting endurance? We need to recognize that our financial investments are not our source and should never become a god. We should also never seek to create huge barns thinking this is enough for tomorrow to only discover the next day our life has been taken away. (Luke 12:16-21)

We need to be discerning and led by the Holy Spirit as to how to be the best stewards of our resources and finances, both now and into eternity. This giving is not dependent on whether they are large or small, but in response to an awareness that we are accountable for all entrusted to us. As He speaks, we seek to be found obedient.

Father, may you help each of us to be “as shrewd as serpents and as gentle as a dove…” (Matthew 10:16) in our stewardship responsibilities in this hour.

What Does a Wealth Line Mean?

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 13:12:33 GMT

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.” ~ 1 Timothy 6: 17-18

Recently while preparing to do a radio show with my friends Dave and Rebecca Van Noppen on the “Let’s Talk Money” program, I was asked to respond to a question posed by a client – what is your wealth line? I had never heard the term ‘wealth line’ so had to give some thought as to what this concept might mean.

As I thought about this term, I concluded it had to do with knowing the amount of income you could live off of and use the additional monies for other purposes. I am not sure most of us have ever given this idea much thought – at least not myself.

There is this saying that the more money you make, the more you increase your spending. In other words, you spend according to your income level. Many believe that you should be guided by the 50/30/20 rule which simply means that you should be spending 50% of your monthly expenses such as rent, mortgage, monthly bills and groceries. Then 30% of your income should be spent on non-essential purchases like going out to eat and then 20% being placed in savings.

Those are interesting ratios which made me wonder if I as a Christian should I be doing likewise or is there another approach? Given all that we have been entrusted comes from the Lord, perhaps the question really should be – “Lord, how much do You want me to give back to you?”

I have heard of individuals who have established clear financial goals, seeking to give a certain percentage of their income each year and increasing that year over year. In the process, they have learned to live off of less and give more. However, many who have sought to live this way also testify that the Lord has multiplied their resources and they have seen the blessing of the Lord on their lives.

As I reflect upon the above verses from 1 Timothy 6: 17-18, I am reminded that I should not put my trust in money or mammon. I am to put my trust in the Lord as my Provider and seek to steward my resources well, looking to be obedient to all He asks of me in sharing my blessings with others.

I find myself further pondering the question – what does a wealth line mean for me? I think it may be a question each of us needs to ask ourselves on a regular basis as good stewards before the Lord.

What would your response be to this important question?

Bringing Your Faith to Your Finances

Wed, 11 May 2022 15:25:51 GMT

“Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” ~ 2 Chronicles 20:15

As I reflect over the years of our married life, I see how there have been many occasions when I have allowed ourselves to get into financial trouble. Being the one responsible for the finances in our household, I made justifications for the ongoing debt issues. For me, this lifestyle appeared to be the norm amongst my peer group.

At times, the debt load seemed insurmountable. On other occasions, I just simply ignored and suppressed the emotions. There were occasions when things seemed manageable and our debts were paid off but being debt free was never a lasting state.

I have come to discover in the past few years that as we come to the Lord and present our finances to Him, He meets us where we are. He comes with His love and encouragement rather than the anticipated guilt and condemnation. If we open our hands and ask Him to lead us in this area, He comes alongside us and begins to take us by the hand. This does not mean a passive, observer role, but rather we are an active participant.

The above verse reminds us God will battle for us, but we need to show up and be actively present as the Lord battles on our behalf. This process often requires making steps of faith to step out in uncertain and unfamiliar ways to us.

Jesus demonstrates this feat as he fed the 5,000. He had compassion on the people because they were hungry. Rather than sending them off to the local market as His disciples suggested, He asked them what they had - five loaves and two fishes. Jesus blessed these meagre supplies and asked the disciples to distribute the goods. Five thousand men’s mouths were filled and twelve baskets were left over. God met the people right where they were at.

Their mealtime took a simple act of releasing five loaves and two fishes to Jesus. He looked to His father as He blessed the bread and broke it up. The multitudes were fed and had their needs met. He desires to provide for us when we offer all that we have – as simple and meagre as those goods may be. He has the ability to multiply and do the supernatural. We engage with Him and give all that we have.

My wife and I have seen supernatural provision happen over and over again in our married lives as we surrender our finances and allow Him to lead, being obedient as He asks of us. He has met our needs as we sought to be submissive, multiplied our resources and provided supernaturally when we least expected it.

Five fishes and two loaves of bread in the hands of the Lord can yield great supply. Our money and possessions, released to Him, can yield untold miracles in the hands of the One who provides them in the first place.

Entering into the Spring Season of Life

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 17:37:06 GMT

“If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” ~ Romans 8:11

Various devotionals in relation to Lent, Passover and Holy Week have been filling my inbox the past few weeks. For many of us, this season is an opportunity to pause and reflect on Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. What might this timeless truth hold for my spiritual growth in this moment in time?

I recently read a reflection published by the C.S. Lewis Institute and was struck by a quote taken from C.S. Lewis’s article “ The Grand Miracle” in his book God in the Dock.

“ To be sure, it feels wintry enough still: but often in the very early spring it feels like that. Two thousand years are only a day or two by this scale. A man really ought to say, ‘The Resurrection happened two thousand years ago’ in the same spirit in which he says, ‘I saw a crocus yesterday.’ Because we know what is coming behind the crocus. The spring comes slowly down this way; but the great things is that the corner has been turned. There is, of course, this difference, that in the natural spring the crocus cannot choose whether it will respond or not. We can. We have the power either of withstanding the spring, and sinking back into the cosmic winter, or going on into those ‘high mid-summer pomps’ in which our leader, the Son of man, already dwells, and to which He is calling us. It remains with us to follow or not, to die in this winter, or to go on into that spring and that summer.”

In Hebrew thought, life has cycles and seasons. There is the 24-hour period, the seven days, the month, and the year as well as the annual Feasts. Each reflects a new beginning and opportunity.

In this season, we seek to grasp a fuller understanding of the meaning of the cross and the ultimate price Jesus Christ made on our behalf. Our minds cannot comprehend the cost. In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus said “ Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, be done.” He willingly drank of the cup, facing and carrying the sin of all of humanity and bearing it on the cross. On the third day, He victoriously broke the power of sin over our lives and the estrangement from the God of heaven. He has restored us to right relationship with the Father that had been lost in the Garden of Eden.

Within this context, the quote above captured my heart. Christ made a way for us to enter into a new season. Unlike spring, it is a time of renewal and new growth. We must seize what He has prepared for us. The ground has been broken and we have opportunity to enter into this space of renewed fellowship with Him and His work within us.

May each one of us embrace the spring season - the finished work of the cross as it applies to each and every area of our life.

Responding in Times of Crisis

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 11:59:01 GMT

"My brothers and sisters, what good is it if people say they have faith but do nothing to show it? Claiming to have faith can’t save anyone, can it? Imagine a brother or sister who is naked and never has enough food to eat. What if one of you said, 'Go in peace! Stay warm! Have a nice meal!?' What good is it if you don't actually give them what their body needs? In the same way, faith is dead when it doesn’t result in faithful activity." ~ James 2:14-17

We live in a moment in time where we are seeing upheaval and devastation taking place in many nations. As we watch events unfold in Ukraine, our hearts and emotions are stirred. We read newsfeeds, social media reports and mainstream media which captures eyewitness reports and images.

Various voices arise commenting on the advent of the beginning of WWIII and others heralding the return of Christ being imminent while others say ‘not yet’. Who does one listen to?

I have had the privilege of hearing first hand reports during on-line prayer gatherings from those within Ukraine. Each of them shared how they have been reaching out to fellow citizens, assisting in the distribution of food and gathering much needed resources from local citizens and, sometimes, even from bordering nations. Caravans of provisions are brought to cities hardest hit and rides offered out of the intense battlefronts to cities and communities on the other side of the country. Churches are open to house refugees, apartments sought and filled and homes of believers being opened in communities to offer any space available. Day by day there is a strong sense of being asked by the Lord to stay in the region. “Is now the time to leave with the family for safer destinations?” Yet, many have sensed to stay to help their fellowman.

Together, there is a knitting of hearts as these precious saints lift up their voices to pray in their native language, praying for God’s intervention and protection of people on all sides. The earnestness of their prayers strikes a chord within us.

Reports are shared by other believers, describing situations where God has intervened, prompting them to move to a new location just at the right time. There have been other occasions where they have sensed the protection of the Lord in dangerous situations where they have been protected as well as the provision of food, resources and assistance when exactly needed.

Many ministries, charities and organizations have mobilized themselves to respond in a variety of ways. Our hearts and prayers go with them to help those displaced, traumatized, wounded and grieving during this political struggle.

James encourages us in the above verses, to not only bless people with our words and prayers, but to tangibly demonstrate our faith by giving and providing for those in need. In this moment in time, we have an opportunity to express our faith through our ability to give materially to help those who are under intense suffering and trauma.

What will be the manifestation of your faith in these difficult circumstances?

*Discover those ministries and charities engaged in assisting Ukraine at https://www.cncf.ca/

Making Restitution...

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 14:12:36 GMT

“Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.”” ~ Luke 19:8

When I was recently discussing this story with some guys, we looked closely at what transpired in this brief but profound interchange between Jesus and Zacchaeus. I learned there are some good take aways from this account worth exploring and unpacking especially the idea of restitution.

Zacchaeus hears Jesus is travelling through Jericho. Being of short stature and in his eagerness, he runs ahead and positions himself up in a tree to see Him. Upon arriving at the tree, Jesus looks up and calls him by name – “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.”

This statement seems innocent enough but Zacchaeus did not have a great reputation. Being a chief tax collector meant that he was a social and religious outcast because he was seen as having sided with the Roman occupational government. As a result, he would have experienced a fair amount of rejection in his life. Yet, Jesus calls him out by name – Zacchaeus - meaning ‘pure and innocent’. By speaking his name, it was if he was reminding Zacchaeus of his name sake – despite what people might have thought of him, Jesus was speaking to his identity and destiny.

We do not hear if there were any further words exchanged, but by the simple words Jesus spoke to him, we hear Zacchaeus’ profound response as noted in the verse above. He was willing to give half of what he had to the poor and make restitution to anyone where he had taken something by false accusation.

In this account, we do not hear Zacchaeus repent for his sins but one wonders if the conviction he suddenly felt in looking face to face with Jesus produced an immediate shift in his life. He was willing to come ‘clean’ and remove any hindrances that might impede his new relationship with Jesus.

Jesus responds with a knowingness to Zacchaeus’ heart change by declaring to him and the masses around him “ Today salvation has come to this house …”. The word salvation relates to having done a 180-degree shift in his thinking and heart – to seek to go in the opposite direction. What a testimony before the people of his new personhood and Jesus’ words immediately breaking the power of shame, condemnation and rejection over his life and positioning him differently in society.

This account begs the question about the relevancy of restitution today. In this account, it was part of the law under which Jewish community operated. But what does that mean for us now? Matthew 3:8 says “ Therefore produce fruit that proves your repentance .” I believe in some cases this means to make restitution.

Perhaps we need to ask the Lord today if, in some fashion or another, is there not a place for making restitution in our lives?

Renewed Consecration

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 16:49:10 GMT

“… ‘Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure. Do not come near it, that you may know the way by which you must go, for you have not passed this way before.’ And Joshua said to the people, sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” ~ Joshua 3:4-5

I am not sure if you have ever made a practice of the beginning the new year with consecrating everything you have back to the Lord, but I know I had never fully considered this possibility – particularly as they related to money and possessions - until about seven years ago when reading a book by Howard Dayton, “ Your Money Counts ”.

After being asked recently to take the lead in a prayer of consecration for a ministry, I decided to do a word study of the word ‘consecrate’.

The word ‘consecrate’ has various meanings, some of which include “to hold with an open hand, to rub with oil, to set apart for sacred purposes, to devote, to pronounce as clean, to prepare, to sanctify, to purify or to leave behind”. The depth of each of these meanings have significance as I reflected upon them.

I felt on a personal level, as we took some time to pray at the beginning of this new year, that my wife and I were to consecrate or sanctify ourselves unto Him and His greater purposes. This included releasing back to Him our calling, relationships, possessions, finances and investments back to the Lord. I sensed that the significance of doing this was far greater than I could appreciate at this moment in time.

As Oswald Chambers once said, “Consecration is the act of continually separating myself from everything except that which God has appointed me do. It is not a one-time experience but an ongoing process. Am I continually separating myself and looking to God every day of my life?”

This act of consecration is all about referencing the Lord with every decision and plan I make. He sees the greater picture and what He is facilitating in this season of my life – our lives -individually and corporately. Do I trust Him with every aspect? Enough to release it all back to Him so that I keep my focus on Him and not on those things that may not be overly relevant in the days ahead?

I sense how important it is to hold everything with an open hand, to set all things apart to Him, to allow Him to do as He pleases – in every area of my life. Where I am still holding on in fear, to allow the oil of His presence to seep into those areas of my heart and bring release.

There is a place of peace knowing He is more than able to look after every aspect of my life.

Have you consecrated yourself and all that you have back to Him this new year?

