YOUR MONEY MATTERS
YOUR MONEY MATTERS
Now and Forever
BEING A GOOD STEWARD
JUSTUS NJOROGE KIMANI
JUSTUS NJOROGE KIMANI
YOUR MONEY MATTERS
Copyright © 2022; Justus Njoroge Kimani
ISBN 000000000000000
First Edition: June 2022
Author’s Details:
Justus Njoroge Kimani
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All Scripture quotations unless otherwise indicated are taken
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YOUR MONEY MATTERS
CONTENTS
Acknowledgment .................................................. iv
Introduction ........................................................... 1
What Does God Say? ............................................ 5
Work...................................................................... 15
Job ......................................................................... 18
Business ................................................................ 24
Investment ............................................................ 35
Budget And Saving .............................................. 53
Debt....................................................................... 65
References ............................................................ 74
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT
My hearty gratitude to Pastor Jeff Gichuki, Senior Pastor
Uzima Center Church for the impartation of grace,
continued training and constant equipping.
Special appreciation to James Wetu for believing in my
dream and giving me opportunities to show forth.
Thanks to Joshua Mwangaza and Simon Mburu for
moral support and insights.
My gratitude to the Body of Christ (Uzima Center Church
of Distinction) for being very resourceful while writing this
book.
Special acknowledgement to my Dad and Mom for
honestly believing I can do anything and good
upbringing. To my siblings, Juliah and Stephen I am
grateful for your emotional support.
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INTRODUCTION
M
oney and finances are often not given the
attention as they ought to be, especially by
the body of Christ. In my interaction with
the word of God, I have noted some money nuggets that
I thought would be great if well compiled. God loves us
so deeply; that's why He wants us to handle money
prudently and in a way beneficial to our generations. He
has opened a window for us to order our finances, and
this book will help us. Please take this advantage to learn
what God says about your money and manage it HIS
WAY!
When people handle earthly riches properly
according to principles outlined in the Bible, they are
counted ad faithful. They are entrusted even with the
hidden wealth in the Kingdom of God; therefore, if you have
not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to
your trust the true riches? (Luke 6:11). To a greater extent,
handling your money impacts your fellowship with God
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and ultimately determines your overall success. The body
of Christ needs to understand the availability of earth's
resources and the importance of properly managing
these resources so that God's will and purpose may be
made manifest with excellence.
In 2020 and 2021, the Whole world was
destabilized by the Covid-19 virus, and the world's
economy was shaken. To ensure that the virus does not
spread rapidly, the government imposed some measures,
including restrictions on movements, a dusk to dawn
curfew, school closure, and gathering restrictions. In
some instances, employees were encouraged to work
from home. The guideline lasted for close to one year,
and the people experienced severe economic hardship.
People would not work customarily exposed many
problems, and one obvious thing is that there is an urgent
need for a Godly council for managing money.
Also noted in many African countries, the
economic winds, rain, and floods caused by political,
social, and environmental factors have been gathering
against individuals' financial capacities unprecedented in
generations. Therefore, it is prudent to build our money
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houses on the principle of rock found in the Bible. In
Mathew 7:24-27, Jesus says, 'These words I speak to you are
not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to
your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to
build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like
a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. Rain poured
down, the river flooded, and a tornado hit—but nothing moved that
house. It was fixed to the rock. But if you just use my words in
Bible studies and don't work them into your life, you are like a
stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach. When a
storm rolled in, and the waves came up, it collapsed like a house of
cards.' (Message Bible). Amazingly knowing is half the
solution and the other half acting about that Knowledge.
I have learned something under the sun; God works
from Ignorance to Knowledge to Revelation to
Manifestation.
Jesus talked so much about money and resources;
16 of the 38 parables are concerned about money and
possession. Jesus talked about money more than any
other subject. The Bible has around 500 verses about
faith, nearly 500 verses about prayer but more than 2,300
verses about money and procession. In his book
'Restructuring Your Money,' Apostle David Juma attests that
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if you want to check how people are doing spiritually,
consider how they manage their finances. The Lord has
said a lot about Money because He wants you and me to
know His perspective in this critical area. He dealt with
money matters because YOUR MONEY MATTERS.
Mike Murdock in his book How to Turn your
Mistakes into Miracle states that 'This Is A Human World.
You will find that mistakes are just a part of your daily
life. Mistakes happen on the job, in your choice of friends
and even in financial decisions. Though some mistakes
can be devastating, the majority of your mistakes can be
turned around for your good! Yesterday's failure can
become today's success.' This book aims at ensuring that
the failure in your financial decisions yesterday becomes
your strength for tomorrow.
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WHAT DOES GOD SAY?
T
he Bible has a vast emphasis on money. Why?
Money Matters. To have a healthy diet, good
accommodation, and clothing, some form of
currency will be needed. Wanting money is not wrong,
as God desires to bless His Man in accordance with His
riches. But humans are undoubtedly bad at desiring
modest amounts, especially regarding money. The Lord
is pleased when we exercise wise and faithful
stewardship. The prodigal son wasted his inheritance
(Luke 15:11-13), but wise Christians use informed
decision-making in spending money. Budgeting well
helps you to give abundantly to the Lord's work. The
goal is to be a wise steward of both our time and lives to
the glory of God. God knows man's quest the Money
and the impact of the same, and that's why He has given
humanity ample direction on how to navigate the matter.
This chapter will expound on some Biblical teaching on
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money matters that form the entire book's basis and
foundation.
We learn valuable facts from the letter of James to
the twelve tribes of Israel scattered among the nations.
James addressed the concern that some believers had
while going through trials, wondering whether God was
tempting them. In James 1:13, James assures believers
that God does not tempt anyone. God is the holy Creator
of all that is good, with no hint of darkness or fickleness.
He will always be characterized by his goodness, both
concerning his character and his relentless desire to give
good gifts to his children.
Every good gift and perfect gift comes from above and
comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no
variation or shadow of turning (James 1:17).
The word "gift" denotes the act of giving. The
emphasis is on the Giver. God is the author of each and
every good gift, including money and riches. God always
gives based on His character. He does not stop giving to
us just because we fail Him or are far from Him. This
justifies that every good and perfect gift to everyone is
from God. God gives us based on His character and not
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on our character. God blesses humanity based on the
riches of His mercy and faithfulness.
The word "perfect" means good of an intrinsic
value, having all that is required and is desirable. God's
gifts to us are good because they come from His
character and goodness. Because He is God, His gifts
never lose their intrinsic value. God does not stop giving
to us when we fail Him. To express how the gifts of God
are good, the author of Proverbs says that the blessing of
God brings wealth without no pain or sorrow with it
(Proverbs 10:22). This could imply that in case riches get
sorrow or painful toil in an unworthy manner are not a
perfect gift from the Father, and the person needs to seek
a godly council that can transform and reform.
Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, but he
who gathers by labor will increase (Proverb 13:11).
