We usually think of financial independence as being a desirable state of financial affairs, but for a Christian it may be even more important than that. The Christian walk is often a tug-of-war with the world, but few areas of life have the potential to steal away our time, efforts, attention and resources the way financial struggle can . . . .
The Blog
Are Church Giving Kiosks a Good Thing?
I attended a missions conference at a very large church in the Orlando area six years ago and was struck by a machine sitting in the lobby. At first, I thought it looked like an ATM. But it wasn’t. After a closer look, I discovered that this curious machine was a giving kiosk.
Is it OK for a Christian to Settle a Debt for Less than the Amount Owed?
Given the state of the economy over the past few years, many people have debts they can no longer pay. One of the ways those debts are settled is through negotiations that end with the debtor satisfying the debt by paying less than the full amount owed. We are required by our faith to pay our obligations, and settling a debt for less than the amount owed can seem un-Christ-like. What should you do in such situations?
The Importance of Life Insurance
If you don’t have life insurance and you have a family that you support, today is your day. Part of preparation is for our benefit and part of it is for the benefit of our loved ones. In this case you and I won’t have any tangible benefit from purchasing life insurance, but the peace of knowing that our loved ones will have a nice financial buffer is pretty nice.
Why You Should be Happy With What You Have
What do you need to make you happy? A nicer car? A better paying job? A bigger house? The newest cell phone? Now let me ask another question: do you truly believe that these things will give you long term happiness? My guess is that life has taught you that whatever mood boost you might receive won’t last. It never does. The moment you get the latest and greatest, the euphoria dissipates and you begin longing for something else. Am I right?
How to Manage Money as a College Student
Campuses are gearing up for fresh-faced freshmen and returning students this fall. Many college students have a limited amount of money — along with limited experience in managing money. But the opportunities to spend are unlimited! Here are some tips for managing your money as a college student . . . .
5 Steps to Take When You Receive a Call from the Collection Department
Have you ever been called by a collector? It’s not a pleasant experience. I’ve only received one collection call, but it was terrifying. I was in my early 20’s, already had a decent amount of debt, a reasonably expensive mortgage, and had recently quit my job to pursue one of my hair-brained million dollar schemes. Oops. Anyway, I was 30+ days past due on my mortgage, so I received a call from the mortgage company.
Why Do Pastors Always Talk About Money?
“Why do pastors always talk about money at church?” It’s a question I’m asked every now and then when someone finds out I’m a pastor.