God Chooses the Insignificant

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 20:59:09 GMT

I find myself receiving numerous emails of late with Christmas greetings and seasonal thoughts. Each of them has different emphases. Each are equally important and convey aspects touching on the Advent season. Some are quick reads while others are lengthier and deeper in thought.

I have been pondering what I would write in my blog this month, desiring to write about some theme or aspect that stirs fresh in my heart in relation to this Christmas season. Nothing particular had come to mind but then a short video with a Christmas greeting shared by a friend stirred my heart.

Micah 5:2 says, “But you, Bethlehem, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me, the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.”

God chose little insignificant Bethlehem as the birth place of the Messiah, the Promised Saviour of the world. The Child who would carry ‘the government upon His shoulder, and be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end.” (Is. 9:6-7)

Mary and Joseph, a seemingly insignificant couple, arrive in an unusual location to give birth to this One foretold in Micah hundreds of years earlier. A simple and unsophisticated stable and manger became the resting place of this prophesied One. God incarnate came to earth as a little baby, born in a manger in 'little' Bethlehem.

Augustine wrote, “He was created by a mother whom He created. He was carried by hands that He formed. He cried in the manger in wordless infancy, He the Word, without whom all human eloquence is mute.”

The shepherds, seen as second-class citizens, are visited by a heavenly host, serenading them from the heavens, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” They brought good tidings of great joy and the announcement of a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger – a ‘Saviour, who is Christ the Lord’. God handpicked unpretentious shepherds to hear this joyous announcement the whole world awaited.

God often chooses the insignificant and the unassuming to be instruments of His love and compassion. He delights in making use of the humble of heart for His greater purposes and glory.

Each one of us are those who He equally chooses to touch the lives of others, those in our spheres of influence whether our spouses, children and family, our workplaces and our communities. We, too, insignificant as we may feel, are chosen to be used by the God of the universe to be channels of His love and mercy.

May the God of all Creation fill you with all hope, peace, joy and love this Advent season. May you be the light of His presence to those around you, that they too may come and behold the Babe, the Saviour of the World.

A Kingdom Mindset

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 19:51:57 GMT

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

Jesus spent much of His time teaching His disciples and the masses about the Kingdom. Jesus fully understood the difference between the observable and tangible realities of day to day living familiar to those around Him. He, however, wanted them to begin to grasp another realm – the realm of the Kingdom of God. Jesus sought to familiarize them with a different perspective and ultimately shape in a new way the mindset of Kingdom living.

Jesus sought to bring understanding and insights about the Kingdom, that His followers would discern the significance of each realm. The natural was finite but eternity was far greater of a reality and more impacting on their lives if they could grasp the concept.

Could His disciples and followers see Him as a king, not on the earth to overthrow the Roman occupation as they hoped, but to introduce another kingdom, one equally challenging and filled with battles of a spiritual nature? A battle that contended for their very hearts and souls. Jesus wanted the masses to see Him as the true King of an unseen realm into which they had been invited. His heart was to give them a glimpse of a kingdom where He was King, and although filled with spiritual battles that involved principalities and powers (Eph. 3:10), he had disarmed these by His gift and sacrifice.

Our money and possessions are a part of the battle ground. They were never intended to give us security, comfort or something in which to put our trust. In fact, they are tools in the King’s hands to test our hearts and allegiance and to advance the kingdom. Will we serve Him by placing Him on the throne of our hearts or will we serve another – unrighteous mammon, allowing it to be seated upon the throne of our heart? One invites and blesses while the other demands and dictates.

We read in 1 Timothy 6:17-19 “ Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they may be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.”

The Lord makes it clear that finances are not the issue, rather, the problem is what value and importance we place on them. We are to place more focus on the good works we can accomplish through the use of our finances, recognizing that the fruits of our good works are of future importance and value.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:33 still confronts us today. We are challenged to pursue the kingdom of God. Whom we serve and what we draw comfort from reflects who is King in our lives and mindset.

How is your kingdom mindset?

Whom is Discipling You?

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 16:26:42 GMT

“And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which is lost.” ~ Luke 19: 9-10

Recently, I was having a discussion with a mentoring group about the character of Zacchaeus. He is described as a rich, chief tax collector, viewed by the locals as a social and religious outcast because he was viewed to have colluded with the Roman occupational government.

Zacchaeus had a growing hunger in him, having heard about a man named Jesus who was visiting the area. He did not let himself be held back due to his short stature, but ran ahead of Jesus and climbed a sycamore tree to position himself to see Jesus.

Jesus acknowledges Zacchaeus by looking up into the tree and invites himself into Zacchaeus’ home and life. In response, Zacchaeus makes an incredible pronouncement “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.”

I cannot imagine what the people must have thought as they heard this statement by Zacchaeus. He was well known for his reputation as a thief of their finances. Yet, an encounter with Jesus results in an immediate heart change – a 180 degree turnaround.

Jesus makes a pronouncement in response to Zacchaeus’ testimony and makes clear to the people, salvation has come to Zacchaeus. He is a changed man as captured in his declaration to people around him and Jesus. This word ‘salvation’ here means a heart change, deliverance, rescue and soundness that has come into his life. In a moment, Zacchaeus had become a disciple of Jesus.

Zacchaeus had heard about Jesus. He wanted to hear more. In the process, an encounter with Jesus changes his whole life and heart. He goes beyond the laws of just restitution – so deep is his heart change.

We live in a day and culture where we are surrounded by countless voices vying for our attention through social media, newsfeeds, and various apps and platforms. Some are louder than others.

The question we need to ask ourselves is how much of these voices are getting into our head? How much of what they say is settling into our hearts?

More significantly, do we recognize these voices are shaping our thinking, beliefs and habits. Without realizing it, these voices have begun to disciple us. I suspect many of us unwittingly do not recognize their influence and a result do not guard our thoughts and hearts.

Perhaps we need a fresh revelation of our need for Jesus’ deliverance that would impact our financial discipleship journey, just as it did for Zacchaeus. We may need to be rescued from our thinking and destructive habits. We may need to make a pronouncement of our change of heart.

Why not ask the Lord what He would say about your financial discipleship journey?

Setting Your House in Order

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 17:24:05 GMT

“In those days King Hezekiah became sick and was at the point of death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, came to him and said to him, “Thus says the Lord, “Set your house in order, for you shall die; you shall not recover.” ~ Isaiah 38:1

The prophet Isaiah makes a visit to King Hezekiah and informs him that he is about to die and to get his house in order. Most of us never get this particular advance notice – certainly not from a prophet in your bedroom.

Typically, as people move into the later seasons of their lives, they begin to give serious thought to having their affairs in order. However, as our ministry has recently discovered, the onset of the pandemic has led many people who have avoided making plans or setting their house in order to give their full attention to their wills.

Setting your house in order requires some close examination at multiple levels. A good starting place is ‘doing business’ with God. Asking Him if there is any aught in your heart towards Him or others should lead the way. Dealing with areas of unforgiveness towards the Lord and towards others are key areas leading to restoration of relationships both vertically and horizontally. Perhaps the honouring of those who have impacted your life – your spouse, children and perhaps other significant people in your life might be another consideration.

Another aspect of setting our house in order is looking after your financial affairs. This area involves making certain banks accounts, insurance policies, investments and estate plans and wills are current and in order.

A quick survey of friends reveals that there are still many who have not given their attention and energy towards having their affairs in order for a variety of reasons. For some, there is no sense of immediate urgency and for others it is a lifestyle of avoidance or procrastination.

King Hezekiah was directed by the prophet Isaiah to put his house in order as death was imminent. He would have given instructions to those having oversight of his affairs to put everything into place. He would have sought to have everything in place for his family and loved ones.

One critical aspect sometimes overlooked is the planning necessary beyond your departure. A loved one left behind is often in a state of grief, feeling overwhelmed with the simple day to day activities let alone dealing with financial affairs they have never managed in the past.

Making plans for the surviving loved one to cope well is essential. Ensure that they are equipped and prepared to manage bank accounts, credit cards, investments and insurance policies. One key issue is making certain the loved one has their own credit rating – a simple but key reality following the death of a spouse.

Setting your house in order is an important process, regardless of age or circumstances.

Are there things you need to attend to in this season of your life?

Wise Building...

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 11:57:14 GMT

“Therefore, whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock…”. Matthew 7:25

Jesus taught parables, using everyday occurrences that the masses could relate to, to teach profound truths. Everyday live examples made sense to the people but the profoundness of the words often needed to be pondered and explored to obtain their fuller meaning.

The verse above highlights two aspects central to Jesus’ teaching – ‘hearing’ and ‘doing’. ‘Hearing’ was more than simply hearing words with their ears. Each individual needed to hear with not only their natural understanding and senses, but to hear with their spirits, the place where the Spirit of the Lord gives revelation. Listening required an active posture of paying attention to what was spoken, meditating or digesting what each word meant and extracting the significance or depth of meaning behind the words.

The second aspect – ‘doing’ followed after the hearing aspect. ‘Doing’ required an intentionality, a decision, a choice of the will, to activate oneself, to move forward, to act upon and to implement with a clear sense of obedience. The absence of any activity is also a form of doing – a passive form, but yet a choice of the heart.

In Matthew 7: 24-27, Jesus describes an individual who listens and follows through on what He taught as being a ‘wise’ person. Such an individual was one who discerned the truth behind Jesus’ words and the intention of His heart, grasping the deeper meaning and implications and wrestling through the hard questions and decisions required. Once understanding these aspects, the person made a choice to do something, to engage in a process that was strategic and clear, and to persevere to see a goal achieved.

The reality of rain, wind and floods was understood by the people listening to Jesus’s words. This natural lifecycle was familiar to them - the spring and winter rains, the thawing of the snow on the mountain tops and the overflowing of the Jordan River in its due season.

Like the elements of weather, our Christian walk is filled with challenges and testings. Refinement of our character is part of our sanctification process, dying to self and growing into the image of Jesus Christ. We can yield to the process and His purposes or resist His work in our lives.

Wisdom is linked to hearing and doing. We choose how we position ourselves to grow in wisdom in all our financial dealings.

Ultimately, will we be found to be wise in the eyes of the Lord or like a foolish person given to enticements and distractions that keep us from building solid foundations in our lives as it relates to our money and possessions?

What step can you take today to begin building a solid foundation?

Our Financial Achille's Heel

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 13:02:11 GMT

“Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying “And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the value of Him who was priced, whom they of the children of Israel priced, and gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord directed me.” Matthew 27: 9 – 10

The other day, I was reflecting on how we sometimes can hear the Lord speaking to us through His Word and Spirit and yet the truth finds no resting place in our thinking or heart. It is as if Teflon has coated our ears and eyes, making us unable to hear and see as the Lord would want us to do so.

As I thought further about this, I was reminded of Judas. He was a disciple of the Jesus, walking with Him for the entirety of His ministry on earth. Part of Jesus’ inner circle of twelve, he was chosen by Jesus to follow Him and Judas did so.

Judas heard Jesus’ teaching, watched His interactions with the masses, and saw the miracles and the signs and wonders that became commonplace in the lives of the disciples. He travelled the dusty roads of the countryside with his fellow disciples, breaking bread with them and enjoying the stories and laughter. He heard fresh teaching, received instruction selected for only a few and had so many opportunities to receive all that Jesus wanted to impart to him.

Judas held one very specific role within the ranks of the disciples – he was the keeper of the money bag and was known to help himself to its contents. (John 12:6). Despite this weakness, Jesus chose him as one of His disciples. This vulnerability became his Achille’s heel - an area that eventually led him to betraying Jesus. He never truly heard the fullness of what Jesus taught – never letting it settle into his heart and bring healing.

He received thirty pieces of silver for betraying Jesus. Thirty pieces of silver was the price for a slave. Is this how much value Judas placed on Jesus’ life and his relationship with Him - the One with whom he had walked for three years and saw and learned so much?

How could one betray a friend like Jesus for thirty silver coins? The draw of money was Judas’ Achille’s heel, the unhealed area of his heart that he just could not let go of. In a moment of time, he sold his soul for some coins. His relationship with money got the best of him.

Like Judas, we can be on the inside (the inner circle) but yet on the outside (never yielding our hearts) in our relationship with the Lord. Our words can be token lip service, but our sincerity of heart falls short. Our hearts and minds can deceive us, just as it did for Judas.

Jesus invites us as He did with Judas, to come with an open heart and hands, surrendering all to Him – every area of the heart, including our finances, addressing our Achille’s heel.

Provision Follows Obedience

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 16:35:42 GMT

“ Go sell the oil and pay your debt: and you and your sons live on the rest.” ~ 2 Kings 2:7

The Bible has many examples of God’s provision at times when there was a significant need. He provided daily manna and quail for the Israelites, fed the multitudes with bread and fishes, a coin to pay taxes and daily provision for the disciples’ journey with Jesus.

We read of an account in 2 Kings 2 where a widow who is in debt and has no food for her sons and herself. She seeks out Elisha, explains the situation and asks what she should do. Elisha asks what resources are available to her, and provides unusual and unique directions which made no sense to the natural mind. However, she does as directed and completes what Elisha directs her to do to the end.

