“Moreover it is required of stewards that a man be found faithful.” 1 Cor 4:2

God calls us to be faithful with His resources.

During the early 90’s, I managed jewelry stores for a large, international company. I was responsible for the care of millions of dollars worth of Diamonds and Gold. I fearfully protected it, and managed the sales and inventory of The Company’s assets.  I remember times when my staff and I would get excited when a few “exquisite” pieces of jewelry would come in, some of the ladies on staff would hold up a new diamond necklace around her neck for all to “Ooh!” and “Aah!” over. However, there were many times when I would get an order from The Company to send some nice pieces back. I would not sorrow over the items leaving the store, they were not mine. I was the steward, not the owner.

The Webster’s Dictionary of 1960 defines the word “steward” as:

a.) A person in charge of the affairs of a large estate; or
b.) One who acts as an administrator (as of finances) and property for another

(I like the Dictionary from 1960 as it was before the time of “Political Correctness.”)

When, as stewards, we view money, possessions, homes, cars, etc. as God views them, we should enjoy a lot more peace; knowing that it all belongs to God.

He gives us the privilege and the blessing of “managing” His inventory, so to speak. If God wants us to give something that we are “managing” to His Ministry , or to a person in need for instance, we can rejoice that God is using us in the giving of His resources to provide for a need of another and we get the blessing! ( Matt. 6:20)

God brings in the “Inventory”, James 1:17, provides for our needs in life, Phil  4:19, and sometimes calls for us to “return” some of that inventory (above and beyond tithing and grace giving) Gal. 6:10

Scripture to meditate upon this week:

Matthew 6:21

“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

These are certainly challenging times and by paying attention to these three areas, I believe you can bring some peace in to your financial picture!

1. Set a higher priority on building up your liquid savings, rather than your 401(k)

There is no sense in setting aside for your tomorrow if it puts your “today” in jeopardy. First things first. In order to be financially healthy, we need cash reserves; how much is up to your individual comfort level. Things come up in life which require quick access to cash, if there is no cash saved up, imprudent choices are made such as taking a withdrawal from your 401(k) or IRA and paying all the taxes and penalties (if applicable).




2. Conquer your purchasing passions.

Yep, good old-fashioned delayed gratification. Paying interest on credit card purchases makes for a profitable  credit card company, not a profitable you!




3. Secure your income.

If you are not already doing so, it’s time to work harder and smarter than: a.) Your Co-workers, b.) Your competition (If you are self-employed). Every industry is experiencing increased competition. Be the best, stay ahead of the changes in your specific industry. This may mean that you take the initiative in reading up on “shifts” or new developments in your industry, thus increasing your value.

My take on the “appeal” to invest in Gold

Your 401(k) could supplement, but not replace your retirment income planning. Here’s why...

The Financial Media is always looking for the next “Hot Tip”, listen to Mark’s response to Alexis’ question.

You know the “Itch” right? After the new car smell fades and the tires have been replaced, the “itch” for a new car surfaces. My wife still gets that itch and it took awhile to learn to say “No.”

If you took a moment and considered  what the money you are now  spending on car payments can do for you in the future, you just might hold onto that vehicle a little longer.

By paying yourself that car payment (Once the loan is paid off), say for example, $500 a month at a conservative rate of return of 6%; you would have over
$84,400 in your account after 10 years!

When we consider that the average person between the ages of 48 and 62 has less than $60,000 saved up for Retirement, $84,400 makes a huge difference.

Something to think about……..