Christians and Money 101

I grew up a Missionary Kid, and I know family finance from that perspective. I served a Christian non-profit in an administrative capacity, and I know ministry finance from that perspective. I have left a poor Third-World country to seek the American dream. I know the immigrant's struggle. I served in corporate America and had to handle a multi-million dollar budget for the two departments I ran. I understand faithful and ethical financial management from that perspective. I served as a church administrator, plus my father and brother are senior Pastors of both small and sizeable congregations, so I know church finances from an inside perspective. I endured a divorce 25 years ago, and survived that financial ruin. So I know personal finances from that perspective. I took care of my grandmother in her final years and administrated her affairs. I know family finances from a Caregiver's perspective. I traded Forex and know the emotional roller coaster ride...

As a Christian and an occasional financial literacy table leader for my church, some are surprised by the fact that I do embrace credit. The fact is, I treat credit the way I would treat fire or a sharp blade. Used correctly, it is an amazing tool. Handled mindlessly, and you have a possible fatality ahead. Even Jesus recognized that we are IN this world, even if as Christians - we are not considered citizens of this world. John 17:15-16 “ I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.” To function in this world today, especially in the USA, ignoring credit or becoming ‘credit invisible’ will make prosperity and wealth more challenging to grasp and enjoy. Impossible? No! But, why dig a trench with your hands when a shovel or backhoe would do a better job? Caveat #1: The content presented here is for educational purposes and to raise awareness and should not be considered legal or ...