Part of the God’s Big Idea About Finances Series
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Having an eternal perspective helps us deal with the earthly ups and downs, stock market highs and lows, and acquiring and losing of stuff. As author Beth Moore says, “All that will matter in eternity is the glory that came to God as a result of my life. I will be most blessed when God is most glorified.” If I’m concerned about God being glorified, then I’m less concerned about hoarding, giving my kids the best stuff, being comfortable, seeking a life of leisure, or keeping up with my neighbor. The Bible reminds us of the brevity of our lives: 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.” (James 4:13-15)
Faith-based decisions
I’ve been reminded in my recent daily devotionals of how faith is so vital to our relationship with God. If I’m exhibiting faith, then I’m pleasing God. If I’m pleasing my God, then it’s easier to be content with my physical and financial position. As the Bible reminds us, “Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). It takes faith to give a substantial amount to your church or a ministry. Faith is involved in launching a new career or business. It takes faith to give up immediate gratification now and invest for later.
Biblically wise and financially wise counsel
If you rely on movies, advertising, fashion trends, Hollywood celebrities, or the gang at work for your guidance and counsel, then you’ll not be content. You’ll be anxious and feeling as if you don’t have what it takes to be successful. But seek first God’s Kingdom and His counsel. The Bible compares the result of earthly wisdom and heavenly wisdom:
For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. (James 3:16-17) All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