In this account, the widow takes a seemingly insignificant resource – a jar of oil. One would wonder what use that might be. However, from God’s vantage point, it is a resource in His hands. Elisha instructs her to go to the neighbours and asks for their empty jars. I am sure they must have been scratching their heads as to why she would want the jars as more than likely it was not harvest time when one might be taking olives and making oil – so why the need now? Yet, she is obedient and follows through on Elisha’s directions to her.

She takes these empty jars and brings them into her home, closing the door with only her sons and herself present. She closed out ‘prying eyes’, the ‘naysayers’ and those who might have mocked what she was doing. The widow removed unnecessary voices into her situation.

We watch as she fills every jar available until they are all full. She seeks out Elisha one more time and he directs her to sell the oil and pay off her debts and live off the remaining proceeds.

The widow sought godly counsel not once but twice, removed distractions and ‘other voices’ and followed through with faith and obedience to see her provision released.

When was the last time you sought the Lord for His leading for your financial situation? Did you seek wise, godly counsel from those knowledgeable in this area? Were you obedient to discipline yourself and follow through in what was proposed?

The widow was asked to do something fairly unusual even when she did not understand the implications of her actions. Yet, she was obedient to heed the voice of Elisha’s insightful counsel.

May we recognize our need for help in the midst of our financial troubles, giving no place in our hearts to pride and shame that would hold us back. May we present our need to Him and seek godly counsel that we obediently follow through. As we do so, may we see God’s ability to provide in unusual ways and release His provision for all our needs.

How Financially Prepared are You?

Tue, 11 May 2021 12:48:19 GMT

“ Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.” ~ Proverbs 27:1

There are seasons in my life when I have dreams on a regular basis. Sometimes I know they are insignificant and other times I know I need to make note. Over a year ago I did have a dream that has remained with me until this day.

In part of the dream I was with a group of people beginning to load a raft. A storm was raging around us with heavy rains and high winds. I knew we were headed downstream and needed to be prepared for what was ahead. I found some large plastic containers, similar to large suitcases, and we began to fill them with medical supplies, food and other items critical to our survival and that of others. We tied them tightly around the edge of the raft and to one another for extra security. As we undertook these tasks, the wind had increased in strength and the waves had begun splashing over the edge of the raft. I then woke up shortly thereafter.

The dream released a sense of urgency within me that we need to be prepared for what lies ahead. Sometime later I found myself wondering about the meaning of the dream as the pandemic hit and whether this was in part the outworking of the dream. My further musings made me ponder how prepared were we actually headed into the pandemic and how are we doing financially over a year later.

The verse above reminds us never to presume on tomorrow as we never know what tomorrow might bring. If someone had told me two years ago we would be in a pandemic, I would have never believed it. Yet, here we find ourselves fourteen months into a global crisis, and we are not sure when it will end.

So, how prepared were you? Many of us heard over the years about the need to get out of debt but had never really actually taken note of it and changed our habits and lifestyle.

Thankfully, my wife and I had the opportunity to learn a few years ago how important it really is to be prepared for the unexpected. Even now, we continue to learn and apply important principles in our financial discipleship journey. Living within our means, sorting out what truly are our needs from wants, decluttering our home of extra ‘stuff’, getting and staying out of debt, and ensuring we have extra funds set aside for emergencies that could be short-term, one-time events or situations lasting much longer.

I am not here to say things are going to get worse, but I do want to challenge each of you to give serious consideration to the things you have heard for some time, but have never applied to your habits and lifestyle in the area of your finances. Time is short and planning is long.

Carpe diem!

Contentment in His Grace

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 19:08:46 GMT

Recently, I finished the book After the Faith Decision by Lorne Jackson. As one that has had years of experience in running several finance businesses, Lorne raised an important question "How much is enough?"

Often, we think about our possessions in relation to accumulation, assuming a good amount of wealth is a necessary part of our achieving of happiness. Yet, as Christians we are taught to tithe from our income and devote it to God. But, one may ask themselves, how much does God need from us? Is it ten percent of our total income? In reality the answer is ‘no’ as God is sufficient on His own. As one that created the world, God lacks nothing in material wealth and what we might have accumulated on earth.

Looking at the tithe from a different angle, we might ask ‘ How much do I need ?’

I believe our answers will be different for every person as we have unique purposes and ways of living this life. Our answer, at its core, is learning to be content with what we have. 1 Timothy 6 says:

" But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness."

God called us to be content - to be grateful for what He has given us. If we would stop for a minute to think about what we have, we would discover how much we have been blessed.

A contented person is gracious and sharing because he knows he has everything he needs. He feels blessed and is willing to pass along this blessing to others. A contented person models Godly stewardship. A contented person has his answer to " How much is enough? ". John the Baptist knew "enough" meant a stick, one outfit, a pair of sandals, and a joyful heart as he proclaimed the coming of Jesus.

And now, my friend, what is enough for you?

Charles Spurgeon said, "It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness." Knowing what is enough comes from inside of us as it is a personal decision, not one with a fixed standard. When we walk the journey with God, even though "enough" may change depending at which life stage we are in, we should always put our attitude right - seeking to serve God and faithfully steward all that has been entrusted to us.

* Our guest blogger is David Kong, an intern with our team as part of Trinity Western University’s Laurentian Leadership Centre program.

Reflections on 70+ Years of Tithing

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 15:55:49 GMT

Kathleen and I were 21 years old, newly wed and snugly settled into a one-room apartment above a two-car garage. It was winter and I was attending classes nearby. This was 73 years ago and our hearts were set upon serving the Lord.

Financial support, we knew, would come in pieces from part-time work. World War II had recently ended and money was still scarce and our income marginal.

Little more than a month into our marriage we had a serious talk about money. We agreed to the principle of tithing — the first ten percent of income was for the Lord and his church — but should we wait until income was more plentiful?

Our extremely small earnings appeared to be a good reason to delay, or to reduce the amount to two percent, or even to give only what was left after paying each month’s expenses.

We also knew that until summer our income would especially be scant. Our one hope was that I would continue to sing or speak in churches nearby, in return for an offering.

All of this was set alongside our Christian awareness of God’s great generosity: “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all — how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)

We knew that the tithe belongs to the Lord, as stated in our Christian scriptures (Malachi 3:8-10). The f irst ten percent should be given to the Lord for Christian ministries. Christian mothers had taught us this in childhood.

We had seen early that tithing enriches the deep partnership of marriage. How could we be “together” in the fullest sense if we did not act on common convictions about the management of resources entrusted to us?

Looking back now, at ages 94 and 95, we recall three periods of seriously limited resources during our first ten years of marriage. But we persevered in tithing and recall now how God’s faithfulness was there for us in such times.

Here’s what we’ve learned in our 73 years together: the practice of tithing begins as a discipline but quickly becomes a joy. We both agree that this joy has only grown across the years as we’ve increased our giving to the Lord’s work.

We also discovered that after giving away the first ten percent, as a tithe, the remaining ninety percent seems to provide as much support as the original hundred percent did.

We think this is because tithing made us more careful with the remainder. And God has blessed us even with modest resources.

As well, tithing tended to deepen our sense of financial responsibility to the Lord for his many gifts. I recall the story of a Christian railroad engineer, back in the days of steam locomotives, who left the pay car each month and took a tithe of his earnings directly to his church.

Asked why he was so urgent, he responded, “My job has its dangers; I don’t want to die with the Lord’s money in my pocket.” That is scrupulous faith!

In a sense, the commitment to tithe is like the ratchet on a hoist. The ratchet doesn’t determine any upper limit, but it keeps what is being lifted from dropping back to earth.

During my late teens I often used hitchhiking as a means of inexpensive long distance travel. Drivers who gave me a lift provided the vehicle, paid for the insurance, filled the fuel tank, and underwrote repairs. I rode for free. Today, Kathleen and I would feel like hitchhikers to have accepted the blessings of the church and its ministries while leaving others to provide the funds needed.

Looking back across 73 years we know that we are the richer for having started the practice of tithing together at the outset of a married life launched on meager resources.

We agree with the Apostle Paul, who wrote, “You will always be rich enough to be generous” (2 Corinthians 9:11a NEB).

* Our guest blogger this month is Bishop Emeritus Donald N. Bastian, former pastor and Bishop with the Free Methodist Church.

What of Yours is Being Shaken Free?

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 13:56:26 GMT

“ The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,” declares the Lord of hosts.” Haggai 1:8

Earlier this week I was reading from the book of Haggai and ran across a very interesting section in Chapter One. It reads as follows – “For thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Once more I will shake heaven and earth, the sea and dry land; and I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this temple with glory,’ says the Lord of hosts. ‘The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,’ says the Lord of hosts. ‘The glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former,’ says the Lord of hosts. “And in this place, I will give peace,’ says the Lord of hosts.” (verses 6 -9)

As I read this passage, I was struck by the realization that we are actually living in a time of shaking. Global in nature, the pandemic has touched into every corner of the earth. God is shaking the nations to bring them to Himself. The prophet Haggai also speaks about God filling His temple with His glory. This would have been in reference to Zerubbabel’s rebuilding of the temple.

What grabbed my attention in this passage, was the verse about the gold and silver. Why did the prophet insert this statement? What was the Lord bringing to light?

I discovered in the ESV there are a few additional words “…so that the treasures of all nations shall come in...” The implication is that the wealth of the nations belongs to the Lord and will be used for His purposes, specifically, the re-building of the temple.

As I pondered the prophet’s words, they re-affirmed my sense from the Scriptures that the Lord owns all that we hold dear to our hearts – our money and possessions.

Having lived in an earthquake zone for a year and having experienced various earthquakes of varying strength, I discovered what happens when one experiences a ‘shaking’ as the prophet speaks of here. You find yourself holding on to what is familiar and provides security.

When everything around us is being shaken, we want to grasp onto things that are of importance to us, things we value and appreciate - even things that we put our trust in like our wealth.

Shakings can have varying faces and can be of political, economic, spiritual, or of emotional nature. The implications can be far reaching into our surrounding and internally.

In Haggai, the Lord reminds us so clearly the wealth we may so dearly hold onto actually belongs to Him. When the shaking hits, our grasp of those things may be loosened despite our attempts to hold on tightly. Our hearts are tested. Will we yield and release, or will we struggle to maintain our grip? Do we see the ‘gold and silver’ as ours, or do we acknowledge they belong to Him?

What might the Lord be shaking free in your life this season?

The Giving Jar

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 13:29:28 GMT

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)

As a child, I received a weekly allowance. Before I could decide which Beanie Baby to buy, I was instructed to place one dollar in my savings jar, and one dollar in my giving jar.

I admit, I deposited those coins with reluctance at first. Two fewer dollars meant I would have to wait until next week to get Peanut the Elephant. But as the loonies accumulated, it excited me to think of all the ways I could make a difference in the world with my giving jar.

As I decorated that jar with colourful pompoms and glitter, I imagined buying a goat from one of those Christmas giving catalogues, and strolling the aisles of the local dollar store to pack a shoebox for a child just like me.

While it involved discipline and hardship (for an eight-year old), this practice instilled in me the joy of giving.

Today, I approach giving in much the same way. Rather than thinking that I must give because it is the Biblical, charitable, or ‘right’ thing to do, I set aside a portion of my income for the freedom to give. With these funds, I can dream about all the ways I’d like to shine God’s light in the world.

I don’t know about you, but I want to do immeasurably more in this life than I have the ability to do. I long to see families able to provide for themselves; to see students’ hearts transformed by the gospel; to see women freed from abusive situations; and to see the hungry fed with dignity.

When I support ministries that do the things I wish I could do, I feel that I am there with them. I get to be in Ethiopia, planting gardens alongside the local community members; having coffee and praying with a student in Italy; opening the door for a woman to attend a support group in the city I used to call home; and handing bags of groceries to my very own neighbours.

Second Corinthians 9:7 tells us that God loves a cheerful giver. Many of us hesitate to give because we think of the bills we need to pay and the myriad things we could otherwise buy with that money. What would it look like to instead approach giving the way a child watches the coins accumulating in her sparkly giving jar, with joyful expectation of how God might use them to transform His Kingdom?

*Julia Buckingham is a young professional working in Ottawa. She recently completed her master's degree in Rome, Italy and is passionate about the stewardship of God's good gifts.

Immanuel - God with Us!

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 18:56:45 GMT

“’Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which is translated, “God with us.’” Matthew 1:23

The past couple years I have been enjoying being more intentional in taking time to be reflective during the Advent season, seeking to explore its meaning and significance in my life. A book, written by a dear friend called “ The Advent Overture”, has been my primary source of reflection and pondering. This book is a rich compilation of meditations and poems that has been profoundly insightful and apprehending – one I would highly recommend.

I cannot help but find myself drawing comparisons between the setting of the Advent narrative and our current circumstances today.

The Christmas story follows a period of 400 years of silence with no prophetic voices speaking to the nation of Israel. The nation was under Roman occupation and oppression, creating a sense of life being squeezed out from them. Collectively and individually, there existed a sense of being disconnected from a God who answered prayer and an unknown future. A hopelessness had settled into the soul of the people.

