Correspondence
Financial Stability And Christian Giving
Dear Brother J:
I have been reading “Personal Financial Stability” in the current issue of Ministry in Focus, and find it disappointing. True, it contains practical suggestions as to the management of money, but it seems to me that it omits what is most essential from a Scriptural point of view.
It says nothing as to honoring the Lord with one’s substance, or of the benefits of doing so (Prov. 3:9, 10: Matt. 6:33; Phil. 4:18, 19, etc.) It says nothing about the dangers of preoccupation with the getting of money, or of the possibility of making it an object of confidence, while failing to trust in the living God (1 Tim. 6:9, 17). It says nothing of the privilege of being “ready to distribute, willing to communicate (share)” (1 Tim. 6:18), which was so marked and so highly commended in the Macedonian Christians (2 Cor. 8).
While ordinary frugality certainly has a value, I think you will agree that these other virtues need to be earnestly cultivated by the child of God, and that there never was a time when they needed so much to be inculcated as they do in our day.
With cordial greetings and sincere love in the Lord,
As ever in Him,
F.W.S.
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Dear Mr. Editor:
I have been encouraged and instructed by articles in Ministry in Focus, but take exception to “Personal Financial Stability” in the July-August number. We are exhorted to be diligent in business; but the principles, “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God,” and “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also,” still obtain.
Furthermore, in the suggested budget there is no allowance made for 1 Corinthians 16:2, “Let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.”
In the Stock-Market crash of the 1930’s worldly-wise men with the keenest intellect lost all, despaired and suicided.
As those who are bought with a price, our chief concern should be to render substantial returns to God for His major investment.
A Faithful Reader,
E.M.G.
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Dear Brother J.
I read the article on sound finances in Focus, and while recognizing the need for such soundness was impressed by the almost complete failure to speak of Christian giving responsibility.
Just thought that I would mention this. I have been enjoying the magazine much.
J.W.D.