Read Matthew 25:14-30

Before we can begin a discussion on investing we must first acknowledge that what we have is not ours but God’s.  Everything that we have, has been entrusted to us by God to manage for the advancement of His kingdom “On earth as it is in Heaven”.  1 Chronicles 29:12 says “Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things.” 

Our reading today shows God’s perspective on investing.  What did he tell the servant who had “put his money to work”?  “Well done good and faithful servant…Come and share your master’s happiness”. God expects us to put the resources He has given us to work.  That doesn’t mean going out and “betting” on the next sure thing. It means putting together a well thought out plan that furthers the Kingdom, and then implementing it. 

“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”

Proverbs 21:5

The plan you establish should include an asset allocation target. Diversification helps to reduce and control risk. Ecclesiastes 11:2 says “Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what disaster may come upon the land.” Risk comes with investing. But, you can manage that risk by spreading your investments across multiple asset classes.

As your investments grow over time it is very easy to become obsessed with what you’ve accumulated.  The more you focus on what you have, the less you see the One who is your provider. Proverbs 23:4-5 says “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.”

Finally, seek advice.  Proverbs 15:22 says “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed.”  A good Christian advisor can help you create a plan that honors God with what he has entrusted you.  There are thousands of investment options available, but not all of them honor God.

How can you begin investing for your future and the betterment of the Kingdom?

Jeff Swartzentruber