We note the word "gift" is mentioned twice, and
the two have a different meanings. The second "gift"
refers to the riches given fort; bounty or benefaction.
This emphasizes God's generosity in giving to us. God is
the Giver and a generous source of "perfect" gifts. The
word "every" emphasizes the all-inclusive nature of
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God's propensity to give. Whether spiritual, physical, or
social, everything that God gives is "perfect" and brings
glory to Him alone. We also learn that the perfect gift
comes from above- the act of grace. And now that the
ideal gifts and money are from the person of God should
be well managed and used in a worthy manner and in a
way that they return glory to God. We also are not worth
God's perfect gift; hence we ought to seek His direction,
favor, and mercy.
The "Father of Lights" refers to God of Creation,
the Creator of the heavenly sources of light and
illumination, the sun, moon, and stars- implying the
Father's capacity to make that which was not as to be.
"Father of Light" could also suggest the light of reason
and conscience; the light of His Law; the light of
prophecy shining in a dark place, the light of the Gospel
shining throughout the world, and the light of the Holy
Ghost shining in our hearts and still the light of the
heavenly city; it is in accordance to His light that He gives
the perfect gifts.
And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He
who gives you the power to get wealth, that He may establish His
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covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day
(Deuteronomy 8:18).
The book of Deuteronomy begins by saying,
"These are the words which Moses spoke to all Israel
beyond the Jordan in the wilderness. In the fortieth year,
in the eleventh month, on the first day of the month,
Moses spoke to the children of Israel according to all that
Yahweh had given him in commandment to them.
Majorly God was preparing the children of Israel to
inherit the promised land, a land of milk and honey.
Moses implores the children of Israel not to forget God
even as all is getting well for them. At all times, God
demands that we focus on Him without deviating; there
is a force directing us to focus on the blessing that we
must all overcome!
Duet 8:18 implores us to remember God, for He
is the one who accords power to make wealth. "Wealth"
in this context may imply but is not limited to riches,
wisdom, understanding, skill, bodily strength, and health;
in one way or the other, this translates to physical wealth.
At all times, we must remember that God brings power
to purpose. Though men may have seeming
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opportunities for getting wealth, may have capacities for
the management of business for its acquisition, and may
not be wanting in diligence and industry, yet may not
attain wealth; it is the blessing of God that makes rich.
It is imperative to appreciate that wealth is a
blessing from God; it could be according to His promises
or reward for Human faithfulness and obedience.
Both riches and honor come from You, And You reign overall. In
Your hand is power and might; In Your hand, it is to make
significant and give strength to all (1 Chronicle 29:12).
The understanding of the fact that wealth, riches,
and honor would help us to order our priorities as we
persuade money and prosperity. The Bible clarifies that
we must seek thy Kingdom first, and all other things will
be given (Mathew 6:33). It is for us to seek the righteous
counsel of God and for Him to provide us with all things
that pertain to livelihood and spirituality.
This power of making wealth mentioned in
Deuteronomy 8:18 could also imply time and chances,
talents and gifts. God has something for everyone in the
store; the more we seek Him, the more this becomes
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clear, and the more we align in the eternal purposes, we
must be in Him to discover what is in Him. In these
times of globalization, discovery and technology, talents
and divine capability are the most distinguishing factors.
We need God to get a clear picture of our distinct
qualities. Indeed, the race is not for the swift nor the
bread for the wise, but time and chances happen to all
(Ecclesiastes 9:11).
Command those who are rich in this present age not to be
haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God,
who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they
be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up
for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they
may lay hold on eternal life (1 Timothy 6:17-19)
Being rich in this world is wholly different from
being rich towards God. Nothing is more uncertain than
worldly wealth; from the case of Job, we learn not to put
our trust in the riches but in God, the author and finisher
of life.
Do not overwork to be rich; Because of your understanding, cease!
Will you set your eyes on that which is not? Riches certainly make
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themselves wings; They fly away like an eagle toward heaven
(Proverbs 23:4-5).
The Bible also cautions us against overworking to gain
wealth. Returning to the drawing board is critical as it
allows us to strategize.
Rich people must understand that God gives them
wealth. God can only give it to enjoy it wisely. Showing
faith in Christ through the fruit of love makes us cling to
eternal life as the ruthless, greedy, and ungodly people
around us look up in suffering. This learning contradicts
the Gospel's truth and is not actual science or factual
Knowledge. Otherwise, you will support and agree with
the Gospel. Those who prioritize reason over faith run
the risk of abandoning the faith. Grace contains all
goodness, and grace is the solemn beginning of glory.
Wherever God gives grace, God provides recognition.
We also learn that what God has so lavishly given
to us is not just for your enjoyment but also for you to
share with others. The words that Paul uses here are
speaking to the heart and attitude. They are related to
koinonia–the warm fellowship believers are to enjoy in
the Church. What we give to others should not be a cold
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but arises from personal care and concern for other
people.
God intends for everyone to thrive economically
as well as in other areas. The account of Genesis 1 and 2
makes it clear that God planned for humanity to enjoy
the beauty, abundance, and fruitfulness of creation. In
the idyllic setting of the Garden of Eden, the first
humans found a rich, fertile place, and humanity was
intended to prosper in every sense. God provides an
abundance of resources and means for humans to
flourish. He wants us to find provisions for our daily life.
He also desires for us to enjoy the plenty of his
generosity.
Furthermore, God's creation has ample resources
to provide all we need. However, many people do not
experience God's abundant provision in the fallen world
we inhabit. Others find their needs are met, but only at a
high cost (emotional, physical, relational, environmental,
moral, or spiritual). Then there are still other people who
attain substantial economic wealth, but this is gained
through harming others or themselves. Whatever
situation we find ourselves in economically, questions
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and concerns about God's intent and role in provision
and wealth weigh heavily on almost every Christian's
mind. This book is developed from different trusted
resources to help Christians understand God's council as
far as money is concerned. For order and clarity, this
book has divided the whole concept of Money Matters
into different chapters to help the reader
comprehensively understand God's mind and a council
concerning several matters. Keep reading for more
quickening.
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WORK
W
ork is a gift from God; according to Oxford
Dictionary, 'work is an activity involving
mental or physical effort done to achieve a
purpose or result.' The Bible's account of creation has
God working to create the world. Work is a necessary
punishment for the fallen man but rather the reason for
which God created us.
Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to
Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over
the birds of the air, and the cattle, over all the earth and over every
creeping thing that creeps on the earth."
So God created man in His image; in the image of God, He
created him; male and female, He created them.
Then God blessed them, and said to them, Be fruitful and
multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish
of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that
moves on the Earth (Genesis 1:26-28).
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According to Genesis 1:28, the first instruction
God gave Adam and Eve was to be fruitful and multiply.
God blessed Adam and Eve and commissioned them to
be fruitful and multiply while exercising dominion over
all creation. The instruction to be productive and
multiply is not limited to bringing forth children, and if
it were so, Abraham would have failed because he had
only one legitimate son. The command here was to get
the best out of what God created. God created everyone
for a purpose, and that purpose is revealed in our work
and in God's times.