Not unlike those times many years ago, there is a pervasive sense of isolation from family and loved ones. For many, relating to a church community only happens online. Even for those who meet in person, the experience is so much different. Fear and despair continue to overwhelm the emotions of many people. Worry and anxiety over financial pressures, uncertainty about employment, potential failure of businesses that are struggling and the overall state of the economy has become like a heavy blanket.

However, this pandemic has provided an even greater opportunity to pause and reflect upon the truth of the Christmas story. A profound truth and holy reality are told to Joseph in a dream. His betrothed is to have a child, conceived of the Holy Spirit, one who is named Jesus, a Saviour for His people. Jesus is a fulfilment of a prophetic word revealed so long ago to the prophet Isaiah in chapter 7 verse 14 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.”

A nation and people feeling forgotten and alone are suddenly in the spotlight of God’s redemptive purposes and plans. Heaven’s hosts are filled with choruses of praise and exaltation at the wonder of God’s gift to mankind. Jesus is the gift - the one who would identify with their weaknesses, struggles, sense of abandonment and aloneness. An eternal promise is realized, the people are never to be abandoned again.

Just as then, it is today, when reflecting on Jesus no longer is there the sense of distance and disconnection from the realities each of us are experiencing. There is One who walks alongside us in all our fears, anxieties and despair. Hope is once again restored. We are no longer alone.

May hope, faith and joy stir in our hearts as we are reminded – Immanuel with us!

Jesus - Simply an Add-On?

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 18:24:17 GMT

“If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” – Matthew 19:21

I recently was listening to a podcast where the speaker shared some insights on the rich, young ruler that I had not heard before.

The young, rich ruler came to Jesus because he knew he had one missing element in his life – eternal life. He had everything else – the wealth, prestige, fine clothes, large home, lots of land and many employees. He thought the process was simply a matter of adding Jesus to his life.

Realizing he was missing something, the young, rich ruler came to Jesus to add the one thing he realized he was lacking. He reflected on his life and knew he had been diligent to keep all the laws as Jesus challenged him, but he wanted to know what did he have to do to obtain eternal life? What new change would it require? Or what formula need to be implemented?

The account tells us that the young man walked away sad after hearing Jesus’ directions to him. His possessions had shaped his worldview, identity and relationships with others.

Approaching the obtaining of eternal life as some sort of business transaction, he had wanted to make sure he added that one last thing to his life that would give him everything he thought he needed. If he could add “Jesus” to his life, he could obtain the blessings of the Lord on his health and business.

I wonder how many people approach their relationship with Jesus in this same manner. For some, the addition is similar to added insurance or a security blanket. The thought would never cross their mind that following Jesus would cost everything.

Peter was part of a fishing business with his two brothers, James and John. When Jesus extended an invitation to him, Peter left the partnership and business behind. Peter never looked back and was sold out for Jesus and gave his all.

What a contrast between the two men. The young rich ruler had the same invitation as Peter. Jesus invited the ruler to follow Him after selling what he had and giving the wealth to the poor. This choice required something much deeper than the ruler was prepared to offer and surrender. Jesus’ directions tested the true motives of his heart.

Wealth can create barriers in our relationship with Jesus. We can be a “Sunday” follower and never release our lives and our all to Him. Many people followed Jesus in His day but never embraced following Him whole heartedly.

May our hearts be aware of our motives in following Jesus and those things that create barriers like wealth and prestige. May they not hold us back from pursuing Him whole heartedly with pure motives. May we surrender all and keep Him, Jesus, the sole focus of our lives.

Ghosts in the Nursery

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 18:06:56 GMT

“ Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” ~ Matthew 7: 24

Our money story shapes us in untold ways, affecting how we build our financial house not only today and tomorrow but for the future. I recall reading an article some 35 years ago entitled “Ghosts in the Nursery”, describing how our childhood experiences beginning at birth and in our early formative years, shape the life choices we make. This article has never left me.

Over the years, I have recognized how even my money choices have been impacted by those ‘ghosts in the nursery’.

So, what do I mean by money story?

Our money story is made of our earliest memories of money. This relates to how we save, give, spend and invest. This may seem simple enough but in actuality our earliest memories often have an emotion attached to it.

Think about your earliest memory of money? Can you identify any particular emotion connected with it?

Those close to us, usually our parents, modelled all aspects of finances and helped to shape our worldview of finances. If there was plenty or a lack, we watched how it was spent, saved, given away or invested. For many, money was a source of conflict. Financial discussions were heated and filled the home with tension.

We will have worked an estimated 90,000 hours over the course of our lifetime. Yet, when we stop to think about it, how much time was spent teaching us how to manage our money by our parents or significant others?

If you combine your memories with your own experiences, good, bad or indifferent, how have they impacted your money management? Shame and condemnation are not unusual emotions related to our past money management. You may need to release these memories to the Lord and ask Him to heal them in order for you to move on and change your decision-making processes.

Personally, I have discovered that there is merit in reflecting upon one’s own money story. Sharing those early memories, key past financial decisions and articulating one’s values and perspectives about money are incredibly helpful. Sometimes I journal, sometimes I pray and sometimes I just need to talk about it.

I realized that due to my parent’s frugal nature while growing up, I decided as an adult to enjoy life, regardless of the debt I incurred. As you can imagine this led to significant habits that I had to break.

I also know the importance of taking the time to share with your spouse in an atmosphere prepared by prayer, a lack of judgement and a willingness to hear each other’s journeys with money. These are all important steps in working together and allows you to walk out your own money story and build your own financial house together.

How are you doing with your ‘ghosts in the nursery’?

In Time of Uncertainty

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 18:28:16 GMT

“I will lift up my eyes to the hills from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1-2

I find myself pondering these days what our future might be. The pandemic continues to make itself known, reports highlight numbers of cases and nations struggle to gain control while considering another lockdown.

Listening to the varied opinions and opposing views can be overwhelming emotionally, psychologically and absolutely confusing. One senses that long gone are the days when people believed and trusted in their leaders and professional experts.

Voices from some Christian circles believe religious freedoms are being infringed upon and dissenting voices silenced. For some there is a strong longing to return to full worship services, a gathering to hear the Word and worship once again together in one place.

So, how do I keep perspective in these days?

I am reminded in my quiet times with the Lord that I need to keep my eyes fastened on Him. He is my sole source of strength, comfort and encouragement, my sole source of provision, security and peace.

Paul’s words to the New Testament church were written in a time of persecution. They were oppressive days politically yet the church prospered and grew. Opposition caused the early Church to grow in maturity, to gather together in homes to hear the Word, pray and fellowship together, see the Gospel spread and look to the day of Christ’s return.

We are living in similar days around the globe. Once again, the Gospel is going forth in unique ways and impacting people’s lives with many coming to faith. Over the past few days, I have heard of reports of ministries’ having an on-line presence and witness, people reaching out to them, desperate for a word of hope and encouragement. In some instances, these people are in isolation, either in hospitals or quarantine, and reaching out through various forms of media and being touched by the Lord. Their hearts are so open and hungry for truth. One article entitled “Where is God in the Midst of Tragedy had been read some 60,000 times. (Check out indigitous.org to learn and hear more.)

As I reflect on Paul’s words, I am encouraged that God has a plan for our lives and the Body of Christ. He is still seated on the throne (Ps. 2), watches over the affairs of our lives and is firmly in control. Nothing of our current world affairs is a surprise to Him.

As One who stretched forth the heavens, He brought forth light and darkness and gave mankind the ability to choose their own path. His perspective and plan are so much larger than our limited, finite ability to grasp what is happening to ourselves and those around us in these days.

It is in Him we trust and look towards in days of uncertainty, confusing messages, and increasing violence around the globe. May we find our rest and security in Him these days.

What Roots are Growing in Your Garden

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 23:43:38 GMT

“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.” ~ 1 Timothy 6:10

Over the summer, we had a new deck built in our backyard with a plan to make the rest of the yard into a garden. I realized I had one challenge that would require some effort and skill to see this goal realized. A stump left from a tree cut down the previous year we rooted deeply in the grounds.

As I began turning over the soil to start the garden and worked closer to the stump, I found numerous roots growing out from it. The closer to the stump - the thicker the roots. Slowly I chopped away at the various roots, severing them one by one. After much sweat and effort, I was finally able to lift the remnants of the stump out of the ground.

Paul in the verse above describes the ‘love of money’ as being a root. A root develops when something is planted and begins to grow, becoming numerous in number and increasing in size and strength. Sin is like that in our lives. When we have a desire - as for money, its power and control over our lives and others, this root grows in strength and depth.

Allowing access by the enemy, the root grows and becomes a stronghold in our lives. If we give room to bitterness and unforgiveness, it creates a barrier in our relationship with the Lord. If we become money-focused, we open the door to greed and deception. Often shame and condemnation grow along with this focus, which results in a vicious cycle. Like my root in the garden, they take much effort to uproot.

Jesus knew these roots could severely impact our relationship with Him. Paul, as we read into the above verse, challenges Timothy to be aware of how the love of money can influence us and those around us. He encourages Timothy to watch out for this pattern personally and in those most dear to him.

In fact, Paul warns that this love affair can cause some to walk away from their relationship with the Lord, replacing their trust in God for His care and provision, with the belief money will meet all their needs. This lie from the enemy grows in strength and becomes well rooted into their lives, beliefs and behaviours. The ‘love of money’ leads to greed and incredible sorrow or grief because as it disappoints and affects every area of one’s life.

The challenging act of uprooting the stump from my lawn showed me the veracity in which we need to protect ourselves from any root including the love of money, to begin to shape and form us. The greater entrance into our lives, the greater the stronghold developed. The stronger the stronghold, the more challenging to uproot it from our heart and lives.

Allowing the Holy Spirit to search our hearts and lives will reveal anywhere the love of money might have wittingly or unwittingly taken root. It is never too soon to deal with this root and uproot it from our lives. Ask Him to help you get free.

A Cup of Cold Water - How Much Could That Cost?

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 19:57:09 GMT

“ And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.” ~ Matthew 10: 42

The other night I had a unique dream involving two scenes in which I was ministering to the homeless. I have had many dreams over the years but am pretty certain I have never had a dream like this.

In the first scene, homeless people of all ages filled an empty church sanctuary and myself and another pastor began chatting and moving among those seated throughout the sanctuary. In the next scene, I was seated beside a homeless man resting on a large branch. As I sat next to him, I realized he was thirsty, so taking my nearly empty water bottle, I poured him a full cup. He eagerly drank from his mug and then, realizing I had emptied my water bottle, gently put his mug up to my mouth to drink the final mouthful.

As I awoke, I found myself consumed with compassion for the homeless. I must confess that I often struggle when driving down some streets where I find the homeless panhandling for some gift of change. I struggle with many questions. What if I am contributing to an addiction? Will they spend it on food or something worthwhile?

There are occasions when I do give them some change in their empty paper cups. Other times, I look the other way, feeling uncomfortable and out of my comfort zone. I find myself wondering what the Lord would have me do.

A friend suggested that the dream may be simply to encourage me to respond when seeing a need even if it may cost me something. If so, he felt the Lord would meet any further need I may have as I am obedient to His promptings to give and bless someone.

I am reminded of Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 10 about the blessing received when giving a cup of cold water to others in His name. Jesus instructed the young, rich ruler to give to the poor and lay up treasure in heaven. Paul also encouraged the early church to do likewise.

Am I prepared to give a cup of cold water? Am I prepared to give something to someone in need if it costs me something? Is my heart open to the Lord’s promptings?

Reports indicate that many are concerned the homeless have been forgotten during the pandemic and are at greater risk of coming down with COVID-19 and that there is great risk for many more homeless to arise as this pandemic continues. They are invisible to many.

One thing my wife and I have learned from our financial discipleship journey is the importance of giving a portion of our giving to the poor. We do so, looking for those who are wise stewards when working with these precious people.

Have you considered giving a cup of cold water in His name?

Mammon - Deceptively Enticing

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 12:34:08 GMT

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” ~ Matthew 6:24

Many of us, I suspect, have never given much thought to this particular Scripture and its’ meaning. I had not done so myself until a few years ago. Since then, I have been on a journey of discovery as to this verse’s meaning and impact on my life and those around me.

I sense that even in these days of the pandemic, this ‘drawing force’ is seeking to find a foothold in our lives. Mammon is a little-known influence that creeps up unsuspecting. Like a gnat hovering around our head, we become familiar with it and we give it no attention yet it keeps buzzing and circling overhead, seeking to draw us in.

The word ‘mammon’ is much more than the word ‘money’, but conveys a sense of a ‘force’ or spiritual power. Most of us tend not to think along those lines but when Jesus taught His disciples and warned them about the influence of mammon, He knew it was more than simply money.

Jesus knew there would be a contending for our affections and energies, which is why He frames His comments by calling mammon for what it is – a master. A master can only be called that if it has the ability to influence or affect us. So, in essence, Jesus says we will serve one or the other.

Mammon seeks to occupy the throne of our heart rather than the Lord. Seeking to have its every need and demand to be fulfilled, mammon is a taskmaster.

