Faith or Fear

As a Christian, what motivates you? Is it your faith in God and His promises? Or in your quiet, private moments, is it fear – fear of things you can’t control and maybe fear that God won’t live up to His end of the bargain? Well, friend, fear not. It’s OK with God if we discuss these things in front of Him and we do just that today on MoneyWise. The Bible is clear about the importance of trusting God for everything. Unfortunately, we still insist on taking charge sometimes, especially when fear of the future gets the better of us.

Financial bondage begins when we think and do things that indicate a lack of trust in God. He’s promised to meet not only our needs but also to give us the desires of our hearts. Bondage caused by fear may result in bad communication and conflicting values between spouses. This will damage a marriage! It may lead to hoarding and a lack of generosity. At the very least, it may cause Christians to unnecessarily scrimp and sacrifice for that elusive day known as retirement. Faith is the opposite of fear.

In Hebrews, faith is described as “Things that we hope for” and “things that we do not presently have.” If we didn’t have needs, we wouldn’t need faith. But it’s God’s plan to teach us and strengthen us in faith. So, He allows us to have needs so that we can learn to trust in Him. Make a conscious decision to act when God’s will becomes clear. It may mean giving away something you need or making a job change you hadn’t planned on or putting off buying a bigger home.

Develop a long range perspective. God rarely works on the same timetable as we do, so it’s important that we learn what patience is – waiting. Lying in an Egyptian jail Joseph understood God’s long-range plan even though he didn’t understand the timing and circumstances of it all. He had faith. Matthew 6:34 tells us, “Do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” It’s been said that prayer is God’s secret weapon. So exercise this most powerful tool that God’s given us to unlock His blessings and power.

In today’s show we also answer your questions:

• How can you help me set financial goals and objectives?
• I’m twenty-four and am wanting to buy my first home. Should I take out a conventional loan or an FHA loan? However, I don’t have a great credit score.
• What recommendations do you have for safe investments for retirement?

Ask your questions at (800) 525-7000 or email them at [email protected].

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