God created Adam and Eve and created them in
his image, and part of that image is the image of a worker.
Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of
Eden to tend and keep it (Genesis 2:15). From the beginning,
God was clear in His instructions and expectations from
humankind. Amazingly, the Lord had not caused it to
rain until there was the man to till the land. Dominion is
exercised by working; farming the land would mean that
man obeys God in the line of duty and is refreshed by
enjoying the fruits being produced.
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Money is very critical when it comes to working;
we either get money from our work or need money for
our work. This means that how well we manage money
will affect how we work and the much we archive in our
work. When we handle the money, we get from our
work, we shall be motivated to work harder because the
results are visible and tangible. When we can maximize
the available cash in our work, we shall be able to archive
more and hence be credited as good and faithful
stewards. The test of money is real when it comes to
working. As much as Money Matters, it should not be
the primary reason for work. God provides us with
unique skills, gifts, and talents and calls us to particular
work. Although the roles might have apparent
differences in importance, our callings are equal. Only
don't overwork to gain riches, but working diligently and
faithfully ensure you give your all to your work, and all
the other things will find you.
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JOB
I
t is imperative to understand that there is a
difference between job and work; work is what
God created you and me to do in line with our
purpose in the land of the living; Job is what is done to
earn money. To some, their job and work are aligned; to
others, their job supports the employer's work, and still,
others start their work after their job. Which category are
you in? According to my observation, many Africans
start spending their days 7:00 Am to 5:00 Pm in their job
and start their work at 5:00 pm. Work is more aligned
with vision and reason for being; we all must strive to
ensure that we are not only preoccupied with jobs at the
expense of work. Work has eternal reward and
fulfillment, whereas job has more monetary rewards and
accomplishment. In places of job, there is promotion and
higher pay; in the area of work, there is multiplication
and generational impact. We must all strive to excel in
our job and work to have a balanced life.
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As earlier noted, a job's reward is primarily in the
form of money. Hence the job is very principle in this
book's subject. A promotion in someone's job would
majorly reflect the monetary reward. Therefore, how we
do our Jobs influences the money we earn. This chapter
explores some Biblical teachings that would help you be
more effective in your job.
In Mathew 20:1-16, Jesus gave a unique parable to
the Gospel of Mathew. In that parable, the vineyard
owner hires day laborers throughout the day. The ones
hired in the early morning put in a full day's work. Those
hired at five o'clock put in only one hour of work. But
the owner pays everyone a full day's wage. He goes out
of his way to ensure everyone knows that all are paid the
same despite the different number of hours worked. Not
surprisingly, those hired first complain that they worked
longer but earned no more money than those who
started late in the day.
But he answered one of them and said, 'Friend, I am doing you
no wrong. Did you not agree with me about a
denarius? Take what is yours and go your way. I wish to give to
this last man the same as to you.5 Is it not lawful for me to do
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what I wish with my things? Or is your eye evil because I am
good?' So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are
called, but few chosen (Matt. 20:13-16).
Unlike the parable of the sower, Jesus does not
give us a straightforward interpretation. As a result,
scholars have offered many interpretations. We can draw
some insights about an employer and employees; it is
essential not to compare your pay to others. It is also
important not to be dissatisfied if others get paid more
or work less than you do in a similar job. As long as all
the working conditions are observed, it is essential to
shift your attention to improving your delivery as you
strive to prove a need for better terms. Comparing
yourself with others is likely to affect your delivery and
cause stagnation. It is also critical to appreciate that the
employer has some right that may favor you or fail to
favor you; this should not be the main focus.
Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the
flesh, not with eye service, as men-pleasers, but in the sincerity of
heart, fearing God Colossians 3:22.
Paul begins a set of instructions for a
"bondservant." This is from the Greek term duolos,
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meaning a person under the command or obligation of
another. The word can be somewhat translated as
"slave," although what modern people think of when
they see the term "slave" is not quite how it was practiced
in Paul's day. In this context, bondservants were
considered part of a person's household yet did not enjoy
the same level of freedom as their masters. According to
Paul, these servants are to show submission and
obedience to their masters. Rather than teaching
enslaved Christians to rebel, Paul instructed them to
obey.
Paul says explicitly that this obedience is not
meant to be "for a show" only. Nor is it only supposed
to meet the bare minimum requirements of the master.
The precise point is that the bondservant was supposed
to work for God's glory (Colossians 3:17), not just when
their master watched. External service, done only when
the master is watching, is the kind of work done by a
"people-pleaser" rather than a God-pleaser. The
Christian bondservant was to serve "with sincerity of
heart, fearing the Lord." God sees and knows all,
including the heart and its motives. Bondservants were
to do for God's pleasure, not merely that of their earthly
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master. Though not an exact equivalent, similar
principles also apply to those between employer and
employee in a modern-day work context.
I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give
every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his
doings (Jeremiah 17:10).
It is the individual's responsibility to face the fact
that there is no hiding from God. God examines our
heart and intent; in this, He is looking for us to get the
good out of life. His reasons are honorable, loving, kind,
and sound. And when our heart is pure and our actions
upright, God blesses and rewards us by giving us more.
His Lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you
were faithful over a few things; I will make you ruler over many
things. Enter into the joy of your lord' (Mathew 25:21). In this
context, 'more' would imply promotion, salary
increment, and other employment benefits. However, it
is essential always to have an idea that employment is not
what God would offer; there is more to explore in the
Kingdom of God. Joseph seems to have mastered
something; while in prison, he served the King's butler
and baker, he was concerned about their welfare; at one
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point, Joseph offered to interpret the King's butler and
baker's dreams. After analyzing the King's butler's
dream, Joseph requested the butler remember him when
the goal came to pass. And for sure, the Chief butler
remembered Joseph and mentioned him to the King
(Genesis 40).
Strive to enjoy your job and work for whom you admire!
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BUSINESS
G
od has blessed people with a brilliant business
mind. To some, business is their work, and to
others, it is their job. All in all, humanity
engages in business to create wealth and bridge a
particular gap in the market. Starting a business is one of
the most trying things, and few have developed the
character to withstand the waves of business. The few
who have mastered the art of business are considered
very successful, fulfilled, and enjoy freedom. Business
can take someone to levels where no other ventures can.
With a lot of competition in the job market, the
government
advocates
for
business
and
entrepreneurship. It is also important to note that
business is not for those who have failed to secure a job
or have not attained higher education. Business is a
venture that everyone should consider. Money matters
on both sides of the coin when it comes to business;
shrewdness in investing your money in business and
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prudence to get the best out of the investment is critical.
The business allows people to exploit their skills,
competence, and talents. In business, hard work has
100% guaranteed returns; several biblical concepts
become very important to this study.
The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those
of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty (Proverbs 21:5).