In these days of quarantine, mammon woos us to place our trust in money and possessions to give us security rather than trusting the Lord and His ability to provide. Fear and worry become our day and night companions shaping our thoughts and emotions. We either continually worry whether we will have enough or we strive to make more money, being self-sufficient and self-reliant, best able to manage our own situation.

Sometimes this ‘master’ causes us to purchase things we do not need to fill an inner need, rather than turning to the Lord. We find ourselves making purchases to make ourselves feel good. We are saving money by travelling much less so why not? We find ourselves making unwise purchasing decisions and at some level, throw caution and wisdom to the wind.

These are days to choose which master we will serve. As we find ourselves wrestling with these issues, the Lord asks us to search our hearts and decide which one we will serve – Him or mammon.

As we come to Jesus, He sets us free from poor financial decisions and fulfills our longings. He is not the taskmaster mammon is, but Jesus invites us to discover how serving Him is so much more freeing and liberating.

What Do You Value - Worry or His Ability?

Fri, 29 May 2020 19:00:08 GMT

“ What is man that you are mindful of him…” Psalm 8:4a

I recently listened to a podcast of a dear friend and mentor in which he addresses the issue of worry. Jesus was quite clear in His teaching that worry is to have no place in our lives.

The more I pondered this truth and let is settle into my heart and spirit, I realized how this ‘little fox’ has crept into my life and thinking more than once – maybe even daily, without my realizing it.

How many of us have experienced sleepless nights worrying about money issues? How many of us without realizing it, have sought to anaesthetize our anxieties through online shopping, binge eating out, or using alcohol or drugs, including sleeping pills, to help settle our thoughts and emotions.

Someplace along the way we have accepted and normalized worry as part of our everyday lives.

Worry at its core causes internal psychological and emotional distress. It has the ability to disrupt our lives. In short, it means we are anxious about our own ability to secure our own needs.

In light of Jesus’ directive in Matthew 6: 25 – 34, we were not created to worry. The birds are not worried, the lilies of the field are not worried nor the grass of the field. In fact, Jesus says we are to pursue His kingdom. We are to strive to see the larger picture of what He is doing amidst challenging times and circumstances.

What do we value the most in these days - our need for money and possessions or His kingdom? This pursuit impacts what we value most in life – either His kingdom or our temporal needs, and shapes what we pray for and where our thoughts rest.

Jesus encourages us to realize that life is more than food and clothes for our bodies. Worry can change nothing, becomes wasted energy and focus, all-consuming and yet is unproductive.

In allowing worry to receive all our attention and energy, we are displacing the Lord on the throne of our hearts. In actuality we are trusting the tangible when He wants to meet our needs.

He does promise to meet the basics like our needs for food and clothing. He provided manna and quail in the desert and looked after the herds. God looked after the Israelites clothes and sandals.

As my friend Alistair Petrie says “worry dethrones God and deifies man”. What a profound statement and startling reality.

I find myself wondering - have I put my trust in worrying about things like money, unemployment, inability to get the things I want in these days and what the future might hold? Or do I see the bigness of God and pursue Him while trusting His ability to provide for me the basics and cover the rest of my needs as He sees fit?

He does know the future and can you and I trust Him with ours?

What Seeps into Your Heart?

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 17:44:55 GMT

“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Saviour and my God.” ~ Psalm 42:5

There is so much information flowing from many sources in these days of the pandemic. I find myself sifting through what is truth, mis-truth and out and out deception. I think we all have this curiosity to learn more and keep ourselves up-to-date but sometimes this focus can become all consuming. One wonders how healthy is this need.

I believe, at this time in particular, we need to consider what words we allow to seep into our hearts, soul and body. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us “Death and life are in the power of the tongue. And those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequence of their words.”

We make daily choices on what we feed our minds and spirits. The words we listen to find a resting place, sometimes without us even fully understanding their impact. Words seep into our very being and souls. Our emotions, thoughts and dreams absorb their essence. We process them at multiple levels whether in our waking hours, dreams or sleepless nights.

Do we allow words of fear and panic to reverberate across the garden of our hearts or the shadows of our thoughts? Words often driven by a fear-based agenda and head-line driven media. Do they calm our fears and anxieties or do they serve to exacerbate our struggles?

Might we make another choice? We can choose to feed on Him – the Living Word. Isaiah 55:2 invites us to consider our choice of diet. “ Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and delight yourself in abundance.”

God’s Word speaks words of life, hope, peace and joy into our souls. In Psalm 42:5, David knew the power of focusing on the truth of knowing an unchanging and all-knowing God and worshiping Him in times of stress, anxiety and fear.

Through David’s worship and meditation on stories he had been told by his father and forefathers – stories of God’s promises, protection and blessings - David positioned himself to focus on the faithfulness of His God. In this place, he was anchored in the peace and rest of the Lord.

Personally, I made a choice, a significant one for me, as my wife will attest, I read my newsfeeds only once a day. I have decided I need to guard my heart and mind, to intentionally spend time in the Word so I am encouraged daily and to find meaning and purpose in what God has called me to do each day.

In these days, whether you are worried about your health, finances, job, family or future, He invites us to feast on His goodness, faithfulness and provision. In that place, peace floods our beings and we are at rest!

In Times of Need Come Close to Him

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 23:32:55 GMT

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” ~ James 4:8 (NKJV)

We live in unprecedented days. Our world as we know it has changed drastically. Life as we have known it has changed significantly, and one wonders what the new ‘normal’ will look like.

Even our vocabulary has changed. The term ‘social distancing’ is heard everywhere you turn. We are reminded in the news, on social media, in every open store or shop we enter, and even in our physical interchanges with neighbours, it has become a new reality.

I am certain many of us are thankful for technology that allows us to talk over FaceTime, Skype, Zoom or Google Hangouts. Technology has allowed us to visibly see one another and connect ‘virtually’. Although I must confess, I miss snuggling my grandchildren.

Fortunately, we do not have to apply social distancing to our relationship with the Lord. If anything, some of us may be afforded a greater opportunity without the distractions of full agendas to engage with Him. Strengthening our relationship does require some intentionality - to shut out the other ‘voices’ vying for our attention.

We are reminded in James 4:8 that God is looking for us to draw aside and seek Him. As children we gather to Him, to discover and experience Him in His Word and meditate upon His promises to us.

How many of us have ever taken the time to ask Him about our money and possessions? I did not until some five years ago. Learning about this area never crossed my mind. I had no interest or desire. However, after reading Howard Dayton’s book Your Money Counts , my whole perspective on this area changed. I realized for the first time in my life that the Bible does in fact have something relevant to say about this issue.

For some, the realities of our current situation may be coming into clear focus with job losses, reduced income, and inability to meet our monthly bills, let alone pay for the essentials. Mortgage payments and payments for credit cards and lines of credit become overwhelming.

God’s promises us that as we draw or come close to Him, He in turn will come close to us. When we do this in relation to our finances, He reveals His heart for this area of our lives. These new revelations begin to impact our desires and habits. The change of heart gives way to getting our financial house in order.

Allow Him to whisper hope, faith, and peace into your heart. Let Him speak to you about what to give up, what to give away and how to guard your heart from overspending in this season. May you become rooted and anchored in His love for you as you receive all He speaks to you.

May we see these days as an opportunity to pursue Him and to discover Him in fresh ways as He comes close to us. What a wonderful promise!

The Sifting of the Heart - Jesus' Promise to Us

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 15:58:21 GMT

“Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.” Romans 8:34

Just before His death, Jesus told Peter that He would be praying for him as the enemy came to sift his heart (Luke 22:31-34). He knew the pressures that would be coming against Peter in the days ahead would work something into him and was letting him know He would be praying for him.

This account gave me pause - are we experiencing a time of sifting today?

Today we find ourselves in unusual circumstances. What we thought we knew yesterday is no longer a given or a definite today. Each day brings new information and changing circumstances, if not for ourselves, for loved ones or people we know.

The metaphor of the refinement process of precious metals used in Scriptures helps us to grasp what the Spirit of the Lord may be doing in this season. The intensity of fire to bring purity to the metals is exacting and uncompromising. There is no way around the process of bringing forth pure gold or silver. 1 Cor. 3:10-15 defines the process.

Some would say they have already experienced purifying fires in past seasons. The residue of burnt smoke lingers in their nostrils. Some still sting from the burning process. Others bear the scars, recovering day by day.

We are all experiencing an intensity of the unknown, not only wondering if the COVID-19 virus will strike us or those near to us, but what about the implications of the pandemic? Our financial situation is suddenly brought into sharp focus. Layoffs are suddenly announced, businesses are closed, stock markets with investments and retirement funds are disappearing rapidly, and the simple task of finding needed groceries and paying for them becomes a challenge. The list goes on and on. Each of us is trying to find the new normal with no end in sight.

We find new ways of coping. Some of them not so healthy. Fear and anxiety may become our new bedfellows. These emotions may give way to poor financial choices. We occupy our time with online shopping or make reactive decisions about investments and even panic buying of items that could take months and years to consume.

Jesus knew all these emotions and reactions had the potential to take us off course in our faith journey. In moments like this we have a choice to make. Do we cry out to the Lord for help and allow Him to do His purifying work in our lives?

The above verse is a promise to hold onto. Jesus is praying for you. He is praying for me.

May we hold onto this promise in this time of uncertainty. May we take comfort that He has our best interests at heart.

You Daily Blessings - Do You Watch for Them?

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 14:05:17 GMT

“ Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!” – Psalms 34:8

Do you look for the blessings in your day? Those little instances where you receive kisses from heaven? Surprises that catch you off guard? Some might be small and seemingly insignificant while others are more noticeable and impacting.

Did you know these blessings, even little ones, are Father’s way of letting you know He loves you? When you experience them, you can’t quite make sense of it all. Sometimes the gift and action are so contrary to what we anticipate in life, they are our undoing and our emotions can overwhelm us.

Life can be so full that we miss those little moments that signal to us that God loves us. A day can pass quickly before we even realize something was given to us. The gift can be a smile, a touch, or an embrace, a kind act of servitude, a gift of sorts, or a shared moment with someone special. Moments like these are to be treasured as God’s heavenly gifts to us.

Recently, while accompanying my wife for a consultation at a local hospital, we arrived thinking the appointment was on the second level. We were incorrect. Asking for directions from a nurse, she accompanied us to two other floors before finding the right location. The door to the clinic supposedly being locked, opened to find a housekeeping staff who without hesitation led us to another unit. Once again, another nurse assisted use confirmed that the clinic was closed. What could have been a frustrating experience was made so much easier by the help of ‘angels’ God positioned each step of the way to help us.

Before Christmas I was blessed in another way that caught me completely off guard. Our blender canister has fallen to the floor and cracked. Liquids were beginning to seep from this crack requiring the canister to be replaced. An internet search revealed the manufacturer being the only option for a replacement. Emailing them through their website brought a fairly prompt response. Payment information was exchanged and I was told the canister was being shipped that day, the last possible day before Christmas and minutes before they closed for the season. In my hurriedness, the credit card information provided proved faulty with one digit being incorrect. By the time it was resolved, the assistant emailed to say “no charge”. I thanked her -but not quite sure what that meant. Looking at my credit card statement a few weeks later, I realized she must have processed the order as a replacement and hence, the ‘no charge’ email.

These two incidents revealed to me how much God desires to bless us in so many different ways. They may be emotional, spiritual, physical and financial blessings. No matter what shape they come in, they are there for the receiving.

When did you last take time to reflect on your daily blessings?

Whom Are You Sowing Into?

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 16:48:25 GMT

“Now Barzillai was a very aged man, eighty years old. And he had provided the king with supplies while he stayed at Mahanaim, for he was a very rich man.” 2 Samuel 19:32

If I were to ask you whether you had ever heard of Barzillai, I suspect many of you would say you have not. Yet, he played a very important role in the life of David.

We first hear of Barzillai in 2 Samuel 17:27. He joined others in bringing bedding, utensils, grains, flour, beans, lentils, honey and curds, sheep, and cheese to sustain David and the people when he was forced to flee Jerusalem during a revolt by his son Absalom.

Barzillai was a man who knew who he was and what he had been called to do by the Lord. He knew he was to support David and his men in furthering the call upon David’s life despite what the natural evidence and circumstances suggested.

Reading about Barzillai’s life made me wonder if we are also provided opportunities to come alongside individuals and ministries the Lord places upon our hearts or into our spheres of relationships?

Leaders or individuals require others to see the call upon their lives. They also need those who understand the necessity of walking alongside them to see the fulfillment of this call. This walking alongside comes in various shapes and forms. One way is by praying for them daily and encouraging them in their journey. For others, their ability to sow into the lives of others to accomplish their assignment from the Lord is what the Lord is asking of them.

Barzillai was a man with means to support David financially in his call. Barzillai was described as being rich and provided for all kinds of practical needs as David and his men travelled and fought battles.

Perhaps at this point, you are thinking ‘I am not rich so how can I play a role in helping someone answer the call upon their life?’.

We all have been entrusted with resources from the Lord to varying degrees. The issue is not how much money you may have, but the willingness to be used by the Lord. The mission begins by asking Him who He wants you to sow into, how to do so and then following through on His leading.

