Financial Wisdom

It's God's will that His people are wise because foolish decision and act make it difficulty to enjoy His gracious provisions. We are so lucky to know God and follow His way, our hope is beyond this world. This lesson will give financial advice and help to manage our money wisely. The way we handle money should reflect our trust in God and provide for eternal purpose. Money shouldn't be only for self-satisfaction and enjoyment, it must be used to advance God's kingdom. Luke 16:11 - therefore if ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? These followings are discussed: Adopt a Biblical Work Ethic; On Lending and Borrowing, and Build a good Reputation.

Adopt a Biblical Work Ethics: There is no hope for success in laziness. Laziness is destructive as the behaviour leads to procrastination, failure to plan for the future, willingness to be idle and lack of interest in taking responsibility (proverbs 6:6-11). Laziness is conceived in the heart and if it overtakes one's life denies a person sense of effective planning and responsibility. In order to succeed we must plan ahead and work towards getting the best result. The foolish and indolent will find an excuse to sleep than to work and provide for the future. Laziness leads to financial stress and hopelessness.

People of God must find good work to do. Work brings rewards and removes poverty. Though it's often hard to do, it is necessary for joyful and heathy living. Christians should not be engaged in get rich quick scheme because it ends up in loosing hard-earned money. ( Proverbs 26:13-16; 28:19 &22). The scheme is meant to swindle and exploit unsuspecting victim. Biblical work ethics are rooted in honest dealings and fair profits.

On Lending and Borrowing: The issue of lending and borrowing is so complex that it will take God's grace to satisfy biblical recommendations. It's good and risky to borrow for living. It's not good to live by debt, and it is very bad to exploit others when they borrow money. Debt can bring serious financial disaster and strained relationship (Proverbs 6:1-5). It even robs the grace of active service to God, and can limit the ability to participate effectively in the ministry.

We shouldn't indulge in practices that can lead to poverty. Likewise it is unwise to accept responsibility for someone else's debt. Do not guarantee debt you are not sure can be repaid by the borrower. If possible Christians that have the potential to lend others must do it free of interest, and the person being helped should not make financial commitment that cannot be kept; money borrowed should be paid back on time according to the repayment plan.

There are various reasons why people go for debt, but whatever the reason such debt must be reasonable and manageable. Debt should not be secured for a lifestyle beyond one's means. If such is done financial success may not be achieved. Unhealthy desire for wealth leads to suffering and slavery. Borrower becomes a slave to the lender (Proverbs 22:7). Instead of borrowing and living as a slave Christians must be content with the available resources and ensure they extol virtues of godly perspectives (Proverbs 15:16-17; 1 Timothy 6:6).

Build a Good Reputation: It very important to value and keep a good name (Proverbs 22:1-2, 2&9). Our relationship with others is very important, we must be trustworthy and ready to help others with our resources. Wealth often makes people arrogant and compels them to exploit the poor. But godly wisdom motivates people to help others with their resources. Those who are generous and have good reputation will receive the blessing of God.

We are called to value kindness and generosity and ensure we are distinguished as people of God. We must reflect eternal priorities and lead others to Christ with our money. Manifestation of godly characters attracts God's blessing. Therefore we must be kind, generous and fair in our business practices, and our good reputation should make others learn about God and experience His true love through  us (Proverbs:11:16,24-26). Generosity is not all about kind word and good intension, it must involve action. Christian generosity gives hope beyond this world. Lesson texts: Prov: 6:1-11; 11:16,24-26; 15:16-17; 22:1-2,7,9; 26:13-16; 28:19-22.