This is a proverb of Solomon, the wealthiest
person in the Bible, possibly after Abraham. The Bible
states that King Solomon held a fortune that he
surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom
(1 King 10:23). King Solomon was made rich through
commerce, trading, gifts he received, tribute money paid
to him, and heavy taxation. Solomon would point out
this proverb to implore us to be very diligent and wise in
pursuing riches and wealth by actively participating in
merchandising.
In business, planning is very crucial, and it's a
blessing. Yet the Lord has some very pointed things to
say about the benefit of diligent planning rather than
hastily putting together something that happens at the
last minute. The plans of the diligent indeed lead to an
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advantage. Here, planning means a thought, purpose,
analysis, or intention. We are thinking through things considering their purpose and intent - and therefore
laying plans that will plan an event and plan it with a
sense of purpose in what it is to accomplish. Before
someone engages in a business, they should first analyze
the company's feasibility. One must do the product
analysis and market analysis; planning is more important
than implementation in establishing a business.
In the 21st century, people are more interested in
fast things; fast returns, fast food. However, in business,
patience is key; no one should ever be in haste to invest
in a venture they cannot comprehend. Solomon tells us
that the plans laid with a sense of purpose and intention
to live for God's glory and goals - are beneficial to
us. But they are not just haphazard plans - these are
plans set in place with "diligence." This word means
something sharp and dynamic. It refers to those who
live vibrant lives that are sharp in their focus and
intent. The root word for this referred to a sharp
threshing sled. This was used to cut the harvest - and
was sharpened to make the job easier and more
effective.
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One might complain about the time spent with a
file sharpening the metal. Business demands hard work,
after all – and that is why you must take time to sharpen
the action plan well. So plans laid by someone who
thinks through any business opportunity would lead to
establishing a business that would guarantee plenty.
When someone plans, they will have abundance and
advantage over those who have not thought these things
through well. Business planning does not negate
labor and faithful effort at a task. But it does help ensure
that the labor and effort invested leads to the desired
end. This way of living is compared to someone who is
hasty. The hasty man is the one who prefers reacting to
life - to planning it, being attracted to every business
opportunity without a clear plan. The problem is that
responding to the circumstances can have us being led
not by objective but by greed or selfish ambition. I see a
common mistake in our nations; individuals tend to buy
shares and bonds when their value is rising; the wise buy
them when the prices are low and sell them when the
prices are rising.
In all labor there is profit, But idle chatter leads only to
poverty (Proverb 14:23).
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One wise man once said, 'Dreamers and
promoters fantasize about being successful; diligent and
godly men go to their same old jobs with thankful hearts
and find success through hard work. They do not sit
around talking with speculators and making spreadsheets
of imagined wealth from a new fantasy business'.
Some men always talk of new businesses and new
investments. They are full of ideas about making money,
but their success is always just around the corner.
Solomon warned his son against the distractions and
delusions of moneymaking schemes. He knew about the
exciting "business opportunities" and "investment
secrets" of slothful fools and lying promoters.
In all labor, there is profit. Take an average, look
for a business opportunity, and diligently and faithfully
works hard even if the returns are less or the business
operation is not stylish or classy. Simple, particular, and
successful! Words are easy, but words rarely lead to
anything of value unless acted upon. Ultimately, a person
must exert effort to accomplish anything: there must be
active and not just speech. It's easy to talk all day about
what we want to achieve, but we gain nothing if we do
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nothing but talk. Instead of getting paid, the idle talker
just gets poor. In almost all cases, success comes only to
those who dare to start. Done is better than perfect
because perfect never gets done.
And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two,
Mathew 5:41
Go a little further. Always do more than
anticipated and expected. Surprise others by paying
attention to the little things that others don't. Be
different. A principle that helps build a life and build a
business is the principle of going the second mile. Good
companies develop a second-mile mentality. Jesus
himself gives this principle in Matthew 5:41. Jesus gives
this principle to his followers as a way for them to
separate themselves from the culture in which they were
living to help others to see Him more clearly. In business,
we also need to separate ourselves so that others can see
our business more clearly. Too many companies expect
second-mile results without giving second-mile effort. It
is always a good idea to do more than expected. Every
person would be wise to cultivate a second-mile
mentality throughout their business.
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In business, especially customer service, "going
the extra mile" is an old expression. It describes
individuals who provide excellent customer service,
whether over the phone, in person, or via email. It comes
down to doing more than is expected, try a little more
complex, and going above the norm. This is an excellent
concept for customer service and is further enhanced by
the saying, "There are no traffic jams along the extra
mile." This is a terrific metaphor that can be used in
various ways and is especially applicable to the business
world or service industry, precisely the concept of the
overall customer experience. Going the extra mile is
about going above and beyond and getting more than
you thought you were paying for or expecting.
At all times, customers want to know exactly what
to expect and want to know that whenever
communication is done with them, it will be the same
positive experience. The simplest way to build
consistency for the customers is to develop character
within the business and how the company relates and
communicates with the clients. This is usually achieved
through constant pieces of training on customer
relations competency. Additionally, every person
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engaging in business should strive to know their
customers; significant interactions begin with knowing
what your customers want and need. Customers love the
personalization and attention accorded to them.
Customers also feel special when the business person
knows them by names and probably their routine wants.
I noted something worth noting, in January 2022, I
shifted from Kahawa Sukari, Thika Road, where I used
to reside, to Nairobi Eastlands.
One of my main tasks was identifying a shop near
my residence where I would be getting a few items
tentatively daily. The first shop I got frustrated me
because the attendant was slow, and the small shop
seemed crowded at all times. With that frustration, I
decided to look for another shop, of which I got one that
was a bit far from the previous one, but the preference
was short-lived. Even before the first week was over, one
evening, I got out to look for some items, and because I
felt exhausted, I preferred to go to the shop that was
near, assuming the previous frustration. To my surprise
and excitement, the shop attendant had mastered my
name and had a rough idea of the items I needed. He
called me by name and asked me which brand and size
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of milk I would want. I felt valued and appreciated, my
previous frustration faded away, and that shop has been
my preference since then. In addition, the shop operates
even late at night which favors me a lot due to the nature
of my career's operation. When customers use Mpesa
and other cashless payment methods, it is easier for
business persons to get the clients' names. That plays a
significant role in customer service.
Now to Him who can do exceedingly abundantly above all that
we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,
Ephesians 3:20
God can do anything, you know- far more than
you could ever imagine or guess or request in your
wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but
by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within
us. Dream Big Impossible Dreams. Set big spiritual goals.
Stretch yourself and your team. Find new ways to look at
old problems. Embrace belief. Pray big prayers and
expect more significant answers. Everything great starts
with a dream. The world is better when people dream big
and believe that impossible things can happen. Challenge
yourself to ask "what if" questions and use your
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imagination to see the world in new and different ways.
People desire to be with leaders and organizations who
have big visions. Dream big and ask God to do more
than you ask or dream. A big idea inspires and attracts.
Supersize your thoughts and your beliefs.
God's purposes are more significant than ours.
His ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our
thoughts. He is God; we are not. So, there are infinite
ways He does things we don't know to ask for. He knows
us better than we know ourselves. This should cause us
to dream big, have faith that whatever business we are
engaged in today is not final, and in no way define our
ending because our ending is luminous. In Kenya, we
have great icons who started as small business people,
some selling charcoal, some practicing as peasant farmers
but ended up being great people who have accumulated
significant wealth.
Finally, in business, I realized that you do not have
to be more clever than everyone else; you need to be
more disciplined. Discipline to re-invest the returns,
consistency, and ensuring that you are available when it
is anticipated that your customer would need you is
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paramount. As you build on strategies, ensure you teach
some disciplines. It is also essential that business people
know that no matter how talented, knowledgeable, more
excellent, or rich someone is, some things take time. Be
aggressively successful!
In all strive to make a difference, ‘the Lord also
orders our steps to bring us to a place of full productivity
and fullness of life. Human beings tend to settle at small
achievements and have to be challenged to go for the full
blessing and potential’ (Gichuki, 2008). Weather in job
or business ensure you get the best out of yourself. To
archive extra ordinary results we must in extra ordinary
efforts and faith in what we do.
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INVESTMENT
T
hroughout the Bible, Investing and creating
wealth are mentioned hundreds of times. There
is incredible wisdom about growing money and
wealth wisely while keeping the relationship with God
intimate. God provides understanding on avoiding
unwise or untimely investment tactics that are not
feasible. When someone is wise and uses well the
resources given, little or much, in God's ways, the person
will increase even more over time. The biggest mistake is
using whatever is given unwisely and not using it at all,
and it will eventually be lost. I have observed that most
people become wealthy not because of inheritance or
luck as much as that matters. We got to use every skill
and resource to ensure multiplication. The Kingdom of
God is about proliferation.
This chapter explores some ways and principles of
investment. This is to broaden the reader's Knowledge
on investment as per the council of God and His word.
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Investment can be used in a broader sense; this book
focuses on financial investment only, an investment that
has monetary value implications.
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly,
and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully (2
Corinthians 9:6)
For the many years I have been engaging in
agriculture, I have observed that any farmer who sows a
lot of seed usually has a greater harvest. Agriculture is
prone to environmental factors; sometimes, bad weather
can ruin crops. Even then, the farmer who sows more
receives in proportion to the amount planted. Usually, a
larger harvest requires more extensive sowing. When you
invest money wisely, it multiplies exponentially over
time. This produces more seeds that can be deployed for
an even greater harvest in the future. Not all investments
may be convenient or have an instant reward. However,
the principal task remains as sowing the seeds into good
ground and tending to it well, and there is a guarantee
that the harvest will be much greater than what is lost.
"For the Kingdom of heaven is like a man travelling to a far
country, who called his servants and delivered his goods to
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them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to
another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately
he went on a journey. Then he who had received the five talents
went and traded with them, and made another five talents. And
likewise he who had received two gained two more also. But he
who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his
Lord's money. After a long time the Lord of those servants came
and settled accounts with them.
"So he who had received five talents came and brought five other
talents, saying, 'Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I
have gained five more talents besides them. His Lord said to him,
'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few
things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy
of your Lord, He also who had received two talents came and
said, 'Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained
two more talents besides them.'3 His lord said to
him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful
over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter
into the joy of your Lord.
"Then he who had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I
knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown,
and gathering where you have not scattered seed. And I was
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afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground.
Look, there you have what is yours.' "But his Lord answered
and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I
reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered
seed. So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers,
and at my coming I would have received back my own with
interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has
ten talents. 'For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he
will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what
he has will be taken away. And cast the unprofitable servant into
the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
(Mathew 25:14-30)
Investment does not have to be financial, and it
could also be; time or skills, but finances are certainly one
area covered by this concept. As the master sends these
servants out with varying amounts of money, it is
expected that the servants then invest these resources
faithfully. God was pleased with the servants that
generated a return - not because of the return itself, but
rather from their faithfulness and obedience in following
through with the responsibility He had given them.
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God has given each person a wide variety of gifts,
and he expects us to employ those gifts in his service and
obedience to his command. It is not acceptable merely
to put those gifts and resources on a closet shelf and
ignore them. Like the three servants, people do not have
help of the same degree. In return, God expects us is
commensurate with the gifts we have been given. The
servant who received one talent was not condemned for
failing to reach the five-talent goal; he was condemned
because he did nothing with what he was given. Our
talents from God include skills, abilities, family
connections, social positions, education, experiences,
and more.
The parable's point is that we are to use whatever
we have been given for God's purposes. The severe
consequences to the unproductive servant, far beyond
anything triggered by mere business mediocrity, tell us
that we are to invest our lives, not waste them.
Yet the particular talent invested in the parable is
money. This parable, in one way, concerns money; it
depicts investing, not hoarding, as a holy thing to do if it
accomplishes godly purposes in a sacred manner. The
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master praises the two trustworthy servants who
invested whatever was entrusted to them to gain more.
We should support our skills and abilities and our wealth,
and the resources made available to us. For this study, I
have classified investment into three interrelated broad
perspectives. Investing in the Kingdom of God and
material/earthly investment.
a) Investing in the Kingdom of God
We can choose which system we want to invest
our money into. Most people choose to invest all their
money into the world's plan because they do not know
about the Kingdom of God. Every financial expert will
confirm that investment is a risk-prone task. The concept
of investing is risky, but there is a way to reduce or
remove the risk factor of investing. When you invest
money into the Kingdom of God, you will always receive
a return on your investment because putting something
in the hands of God will never come back void.
Investment in the Kingdom of God guarantees returns
in the current age and eternity.
The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness, the world and
those who dwell therein (Psalm 24:1)
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To understand the concept of investing in the
Kingdom of God, it is essential to study this verse very
carefully. In 1 Corinthians 10:26, Paul says that the earth
is the Lord's and its fullness. We learn that the whole earth
belongs to God; all that was created is God's. However,
the ways/systems of the world belong do not necessarily
belong to the Lord. God has given man dominion and
abilities. The earth and the ways it has developed is one
thing. The ground is a large scale of land, while the ways
of the world are a coordinated body of systems,
principles, and plans. Investing in the Kingdom of God
entails lending money to what belongs to God and the
purposes of God entirely. Some schemes, such as the
stock market, money market, and bonds that will be
discussed later, are the systems on the earth. They are
systems to gain financial gain and are developed by men.
There are percentage of risks in the stock market that this
financial system does not belong to God.
Everything that belongs to God will always
produce a return. Every resource of the earth has been
created to reproduce after itself. When you invest your
money toward God's resources, you will always receive a
return. The earth is a reproductive organ. Every resource
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of the earth was made to multiply, and when money is
invested toward these resources, it will reproduce in the
same way. For example, people, people are a natural
resource of the earth. People produce babies, ideas, and
businesses, among other things. In Genesis 2:7, the Lord
God took the dust from the ground and formed a man,
making us a natural resource of the earth. Investing in
people is not the necessary same as investing in their
ideas.