Sowing may be a one-time event involving large or small gifts. Other times, the sowing may be for a short period of an affordable amount on a regular basis. Known as Gospel Patrons, there are also those who have been blessed with wealth who sow into the lives of others with a considerable amount.

Barzillai partnered with David and provided the means for him to accomplish his goals, and ultimately the work of the Lord. We all have this same opportunity.

Have you asked the Lord recently whose life you can sow into?

Good Endings...or New Beginnings

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 16:57:36 GMT

“ His compassion never ends. It is only the Lord’s mercies that have kept us from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his loving-kindness begins afresh each day.” Lamentations 3: 22- 23

As I read the feeds on Facebook and quickly scan numerous blogs, there are many references to making New Year’s resolutions. I have never done so myself, rather seeking the Lord what He might have in store for the year. Others, like some of my friends, seek a specific ‘word’ on which to focus for the year. My wife’s word last year was ‘trust’ and the Lord took her on an amazing journey in gaining a better understanding as to its meaning.

I do know that as the year came to a close, I found myself looking at our finances and reflecting on how the year went. I was thankful that we were able to continue to be debt free while continuing to save. I did acknowledge that despite not following our budget closely, we made slow and steady gains in our savings and giving. In this sense, it was a good conclusion to the year.

I must confess that I did not hold tightly to our budget. Having moved into a new home the previous year, some of our anticipated costs were estimates, not having gone through seasons that generally suggest additional expenses like running the air conditioning during the summer months. In some areas I had overestimated and in others, underestimated.

One additional admission is that our spending, or perhaps I should say my spending, did get a little out of hand over Christmas. I am by nature a gift giver and so fell into some old patterns and habits in my purchases.

I am so thankful that God meets us where we are at in our financial journey. He never condemns or shames us. We acknowledge our mistakes, repent of how we have done things, and cry out to Him for help. He loves us regardless of where we are in the journey.

My prayer is that as we move into the new year, each of us will open up our hearts to His love and guidance in our managing and stewarding of our finances. It is never too late to change how we do things with our finances and our spending. He gives us choices and we can start with a new sense of commitment.

Taking the time to commit our money and possessions to Him, recognizing that every financial decision becomes a financial decision as we invite Him into the decision-making process. We pray over our finances and ask for His leading and guidance. Seeking the help of others when making significant finances decisions is a wise and Biblical approach.

Thankfully I can hit the re-start button with my finances. I will re-visit our budget, tweak it once again and commit to following it for the well-being of my wife and family.

How will your relationship with money change this year? It could be a new beginning for you as well.

What Gift Will You Bring Him This Advent?

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 13:17:56 GMT

“So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manager. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child.” ~ Luke 2: 15 - 17

We live in a moment where our time seems to run away from us. If you are like me, you wonder where the day has gone, let alone where this year 2019 has disappeared. But, as I look at my calendar, it reminds me that we are rapidly approaching Christmas and the end of another year.

Life has been busy the past couple years, between work, a move, the arrival of two grandchildren and the responsibility of growing ministries. However, this year I purposed in my heart to read an Advent devotional written by a good friend and given to me over two years ago. I was not going to let another year pass without reading it.

Well, what a joy these pages have been to my heart and spirit. The words and depth of revelation has been inspiring and challenging all at the same time. Questions I had never considered in relation to the events leading up to the Messiah’s birth and His arrival provoke my thoughts.

The ponderings of the questions have led me to explore unsearched areas of my heart and understanding of the events told over and over each Christmas.

Like Zacharias, has any unbelief or any fear imposed an ungodly silence on me?

Am I like Mary, according the word spoken to her, “trustingly inquisitive, submissively obedient and prophetically worshipful”?

Like the Magi of old, would I bow my knee to Jesus and give Him the treasures of my heart?

The stirrings in my thoughts have led me to ask myself - What gift would I bring to Him this Advent season and the year that lies ahead? I have found myself responding with these words in my inner contemplations – I will give Him the gift of my presence . What more can I give than taking daily time to sit with Him, to delight in Him and to love on Him as He turn does with me?

I close this blog with the words Stuart McAlpine leaves with his readers in The Advent Overture ~ Meditations and Poems for the Christmas Season - “May you experience the personal and communal joy of the Lord this Advent. I am not talking about a seasonal happiness that comes from socially explicable gatherings, whether family or church, but a fresh incarnational, transformational joy in your life and circumstances, the joy that is indeed unspeakable and full of glory.”

Modern Day Slavery - Have You Become a Slave?

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 16:40:24 GMT

“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that you should not be their slaves; I have broken the bands of your yoke and made you walk upright.” Lev. 26:13

The Lord heard the cry of the Israelites as they served as slaves labouring under harsh conditions in Egypt under the ruler Pharaoh for over 400 years. The Lord led them out into the desert for 40 years to get Egypt “out” of their way of thinking, expectations and practices and transition them into the promised land.

A friend and I were discussing recently this history recorded in the Bible and how in reality many Christians are finding themselves back in Egypt once again.

As I pondered this I realized that the Lord provided some clear instructions about how to manage one’s affairs to walk in the fullness of the His blessings. Deuteronomy 27 & 28 gives a whole list of guidelines about life’s issues that result in people walking under curses or blessings.

The Lord knew that money was one of those issues that had the potential to take people off course in their worship of Him. Having experienced and suffered intense persecution, the desire to be free of slavery through wealth and possessions had a strong pull on the Israelites thoughts and hearts. In light of this, God set out clear parameters, or what I call ‘guard rails’ so they did not get off course in living their lives for Him.

I am not so sure these days, if we have not found ourselves back to this place of “slavery”. The culture of today and the voices surrounding us whether it be social media, advertising or the internet, seeks to entice us at the core of our beings. Messaging around “you deserve it”, “treat yourself” and “you have worked hard – reward yourself” are ever present impacting us consciously and unconsciously.

Often, without even any awareness, we often fall prey to these overt and subliminal influences. Before realizing it, we find ourselves living beyond our means, carrying and servicing debt that is slowly crushing our lives. Rather than us deciding where our money goes, we are making required payments to lines of credit, credit cards or other readily available loans that are too costly and lengthy.

In my mind, this in reality becomes a form of slavery. Slavery defined means “a person who is the legal property of another and is forced to obey them”. A slave related to “one who works excessively hard”. We have allowed ourselves to come under the ‘jurisdiction’ of our debt, being obligated to make payments and directing our finances to appease contractual agreements with our instruments of debt.

God’s heart for us is to be free of the ensnarement of money and possessions. They are meant not to ‘own’ us or fulfill our desire for contentment, identity or worth, but to be expressions of worship to Him and tools in our hands for His Kingdom purposes.

Being a Steady Plodder

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 13:15:15 GMT

Proverbs 21:5 (TLB) says, “ Steady plodding brings prosperity; hasty speculation brings poverty.”

The word plodder is not a commonly used word in today’s culture. The word gives the impression of one who is old and shuffling along, slowly step by step, labouring to make head way on their walk or journey.

When examining this word more closely, one discovers that it conveys the sense of ‘one who is filling a large barrel one handful at a time.’ I found that image rather startling - thinking of how long it would take to fill a large barrel, handful by handful, wondering if the barrel would ever get filled up. What a tedious and time-consuming process.

One could try to work hard and quicken the process, but it would not take long before you would grow weary and disheartened by the length of time needed to fill the barrel to the top. It would seem like an endless task and what joy is in that?

God uses this description in connection to our money management – particularly in relation to our debt. If we decide we no longer want to live with debt, we begin to look at how we can pay our debts off. This means all the debt, such as credit cards, loans, lines of credit, car payments, and other payments, made on a regular basis.

Itemizing each of these is important. We begin by snowballing them – that is starting with the smallest payment and working to pay it off first, then adding that amount to the next lowest loan and doing this over and over until you are working on your last and largest loan.

I have seen people start this process to discover that as they finish paying off one debt they begin to experience such joy and relief. As they work faithfully to keep this up, they slowly pay off many, if not all, of their debts over a number of months or years.

The process of doing this can seem to take forever. But, we did not get into debt overnight, so likewise, dealing with it can take some time. This is where the picture of filling a large barrel by a handful becomes experiential.

Steady plodding is like that. It is step by step, choice by choice, sacrifice by sacrifice, and making slow and steady gains in paying off debt. However, as you begin to see progress, there comes a great sense of satisfaction with your accomplishments.

If something happens and you get off track, acknowledge and repent of it, and ask the Lord to help you once again get on track. Do not let shame and guilt derail you. We all make mistakes. Learn from them and grow in further wisdom and insight.

God is there to help us each step of the way as we steadily and slowly fill the large barrel handful by handful, plodding steadily to gain victory over the debt that has weighed on your heart and life for so long.

Being a Good Samaritan

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 17:50:04 GMT

I was recently reading a devotional that grabbed my attention. The devotional focused on the parable of the Good Samaritan. The author noted that each of us shares a fragility and humanness – each affected by the brokenness of the world. We share a common need. Jesus is the Good Samaritan who brings us our healing.

This insight got me to thinking more about this parable and its application. I know we have all read it from time to time and heard sermons on it.

The thing that struck me was the Good Samaritan’s willingness to not only minister to the need but he was prepared to pay the cost. He beautifully demonstrated the ability ‘to love our neighbour as ourselves’.

The parable depicts the Good Samaritan who pours oil and wine on the man’s injuries, places him on his own donkey and leads him to a reputable inn. The Good Samaritan asks the owner to lodge and care for the wounded man while he recovers. Two silver coins, representing two days of wages, are given to seal the deal and a promise made cover any additional costs.

As I pondered the realities of this scenario, three take aways came to mind.

First, we need to plan for the unexpected. This Good Samaritan had money in his pocket for the unexpected. Perhaps he had to deprive himself of some need or want. Yet, he had the resources on hand to do want he needed to do.

Second, the Good Samaritan was available when he was needed. There are times we know there is a need and we by-pass it. It may be too costly personally or financially. Or it may require saving up for the need. As the Lord moved on his heart, he could respond in the moment.

Lastly, the Good Samaritan sowed into someone’s life. We presume he did not know the injured man, but he was willing to express his love, count the cost and meet a need that existed in someone else’s life. He poured his love, concern and finances into the need.

There are times when I sense the Lord’s promptings and I do respond to the need. Yet, these realizations challenge me again. Could I meet the need in the moment? How about those panhandling on the street corners looking for a bit of change? I insulate myself by saying I do not carry cash with me.

Other times, I am simply in a hurry trying to get things done and trying to stay focused. My headspace is elsewhere. I miss being in the moment and seeing the need and responding. Or, I may say in mind that I will do it later but later never comes.

Then there are those moments when I do want to sow into people’s lives, but I become distracted, forget about the request or lose the email and the desire is lost or quickly forgotten.

I am challenged once again by the parable of the Good Samaritan. I hope you are too.

Who Do I Serve - God or Money?

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 18:10:32 GMT

At first glance, most, if not all of us would say we serve the Lord. But if I were to take a step back and be honest with myself, I might answer a little differently.

I remember a season in my life where I seemed to be absorbed with earning money to live and pay my bills. I also gave a tithe to the Lord even though in reality the tithe was coming from my line of credit or credit card due to the debt load we were carrying. The cycle was stressful and seemingly relentless.

However, at one point I recall pondering what was life really about. What was my true motivation for working? Was I really fulfilling the call of God upon my life? Or had I found myself caught up in an endless cycle of working each day to pay the bills to start all over again next day?

As I began to ponder these questions and pray about it, I came to a new understanding. I really wanted to be obedient to the Lord and focus on what He had for me - to begin to see my life and calling from His perspective. I wanted to not be caught up in a continuous cycle that was unsatisfying and unfulfilling.

I realized that I had gotten caught up in the trap of working to earn money for present day realities, having a life I had always dreamt of and felt I deserved because I worked so hard, and for future days when I would be retired.

Gradually this process of self-reflection led to a change of employment and focus. I had a sense of needing to re-calibrate with a focus on pursuing what God had for me in this season even with a wife and growing children.

Following my decision, I even let go of an offer for a six-figure salary to walk into the unknown. The story of Abraham and his sojourn into the unknown became my comforting refrain. Colleagues could not wrap their thinking around my decision, yet one remarked how envious he was of me, getting out of the day-to-day grind and stepping into the freedom of something different.

Three days after leaving my job, the Lord amazingly open up a new opportunity – one that I had not anticipated. It allowed for a different pace of life and a different focus. No longer was I demanded to be available 24/7 by mobile or pager. I could choose my own working hours.

I found myself being able to have concentrated time with the Lord and growing spiritually in a new way. I realized that He wanted to reveal to me His Father’s heart and love for me. It was not how hard I could work to live life, but how much I could trust Him with my life and the needs of my loved ones.

My heart entered into a new place of rest in His love and provision. Somehow I began to see how He cares so much for us, even greater than the birds of the air and the flowers of field.

My focus shifted to resting in His provision for my every need. I no longer needed to feel stressed out trying to earn the money to cover everything I thought was important in life. The more I learned to lean into Him, to rest and trust Him for everything and follow His leading, I deeply knew He would look after me and the needs of my family. I am so grateful for this new level of freedom in my journey with Him.

Do You Have Gazelle Tenacity?