For instance, when a parent invests their time in
raising their children, they may not agree with their ideas
about life, but their investment of time is meant to reap
their children's loyalty, respect, and love. Investing in
people will cause someone to reap loyalty, respect, love,
and friendship. Investing in people is an investment into
the Kingdom. Everything God creates will consistently
reproduce after itself. Godly people will produce a return
from God's Kingdom. The Bible is a straightforward way
of how people ought to spend their money; it has
stipulated how the whole process should be conducted.
As I had earlier stated, people fail to follow the Godgiven principles of giving because of a lack of
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Knowledge. In this world we live, lack of Knowledge or
rejecting Knowledge is the most dangerous thing.
My people are destroyed for lack of Knowledge. Because
you have rejected Knowledge, I also will reject you from being
priest for Me; Because you have forgotten the law of your God, I
also will forget your children (Hosea 4:6).
Some of the ways that the Bible is clear on
kingdom investments include; tithe, first fruit, freewill
offering and seed offering. For the tithe and first fruit,
the Bible is very definite on how they should be done,
but we should be extra careful to see to it we do not robe
God. The principle of tithing requires that people pay
one-tenth of all income to the Lord to help build up His
Kingdom. The law of tithing requires that people
sacrifice some of the material goods to enjoy more
incredible spiritual blessings. The principle of tithing has
been practiced since the Gospel was first taught on earth.
Abraham, for example, paid tithes to the high priest
Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18–20). Tithing helps people
connect to God's vision in the local Church and have
divine preservation. Other primary scriptures about
tithing include Genesis 28:20–22, Leviticus 27:30–34,
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Numbers 18:26, Nehemiah 10:37-38, and Hebrews 7:59, among others.
The other prescribed type of kingdom investment
is the first fruit, and God called his people to bring the
first yield of the first fruits from their harvest to him as
an offering. This was to demonstrate the Israelites'
obedience and reverence for God. It also showed that
they trusted God to provide enough crops to feed their
family.
"Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: When
you come into the land which I give to you, and reap its harvest,
then you shall bring a sheaf of the first fruits of your harvest to the
priest" (Leviticus 23:10).
The first fruit was designed to acknowledge and
thank God for providing the Israelites with the land
flowing with milk and honey after their captivity in
Egypt. It was a ceremonial act for the nation of Israel.
Making a first fruit offering opens us up to allow God to
work in our life. When we approach God with open
hands rather than clenched fists, it is easier for him to
give us more to work with. Giving of our first fruits
reminds us that God is our ultimate priority. It shows
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God that we are obedient to him and can be trusted with
more. Perhaps most importantly, being generous in this
way indicates that we are grateful for all God has given
to us. Other scriptural references in this matter include;
Exodus 23:19, Proverbs 3:9-10, and Deuteronomy 26.
Lastly in our list is offering. An offering is a
freewill gift. God has set the amount, but He commands
that people give something.
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap
sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or
of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God can make all
grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency
in all things, may have an abundance for every good work (2
Corinthians 9:6-8).
Offerings are given in response to the
commandment of God in His word. In giving an
offering, people plant a seed that produces a harvest of
blessings. The offering should be given joyously,
willingly, and freely according to God's blessing in
someone's life. Additional scripture reference includes, 1
Chronicles 29:14, 2 Corinthians 8:12, 2 Corinthians 9:11,
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Proverbs 18:16 and Luke 6:38. I implore you to
attentively evaluate the matter of Kingdom giving on a
very personal basis, in all means, ensure you get
Knowledge and act, for this pleases God the Creator of
all things.
b) Investing Your Money
God ensured that He had provided a complete
manual for humankind to thrive and find fulfillment. The
Bible has provided wisdom in all aspects of life, even the
element of investments. While sharing the Biblical
teachings about investing, I would like to remind us not
to put our hopes in our assets but in God. In Christ
alone, there is a promise of solid rock. God expects us to
be prudent and use what we have to multiply and grow.
We should invest not simply to accumulate wealth for
our own sake but to increase our effectiveness for God's
Kingdom. Investing is a way to multiply the resources
God has given us to provide for our current and future
needs.
Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what
disaster may come upon the land.
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Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let your hands not
be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or
that, or whether both will do equally well (NIV-Ecclesiastes
11:2 and 6).
While thinking about investments, diversification
is very critical. They are placing the money in a different
profitable venture. This principle was well embraced in
the early 1900; many people had invested in so many
experiences, land, and shares in other companies,
animals, and agriculture. In the present age, people are
minimal and preserved that they even put their riches in
one venture. Ecclesiastes 11:2 gives a clear explanation
of why it makes sense to diversify investments. Nearly
any type of investment can fall victim to a disaster,
whether it's a plague of locusts that wipes out a grain
crop or a market crash that reduces the value of stocks
or real estate. So it makes sense to put money into many
different types of investments so that a single disaster
cannot destroy everything.
For instance, the Covid-19 pandemic affected
many businesses. Anyone who had invested in tourism
and travel had a very rough time because of the
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movement restriction and other measures adopted to
reduce the spread of the virus. Also noted in 2022, the
government burned the sale of scrub metal. These have
had severe financial implications. Due to natural
challenges and lousy management, many businesses and
industries are being closed day by day.
For someone who has had all their resources in a
single venture, there is a risk of losing all their
accumulated wealth. However, if someone divided the
available resources among seven or eight experiences
operating in different business environments, the
chances that all of them would be shaken by
circumstances would be meager. It's a fundamental
principle of investing: the more people diversify, the
more they reduce the risk. Investing in 100 different
stocks – for instance, buying shares in various companies
– is far safer than investing in just a single stock.
However, there are claims that someone can earn
a much better return by putting all their eggs in one
basket as long as it's the right basket. However, it takes a
genius to figure out which basket is the right one, and
investors who try it are far more likely to lose their shirts
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than become millionaires overnight. Diversifying to
reduce risk is a much safer and sounder plan for the
ordinary investor.
Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it
is established; By Knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious
and pleasant riches (Proverbs 24:3-4).
According to Proverbs 24:3, wisdom and
Knowledge are critical in building and establishing a
house. We are always encouraged to invest in what we
know. No one should invest in a venture they cannot
correctly understand. People should strive to know what
they are investing in entirely. If someone cannot explain
it to another person so they can entirely understand it
too, they surely don't need to invest. It's straightforward
to be drawn into complicated investments that sound
great on the surface but are rife with risks that cause you
to lose most of your money. An investor must know the
level of risk taken in any single investment. Every
investment usually involves some elements of risks; with
clear feasibility, the investor would fully understand the
risk involved in the venture they are investing in. This
enables someone to make sober decisions.
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People often spend so much time doing their
homework before deciding what clothes or shoes to buy,
but the same people might not do their homework while
investing. They understand which bags are in trend, and
therefore they believe it. It could be because of the ease
of information about the movement and the 'complexity
mindset' behind investment schemes. All in all, any
successful investor must be willing to go the extra mile
in finding information.
I believe that individuals are more competent and
passionate about things they understand. And by
focusing on things that people are more capable of, they
can make better-investing decisions. It is almost
impossible to time the market. Still, we can forecast to a
higher degree– assuming that someone understands the
underlying business behind the stock and is competent
in how the company operates– how the business'
earnings will be years down the road. It is always essential
that people ask themselves where the return on
investments would come from; if this is not clear, they
will run away. Being diligent is also about being
consistent when it comes to investing. Applying this
biblical investment principle means you should
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continually invest money over the long term. The more
consistent you are at putting money into investments, the
more it pays off for you in the long run. They put in a
little money here and there when you feel like it does not
result in great wealth.
In Kenya, some of the profitable options for
investing include; the retail industry, agriculture,
transport and logistics, stock market, and real estate.
Each opportunity has great potential and is a critical
pillar in Vision 2030. Many people have benefited to a
greater extent from the said opportunities. However,
none of the investment opportunities is better than the
other, and some are just favorable to unavoidable
circumstances.
Anyone planning to invest should evaluate
critically at the chance, examine their capacity, and where
the situation allows, and give it a trial. As an expert in
Agriculture, I don't shy away from advocating for some
investment in agriculture. Money does not do any good
when it is in the bank account, and money should not be
stagnant unless someone is accumulating it for a
particular purpose. Some of the major hindrances to
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investment include lack of information, procrastination,
greed, fear of the unknown, and low income. However,
in many instances, there would rarely be the perfect
moment to invest; there is always another option. We are
expected to stand firm, learn different investment
options, and seek God's counsel in investment.
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BUDGET AND SAVING
H
aving a spending plan can help us free our
money for the things that matter most to us.
Biblical principles of money taught
throughout the scriptures would provide a solid direction
toward budgeting and saving. This chapter will guide the
reader to control their money; I have realized that failure
to maintain money creates an opportunity for money to
control you. Unless people learn to manage their money,
making more money will never help them, they will have
more significant payments. Generally, do not save what
is left after spending but rather budget for what is left
after saving.
When appropriately used, budgeting and saving
skills do not restrict someone; instead, the skills
empower people.
Prepare your outside work, make it fit for yourself in the
field; And afterward, build your house (Proverbs 24:27).
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This proverb means that we need to set priorities
with our money. We must make sure that we save
enough to cover the essentials; what we need to keep
ourselves alive and work – before spending money on
creature comforts.
BUDGETING:
A budget is a plan estimating the amount of
money that will come in and the amount spent over a
given amount of time. Successful businesses use budgets
to keep track of expenditures and profits. Many families
use budgets so that everyone knows how much money
they can spend without slipping into financial trouble.
Some people develop strict budgets recording them on
paper or a computer spreadsheet. Some are only mental,
as each person involved keeps a general idea of where
they are financial. Either way, living on a budget means
someone is always aware of their financial status and has
committed themselves to living within their means.
When believers budget their time, energy, or resources,
they take responsibility for what God has entrusted them
with. God delegated to man to take care of the earth, and
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people should always be wise to manage what has been
entrusted to them by God.
A budget is nothing more than a plan for spending
money. It includes where the money will come from,
how much to expect, and what expenses that same
money will be used to meet. A reasonable budget takes
care of all the regular and essential bills like tithe,
offering, rent, utilities, food, fuel, airtime, and school
fees, among other periodical bills. When the money
comes in with budgeting, the individuals already know
how much of the money needs to be set aside to meet
the bills coming due and how much is available for
extras, perhaps coffee, vocation, and visiting some
friends. The budget ensures that everything is planned
for and covered.
To live without a budget often leads to
shortsighted decisions: If someone has money right now,
they can spend it right now. So if they want new clothes
today and have the money today, they buy them. Then
maybe the rent is due in 7 days, it can wait till then. Until
someone gets financial freedom, they will need to
develop a plan for where their money goes, or it will slip
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out of their hands. Sometimes the money will disappear
in small amounts that add up quickly, maybe a car wash
or dinner with friends. Coffee outlets, shopping malls,
fast-food chains, and so forth are all successful in
squeezing money out, especially if a person does not
have a budget or plan.
It is observed that it takes a plan to stretch the
anticipated funds to meet all the needs. The budget
becomes a valuable tool to receive God's blessings as
wise financial stewards. Through proper planning,
it is possible to have a balanced budget and reserve for
unplanned expenses.
For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit
down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it
lest, after he has laid the foundation and is not able to finish, all
who see it begin to mock him, saying, 'This man began to build
and was not able to finish'? (Luke 14:28-30)
In Luke 14:28-30, Jesus talking about the cost of
being a disciple, gives this analogy of a builder. Jesus
discusses beginning a building project and planning for
the expenses before starting the project. He shows the
importance of mobilizing all the required materials
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before building the foundation. To avoid frustration and
mockery, a wise builder needs first to 'sit down' sitting
has much symbolic meaning; in one way, it would imply
finding a position of rest, to be set or withdraw from a
part of work. This implies that a wise builder needs to
get to a place of rest and ensure he is set both for
planning and implementation. The second this Jesus
mentioned is 'count the cost' – counting the cost would
mean that the builder first has to be set, knowing
everything needed to details. How many know how hard
it is to establish everything required for construction
work before the building process starts? I have had the
privilege of overseeing some contraction work, and I can
tell you there are many hidden costs. 'Counting the cost'
is a call to be prudent, wise, and keen on details.
From this passage, we get a few tips about
budgeting. To be effective, we do not do the budget
when we get to the grocery store or boutique, and the
budget must be done in a position of rest. Secondly, we
must be brilliant while doing budgets, knowing that it's a
matter of priority and appreciating that there is no need
to develop a budget that is not usable. It is sometimes
challenging to distinguish exactly our future needs, but
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with keen observation of our past spending and a clear
roadmap of where we want to be, it would be easier to
know where and when we want to spend a particular
income. Failure to properly plan our finances would lead
to mockery, getting into unnecessary debt, or leading a
very stressful life. It is possible to get some income, know
that we have money in the Mpesa, wallet, or bank, and
get to spend. And then things get tight and cause a lot of
stress before the following income comes.
It is also worth noting that implementing a budget
is as equal to developing one. Both tasks need a lot of
discipline and commitment. People find it easy to create
a budget that they do not implement—the process of
budgeting process starts from expecting some income to
spending the payment in the projected way. Any mistake
would mean that the entire budgeting process was not
successful. It is not easy to develop a budget that one is
sure that one must adhere to it; we need the wisdom of
God in this task.
SAVING:
There is a proverb among Cote d'Ivoire people
that translate to imply that older adults warm themselves
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with the wood harvest in their youth. According to this
saying, some of the efforts people make today will be
rewarded in the future. Saving is setting aside some
wealth today to have and use in the future. Saving money
demonstrates good stewardship of the resources God
gives us. Saving money allows us to be prepared for the
future, and being ready for the future is good and
pleasant. Planning and saving money make it easier to
accomplish goals and be more effective in our plans.