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 19:13:35 GMT

Friends of mine recently drew my attention to a verse I had never seen before. Proverbs 6:5, which says, “Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.” As you read from the beginning of the chapter, you can see that this verse relates to making a pledge on behalf of your neighbour.

In today’s vernacular, this pledge means you are co-signing a loan with someone, thereby making you responsible for the debt. To put it another way, this verse could read – ‘free yourself from debt, like a gazelle from the hand of a hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.’

Interestingly, when you study the gazelle, it is often hunted by a cheetah or leopard. Although gazelles travel at high speeds, so do cheetahs. To survive, a gazelle has learned to jump and run in quick, unpredictable movements in order to avoid a death by a cheetah. This behaviour tires out the cheetah and gives them incentive to give up the chase.

One may ask what has this to do with debt? Good question!

Proverbs makes it clear that we need to have strategies like the gazelle if we want to free ourselves and avoid debt. Doing so requires a tenaciousness to get free – free from debt and the poor choices and habits we may have developed over the years.

The habits form so easily. Maybe a morning Starbucks to start the day and mid-afternoon for one to stay awake or maybe lunch out with colleagues to catch up on life. It could be a new outfit for work to keep looking sharp and in style. It might be a dinner out with your spouse or friends to have some fun or perhaps ordering in has become a habit when your day has been stressful.

Taken at face value, these habits seem to be givens and are not wrong in of themselves. Credit card payments and lines of credit seem to be the norm. When these practices seen in the larger picture, when money is already tight, they can move you over the red line and hold you captive. As Proverbs 22:7 says, “The poor are always ruled over by the rich, so don’t borrow and put yourself under their power.” (The Message)

So what does gazelle tenacity look like? We seek to intentionally avoid the pitfalls our culture promotes – spending money we do not have for things we really do not need. We make the hard choices and do not give into our desires and emotions. We choose to keep our spending within our means. We budget and stick to it. We make every dollar work for us. We tell our hard earned money where it goes rather than having someone tell us differently. We cut out those things that are not really necessary to limit our spending and plan for special moments that do not put us over the red zone financially or emotionally.

It can be done. I know because I have been there.

A Journey of Discovery

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 18:08:22 GMT

I have been pondering of late how the Lord works in our lives through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. I am amazed at how He is so kind and wise. There are times when a direct word is what I need. Yet, other times I need to ‘chew’ on an issue. In other words, depending on the season of my life and what God is doing, sometimes I need to be pulled up short and other times I need a little space to process things.

When Jesus taught, He also ministered to where the people were at in their thinking and processing. He often taught the masses through parables. Even when posed a question, He was way ahead in their thinking and would often respond with a question in turn.

Truth went into the heart as He spoke. If you are like me, it is in those moments of hearing someone, speak, you know someone has spoken a profound truth. There is a strong sense you really need to ‘unpack’ the comments to get the fuller meaning.

When Jesus spoke the people listened. They often walked away after hearing Him share ‘stories’ or parables that had multiple levels of understanding and revelation, to give the accounts further thought and to discuss them with family and friends.

In essence, He invited people into a journey of discovery. The Bible records that Mary would hear things about her son Jesus and she would ‘ponder these things’. She would hold them in her heart, reflecting upon them from time to time, wondering and considering what they meant.

The process of pondering allows the Holy Spirit to engage us in a journey of discovery, so in the process we come to ‘know’ what we know as our own. The revelation becomes a part of our thinking and heart beliefs.

The discovery process is a journey. A step-by-step revealing and unfolding of multiple layers of truth that begins to grip our understanding and heart in different and unique ways.

Interestingly, Jesus’ parables often related to money - in nearly half of them. He knew money was a day-to-day reality for the masses, and wanted them to connect with the related heart issues.

Even today, as we read the parables, we have opportunity to ask the Holy Spirit to give us deeper understanding. He continually invites us to journey further with Him as we explore His teaching in this area at deeper and deeper levels.

He slowly reveals the complexity of the issues so intricately entwined with our heart. Layers of revelation begin to dawn in our understanding and we begin to recognize His heart to see us so free in from the grip of money in our lives and to avoid the trappings.

The insights and perspectives gained begin to bring course direction to our lives. Our beliefs, habits and world-views about finances and possessions begin to realign with His heart. Slowly we begin to see things so much differently.

He invites us into this journey of discovery every day of our lives, in every aspect of our lives, especially and including how we view our finances. The journey never ends. Thankfully we never walk it alone, the best part is that He is ever with us.

Where are you on your journey of discovery?

Tearing Down the High Places of Our Lives

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 17:34:57 GMT

“Break down their altars, smash their sacred stones and burn their Asherah poles in the fire; cut down the idols of their gods and wipe out their names from those places.” Deut. 12:3

Throughout Biblical history, we read accounts of how the people established high places that were an offence to the Lord. The ‘high places’ were places of pagan worship, most often built on high hills or mountains and under trees, and thought to bring people closer to their false gods. The worship would include sacrifices, burning incense and rituals. In essence, the high places were centres of idolatry.

Time after time, the Lord spoke to the Israelites through prophets and kings that these places of worship had to be destroyed and the names of the gods blotted out from their memory. Due to ignorance or rebellious disobedience, this did not happen in many instances. God then judged Israel for their failure to do so.

The worship of pagan gods took the people’s eyes off the Lord and interfered with their worship and relationship with Him. The people looked to the idols to provide guidance, provision and deliverance from life’s challenges.

Little has changed in today’s culture. We still have high places in our culture and lives. High places are anything that is elevated above God, praised, worshiped, fixated on, or looked to for help or trusted.

Idols or high places in our lives are reflected in our relationship with money and possessions. Jesus said that we cannot serve both God and mammon (Matthew 6:24).

Mammon is defined as “ wealth regarded as an evil influence or false object of worship and devotion”. Mammon is characterized by self-focus, immediate gratification, greed, coveting, and lust for more. This power keeps us grasping on to our money rather than blessing others, keeps us focused on ourselves and our wants and desires, and keeps us focused on fear for lack of not enough. We believe that all our problems would be resolved if we only had a little more money – even for Kingdom purposes. These characteristics are figuratively the high places in our lives.

Perhaps you recognize some of the aspects just mentioned. Jesus asked us to follow after Him, to deal with these areas and to give Him full Lordship over our lives. He knew these ‘things’ or ‘idols’ could get in the way of our true worship of Him and would be barriers in our growing intimacy with Him.

John spoke to the believers and warned them in 1 John 5:21 “ Keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts.” (NLT)

God has directed us to tear down the high places in our lives so He can rule and reign in our lives. That means as He speaks to us, we yield and respond to His promptings and leading.

May the Lord help us to see the high places in our lives, turning away from them to follow after Him, worshipping Him and Him alone, tearing down and rooting out every idol in our lives.

Christmas Through the Eyes of a Child

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Mon, 17 Dec 2018 18:42:42 GMT

Once again Christmas nears. Gifts are bought, Christmas e-cards are sent, agendas juggled with Christmas plays and meals at church or at friend’s homes, vacation plans made, and Christmas day meal plans crafted with sleeping arrangements for those travelling from out of town.

Excitement grows with each day as Christmas nears. Children’s energy levels seem to have no bounds. Thoughts and dreams fill their minds with presents, sweets and visits with cousins and playing games inside and out.

One child stands alone watching all that is happening. Yes, all the fun and festivities are great but there is something yearning deep within. The sense of anticipation is different. There is a coming moment of expectancy.

At last the special night arrives. It is the evening before Christmas. As part of a yearly tradition, this little boy’s mom and dad take out ever so carefully the manger figurines. One by one they are set in their places, all-facing the manger filled with straw but yet still empty. The wise men are placed first, then perhaps an angel or two, the animals, Joseph and Mary and finally the manger itself find its place. Then comes the moment. His mom passes him the smallest figurine in the box. Baby Jesus. Delicately and carefully he takes the figure from his mother’s hands. He carefully gives the small, delicate baby in his hands a close look. Yes all is well – he has all his fingers and toes. He gently lays the baby in the manger. At last baby Jesus is laid in his place at the centre of the nativity scene.

What joy fills this small boy’s heart. The moment he has waited for has arrived.

The boy looks around and sees his mom and dad and older siblings all gazing upon the manger scene. A sense of contentment fills his heart. Jesus has his place.

He knows the story of baby Jesus. He has heard it told many times over. Yet the wonder of it all still fills his heart.

Does anyone feel the way he does?

In that moment he knows that Jesus no longer lives in a manger but in his heart. As Jesus was the focus of those gathered around him, so Jesus is the centre of his heart. There was a sweet awareness that this simple act held more for him. A renewed friendship and bond - one that could not be described by words, an experience too deep to articulate and profoundly complex.

The little boy had caught the essence of the true meaning of Christmas. He had not lost the awe and wonder of the moment. All the gift buying and tinsel and glitter did not lose it. He held tightly to the delight of placing Jesus in his place. Not only in the manger but also at the very centre of his heart. His heart swelled with joy just as the shepherds and angels did so long ago – worshipping and give glory to this precious Gift.

May this same joy find its way into our heart this Christmas season.

A Pastor’s Life Transforming Journey

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 14:36:45 GMT

A couple years ago my wife came home with a book that I would never have read unless she said I really needed to. It had nothing to do with my ‘to read list’ and tackled a subject I suspect I have avoided most of my life. Just the title “Your Money Counts” held no interest for me. However, I decided to follow my wife’s advice.

Not too far into the book, my attention was arrested. The author, Howard Dayton, challenged me to give all my belongings and money back to the Lord. I vividly recall this moment of hitting the pause button. Yes, I could simply have skimmed over that page and instruction, but I was unable to do so. I know myself well enough to know that if challenged to release something back to the Lord, I want to be able to do it.

So, after much reflection and recognizing perhaps for the first time the hold money had over my habits and me, I signed the agreement. I did not consider myself in debt, as least by my own standards. I thought everyone had a line of credit and used credit cards regularly to earn points to travel or buy extra things.

I suddenly found myself being dared to think differently. If my money and all that I own – all of it - actually belongs to God, then I am responsible for managing them to the best of my ability and with Him in mind. This thinking was foreign to me. I just thought that the tithe belonged to the Lord.

So began a much deeper journey into this area then I ever anticipated. By going back to God’s Word and studying this whole area, I discovered Jesus had a lot more to say about money than even about subjects we might consider more important, such as faith and prayer. (To my shock, I even began working for a ministry whose focus was money. The Lord sure had a sense of humour on that one.)

The more I studied this whole area, the more I realized how little I knew and how little we talk openly about this subject within our church communities. It seems this subject is often taboo and, as a result, most of us rely on what we hear and are taught by what we hear from our peers or read on the Internet and social media.

One key aspect of my discovery was this thing they call ‘mammon’. What the heck is that? I found it in Matthew 6:24 and Luke 16: 13 where it says, “ No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

I realized that this verse warns us that there is a competitor for our affections that will impact our relationship with Jesus. My research, and that of my colleague Jan Kupecz, led us to co-author a short booklet entitled “It’s Not About the Money – unmasking mammon”.

As one financial advisor remarked after recently reading it, “This is a must-read for the Body of Christ right now”.

As one pastor to another, I would highly recommend you give this booklet a read. Financial Discipleship Canada has decided to give it away for free. It is a short and an easy read. You can obtain it as a download by visiting www.notmine.ca or by clicking on this link free e-resource that allows you to read it on-line.

My prayer is that you will find the booklet to be transformational. Please savour it and read it through prayerfully and allow the Lord to speak to your heart and to your spirit: to listen to what the Father might be speaking to you about your belief system and attitude towards money.

Rev. Ray Borg

Ministry & Church Liaison

Financial Discipleship Canada

The Lost Art of Discipleship

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 14:55:53 GMT

One would wonder if the term ‘disciple’ seems to have become a lost term in today’s culture of self-absorption, self-focus and entitlement. This concept stands in stark contrast to Jesus’ call to die to self and being a disciple of Him.

I remember in the late 70’s and early 80’s when in Bible college there was much teaching about the Paul-Timothy relationship of discipleship and mentoring. However, over the past several years, I fail even to hear the word being used. Has the art of disciple making become lost in today’s church culture?

As I have been pondering this, I reflected on the meaning of a ‘disciple’. A disciple was one who followed a particular teacher, a Rabbi with whom they developed a strong and intimate relationship. They pursued intentionally time with them, to learn intimately their language, thinking and lifestyle.

Students in Biblical times were known by their espoused thinking, commentary and writings as having been discipled by a particular scholar or stream of thinking. I believe in some senses this is still evident today, particular in the political sphere: particular streams of thinking and values reflect certain politics.

Simply stated, a ‘disciple’ grasped hold of and assimilated the thinking and worldview of their teacher. In time, they could be identified by the words that came of their mouth.

As we reflect on the life of Jesus and His twelve disciples, we see how He carried out the process of discipleship. Twelve men had the privilege and opportunity to walk with Jesus for three years, learning at His feet, observing Him minister in the marketplaces of life, touching, healing and restoring people, and seeing their lives changed and being set free in many areas. He was also known to often withdraw from the crowds to get alone, even away from His disciples to speak to His Father.

What modelling the disciples were exposed to! We likewise are exposed to this methodology of disciple making as we study and read God’s Word. We discover His approach and His interchanges with His disciples. We see how He taught and instructed these men in pursuit of His knowledge and wisdom.

So let me ask a question - is our language, worldview and thinking reflective of our teacher Jesus? Have we pursued Him intentionally? Do we understand what Jesus had to teach and say about money and possessions and is this reflected in our lifestyle, language, what flows out of heart and our worldview? Is His teaching part of our heartbeat and not only resident in our thinking?

How important is your desire to follow after Jesus and His teaching in this significant area of our lives. We gain wisdom and understanding as we read Jesus’ instructions to His disciples and the masses. He modelled His thinking about money. When we explore His teaching, our worldview shifts. As a result, our language and thinking becomes very different from today’s voices and culture which seeks to seduce us into different ways of thinking and behaving.

As I gave further thought to disciple making I thought of Judas. He was a chosen disciple of Jesus, he walked with Him, learned from Him, heard His heart and yet there was an un-yielded area of his heart and life. He was seduced by mammon and for the mere price of thirty pieces of silver, betrayed His teaching and Rabbi - the one He sought to emulate and honour. What a caution for each of us and recognition that there are times when we will be enticed to choose to walk another path other than what Jesus taught.

May our hearts be stirred to intentionally seek to be disciples of Jesus in the area of money and possessions.

The Allure...of Mammon (spiritual influences, mammon)

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 14:49:15 GMT

I recently found myself aware that I was being allured or subtly seduced in my thinking. I did not notice the process right away, in fact, I think it happened over the course of many weeks. When I came to terms with the realization of what was happening, I was very quickly able to label it for what it was: mammon.

Let me describe what happened and see if you can relate.

My wife and I felt earlier this spring that we were in a time of transition. I know in some circles that is a fairly common term. However, I could identify several areas in our lives where this was taking place – just not one isolated aspect.

The transition included our being re-positioned physically, specifically moving houses. After a time of weighing up this possibility, we felt a clear sense of needing to make a move. We discussed which realtor we would use and considered how many changes we might need to make in our house to ready it for the real estate market.

We solicited the help and advice of a Christian realtor we knew. As part of their services, an interior designer or home stager was engaged to work with us. Darlene was wonderful and very adept at her task. She made suggestions after assessing the home and what would give us the advantage without major expense when placing our house on the market.

Needless to say, the whole process took us four months to scratch off the list of recommendations. Important learning and new skill sets were developed along the way. DIY projects have new meaning.

The shift in thinking began to happen with greater strength as we neared the end of the renos and began to envision the house being on the market. We initially established an idea of what we wanted to spend on our new house and with that information our realtor set up an automated email flow of houses that fit our criteria.

We watched our in-box daily to see what would have appeal. As this happened and we looked at other potential options, our financial figures slowly and subtly began shifting. We were no longer content with those properties fitting our initial criteria but over time our interest grew in pricier homes.

We began dreaming about the spaces and décor of our new house. The location and possible other options that might accompany the new property got added along the way. Even our catchment area grew in size.

At last, our house went on the market and, amazingly, was sold in just over a day dependent upon a house inspection. Within the week, this inspection was completed and the conditions were waived and final sign off took place. We now found ourselves in that place of needing to move and having no new house arranged.

Discussions with our mortgage broker, a friend of ours, on the day of the final sign off, suddenly brought into sharp realty our situation and buying potential. Both my wife and I were speechless when we heard the figures.

In reality, we could perhaps make the mortgage payments for a house that fit our dreams…well sort of. But was that what we really wanted? We are nearing the later seasons of our working career and what would be the wisest path? Is now the time to take on the largest mortgage of our married lives?

In the midst of the mini-crisis, I suddenly had the realization of what had happened to us…or better said - moi! I had been seduced by the allure of having a larger, more updated home then we currently had. I rationalized that it would be great place to invite and entertain our friends over a meal. Without realizing it, the houses worth considerably more than our current one and, over the price criteria we had initially established, had become a seemingly obtainable goal.

Nothing like reality pulling you up short and finding yourself asking how you got there.

Matthew 6:24 says, “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

Mammon seeks to seduce us, to put our trust in money rather than God. In this instance, I bought into the lie that the lower priced homes were not enough for me. I needed something grander and more appealing then those first homes we looked at. Somehow I got disconnected from reality and what was affordable.

What a wake up call for me!

Does any of this story relate to your thinking? I believe it is time to be alert to what is influencing us spiritual in our financial decisions. Consider what mammon might be saying to you.

The Power of Repentance and Forgiveness

ray@financialdiscipleship.ca — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 14:24:11 GMT

We all have found ourselves in places or moments of time when we feel we have made poor financial decisions for whatever reason. We live with the consequences of our decisions, sometimes lasting for years and years. We wonder if there will be any end to the suffering…often done in silence without the knowledge of those closest to us. Other occasions, the mistake is front and centre for all to see.

It could be the loss of a job due to a firing thus leading to a car being re-possessed, possessions removed due to lack of payment and a house needing to be sold because mortgage payments can no longer be made.

It could be a lifestyle of always spending beyond your means which then leads to the constant flow of bills into our mailboxes, over-due notices, threatening calls from collection agencies become more aggressive over time and the threat of needing to declare bankruptcy become present day reality.

Maybe your experience comes nowhere close to those realities. It may be as simple as buying something spontaneously on credit when you said you were not going to do that again, perhaps an on-line purchase you are hiding from your loved one or a cheque book that does not balance.

These experiences, some more severe than others, still impact our lives and walk with the Lord. Subtly and without question, there is a sense of shame, guilt and condemnation that creeps upon you. For some reason or another, you feel a sense of distance from the Lord. The sense may be difficult to identify, but there is a vague feeling something is lurking but not sure what it is.

In our walk with the Lord, the enemy uses subtle ways to create a sense of alienation between the Lord and us; that He is disappointed in us and has distanced Himself from us. For some there is even the sense, depending on our sense of Fatherhood, that the Lord may come after us with ‘big stick’ to punish us.

These subtleties are ploys of the enemy to take us off course in our relationship with the Lord, to sow lies into our thinking, to destroy the intimacy we share with Him.

Yet we read in Romans 2:4 "Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?" His loving kindness draws us to enter into that place where we can come into the presence of the Lord and confess our sin, share our heart and disappointments with Him, and release them to Him.

As we read in 1 John 1: 9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” There is a place of finding release and relief from the weight of poor financial choices, decisions and habits.

This process is called repentance and with it comes forgiveness. What a gift! Jesus made a way for each one of us. As we confess Him as our Lord and Saviour, He meets with us and releases His unmerited grace, enabling strength and restoration. He claims us as His own, lifts the weight and burden of our sin, restores us to right relationship with Him and a sense of cleansing that runs deep and pure.

We are free to journey onwards unhindered by any shame from the past course of actions. The slate has wiped clean and we are free to start over, to walk a new path and try once again. If we fail and fall again, His arms are open wide and welcoming. We only need to run to Him and confess once again, forgive ourselves, and receive His forgiveness.

May I encourage you to take a few moments and ask the Lord what ‘weights’ are you carrying with you right now. What shame, guilt and condemnation has plagued your journey with Him. As He puts His finger on those things you may have hidden, pushed away, or shoved down deep inside, confess and release them to the Lord. He comes with no condemnation or need to punish. He welcomes and bids us to come to Him freely. The freedom from shame, guilt and condemnation is liberating.

Thank God for the power of repentance and forgiveness!

Untrustworthiness of Money

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 15:46:55 GMT

These days, I find myself observing what I hear and read through advertisements and social media messaging about money and its power. The message is that money has the power to buy things and to satisfy my every longing and desire.

I see friends post photos on Instagram or Facebook of great vacation spots around the world that I have never explored. I see regular postings of new fashions for both sexes. Then my foodie friends post hot restaurant spots with great food items that temp my palate. There is no end to the pictures and articulate descriptions each post captures.

I open the mail and receive notices from my credit card company saying congrats on your credit line being increased – “just call this number and we will gladly do it for you”. There are also those random mail items from banking and credit card institutions that offer new credit cards or lines of credit – with quick and easy on-line applications that take only moments to fill out and have approved within minutes.

What Today’s Voices Tell Us…

The messaging from so many voices tells us that money is easily available to fulfill your every want and desire. They make it sound so easy and enticing. People are seduced every moment of the day by the temptations and enticements sent their way.

Unfortunately, people are easily caught up in the euphoria of buying and spending whether through debit or credit cards, lines of credit or payday loans. Each of these streams of revenue can become crippling when not managed well. Very quickly purchases loose their luster as the bills begin arriving and the payments climb in values. Expensive vacations are easily forgotten as the routines of life take over and payments continue on and on. Even the new car, once dinged or sustaining a crumbled fender or two, quickly diminishes the joy and pride of ownership.

Somehow we have been given the message that the abundance of money will fulfill and satisfy our feelings for contentment, identity, significance, security and peace. So, readily, we put our trust in money to provide these things, never taking the time to take a step back and really assess what is happening to us.

Without realizing it, many people have lost their way in handling their money and possessions. The grip things can have over our heart and lives can be incredibly strong. It becomes a challenge to let those things die on the altar of the Lord and yield to His leading and guidance.

The Trap…

I remember many years ago I was in New Orleans where there was an abundance of shops enticing one to enter and for a small fee you can play a game to win various trophies i.e. ‘gifts for loved ones’, I believe I was told, like curling irons and plastic objects readily available at a dollar store these days. Well, I walked into one and before long had spent over a $100.00 and had a few items to show for it. If I would spend just ten dollars more, the prizes were worth so much more. I had run out of money and when looking at my friends, they asked me what was I doing. Their question shook me out of a dazed state and I chose to walk away from the table. As I walked out of the shop, I looked at the name overhead. It read “Redemption Centre”. How ironic was that. I never forgot that experience, as it was a major learning moment for me: one that is still fresh with me thirty years later.

I learned that day the power of money’s seductiveness or what the Bible calls mammon. I had put my trust in money buying me joy, excitement and contentment. How deceptive is that!? Only God can be my source of a deep and lasting sense of joy, peace and contentment.

May we not be caught unaware of this deceptive trap and do as the voices ‘out there’ tell us, putting our trust in money. This message will disappoint over and over!

Making Significant Financial Decisions (financial planning, stewardship)

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 15:29:29 GMT

Throughout our life, we are presented with financial decisions as we enter new seasons and developmental stages. As a child, we need to figure our how to wisely spend our precious dollars from an allowance. As a young adult, we consider what university to attend, near or far away from home, and how to pay for it. As we grow older, we make decisions about our car and home. Even in our aging years, we need to make decisions about retirement living and with loss of mobility and mental capacities, what supported living arrangements are best and affordable.

Most of these decisions have significant implications on our family, lifestyle, future and ability to respond to and fulfill the call of God on our lives. The impact of these factors need to be considered individually and collectively.

The Process…

If you are married, I believe it is important to begin the decision making process by being intentional in making the decision with your spouse. Walking in unity in areas such as our finances is important for the foundation of your marriage. If not done, the area of money management can be an area the enemy uses to bring conflict and division.

For those not married, finding a trusted friend whom you believe has your best interests at heart, willing to speak truth in invaluable. Parents and or other significant family members can also aid in the process of assessing all aspects of the decision.

Most important of all, is giving the decision and the outcome to the Lord. Trust the Lord will lead you as you make financial decisions. By entrusting the decision to the Lord, you are in essence giving Him permission to speak and guide you. He desires to bless and give you wisdom as you seek Him with all your heart. "If the Lord delights in a man's way, He makes his steps firm" (Ps. 37:23).

Secondly, gather all the facts. Fact gathering positions you to see the realities of the situation and in some ways distance yourself from the emotion of the decision making process. Luke 14: 28 says, "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”

Another key step is to consider what the Word has to say about increasing your debt and living beyond your means, not being able to give and bless, and living in ongoing fear and anxiety. Consider taking the time to read what Jesus taught about money and possessions and apply this teaching to your life. Sometimes what we believe we need is in actuality a ‘want’ and we can let it go or set our sights a little lower.

Also, give yourself the space and time to make the decision. In many instances, the urgency of tyranny is driven by our own emotions and thinking. In reality, there is always time to weigh all aspects of the decision and to ‘sleep on it’, allowing God and yourself to see another perspective not always evident at the moment.

One other step is to ask the Lord for confirmations. God uses others to bring us counsel as Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” The confirmation from others can reveal any deception of our own hearts. "Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses" (2 Cor. 13:1b). This is God's way of keeping us within the hedge of His protection.

Finally, once you have made the decision, do you have a peace in your heart about it? If your thoughts are still racing and all over the place, this might be a red flag to slow down and re-consider all the above steps.

Moving Forward…

There is nothing more freeing and life giving to see God go before us and make a way in our finances when we least expect it. By giving the process and decision to Him, we welcome His Lordship in this area of our lives and allow Him to meet us in our time of need. It also opens the doors for miracles.

As Os Hillman said – “write your plans in pencil and give God the eraser!”