Saving is accumulating appropriate material
resources for a defined, responsible purpose. The Bible
teaches that saving money is a wise practice for many
different reasons.
Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be
wise, Which, having no captain, Overseer or ruler, provides her
supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest
(Proverbs 6:6–8).
Ants are good teachers for us when it comes to
avoiding laziness. Having observed the ants, there is the
wisdom we can gain from the little creatures. One of the
unique qualities of ants is their ability to work hard
without being supervised. They have no supervisor or
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chief watching over all they do - making them work. The
ant knows that there is a time when gathering might not
be possible - so they work hard when they can to have
more than they need at that particular time. The ants
also know the magic of storing things up - to prepare for
the times when there will be no food. The lessons for us
are numerous. First, we need to have a self-driven work
ethic. This is an ability to work hard - even when no one
is looking. It means that when we know what to do - we
do it. We don't need someone looking over our
shoulders - or standing over us to make sure that we
work hard. We are motivated from within to do that.
The second lesson is also essential for us to
grasp. We need to be wise in dealing with our money setting aside funds for times when things are
lean. History warns us that this time will come. Over
and over again, there have been lean times for humanity.
The covid-19 pandemic has taught us the same. The
wise who store up for those times find some relief, while
those who spend all they get unprepared for such times
and are at times adversely affected. I am not saying that
we should be like the foolish farmer who stored up an
abundance - and was not rich toward God (Luke 12:16–
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21). But I am saying that just like there are those
examples, there are also others where God wanted His
people to be wise in setting aside things for a lean time.
Joseph said to Pharaoh, "The dreams of Pharaoh are one; God
has shown Pharaoh What He is about to do: The seven good
cows are seven years, and the seven good heads are seven years; the
dreams are one. And the seven thin and ugly cows which came up
after them are seven years, and the seven empty heads blighted by
the east wind are seven years of famine. This is the thing which I
have spoken to Pharaoh. God has shown Pharaoh What
He is about to do. Indeed, seven years of great plenty will come
throughout all the land of Egypt; but after them seven years of
famine will arise, and all the plenty will be forgotten in the land of
Egypt; and the famine will deplete the land. So the plenty will not
be known in the land because of the famine following, for it will
be very severe. And the dream was repeated to Pharaoh twice
because the thing is established by God, and God will shortly
bring it to pass.
"Now therefore, let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man,
and set him over the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh do this, and let
him appoint officers over the land, to collect one-fifth of the
produce of the land of Egypt in the seven plentiful years. And let
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them gather all the food of those good years that are coming, and
store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh, and let them keep
food in the cities. Then that food shall be as a reserve for the land
for the seven years of famine which shall be in the land of Egypt,
that the land may not perish during the famine.
Joseph, who was in prison at the time, was called
to interpret some vivid dreams of the Pharaoh. His
explanation of what God was saying through these
dreams was convincing that Pharaoh put him in charge
of Egypt. Joseph organized the storage of all surplus
grain during the seven years of good harvests. He asked
that one-fifth of each year's crop be required from
farmers and stored on behalf of the government. The
grain was stored in warehouses in nearby cities. At the
beginning of the drought, the warehouses were opened,
and people were allowed to buy grain.
As the situation got worse, livestock, labor, and
land were accepted in exchange for grain (Genesis 47:1321). People from neighboring countries were allowed to
buy grain, too (Genesis 42:1-5). Egypt was the only land
prepared for the famine in the Middle East. It met its
own needs as well as those of neighboring countries.
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Good disaster planning can have far-reaching benefits.
At the end of the seven years of drought, Joseph gave
seeds to people for planting. Because all the land in
Egypt now belonged to Pharaoh, Joseph asked that a tax
of one-fifth of the crops produced be given to Pharaoh.
The remaining four-fifths of the harvest belonged to the
people.
It is one thing to know the possibility of uncertain
occurrences such as job loss, drought, famine,
destabilization of the economy due to political factors or
closure of business, and other things to prepare for the
adverse happening. We learn a valuable lesson from
Joseph's interpretation and management of that
situation; saving helps soften the effects of negative
situations. During adversity, the team gets more than is
needed for survival; it is essential to build up a store to
preserve some abundance. The scheme of Egypt was
well elaborated, and they were not to save just the
surplus; it was precise a fifth of the harvest, 20%. There
got to be a plan of saving that is well elaborated. The
objective of where to store, how long to save, and who
to be in charge was precise.
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Having a good, precise, and elaborate plan enables
us to save effectively and helps us ultimately to archive
the goal. The major challenge that people face in pursuit
of a successful saving plan is a lack of a precise plan; we
must be objective on the amount to save and how long.
Lack of explicit Knowledge of where to save is also a big
challenge, and this would call for robust analysis to
ensure that whoever is in charge of the savings is
trustworthy and the money is available in the time of
need. Procrastination is also another big problem that
people must overcome. I realized that there is rarely a
suitable time for saving; we must be ready to forgo
something to ensure that the saving goal succeeds.
Having a savings advisor is also an added advantage;
Joseph advised Pharaoh and helped run the dream of
Pharaoh.
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DEBT
D
ebt is generally wealth that is owed or due.
Being in debt is due to someone something
with the expectation that it be paid back at
some point in the future. Debt is a severe problem in our
culture. Everywhere we look, from most governments to
a majority of individuals throughout the world, debt is a
way of life, with consequences from mild to severe.
According to Business Daily News, by December 2021,
the number of Kenyans currently negatively listed in
CRB is 4.6 million against the total records of 15 million.
It is further noted that most of the harmful listings were
for loans tapped through mobile phones. The rising
number of blacklisted loan accounts will jeopardize the
chances of millions of Kenyans borrowing more to grow
their businesses or for projects.
Further studies show that the average 28-year-old
is $100,000 in debt in the US. The discussion about debt
thus becomes very important in our time. There are
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many opinions regarding debt and its impact, but it may
be essential to examine what the Bible says concerning
the matter.
First, I would want to mention that I have been in
a different situation where I had to request a loan to pay
for some emergency expenses or, at times, an asset that
needed additional money. The first thing that I learned
about debt is that you need to call the person to whom
you owe money before they call you; that shows your
commitment to repay. Current economic situations put
people in a place where many feel they must take on debt,
but it is essential people review this choice.
The Bible clarifies that people are generally
expected to pay their debts.
Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due,
customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom
honor (Romans 13:7)
The wicked borrows and does not repay, But the righteous shows
mercy and gives (Psalms 37:21).
No one will or should advance any argument
against this general proposition. However, this moral and
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legal obligation to pay just debts must be balanced by
such considerations as the need for compassion and the
call to cancel debts at periodic intervals. The Biblical
basis for such concerns is based on the sabbatical and
Jubilee years.
Debt was a normal part of life and business in the
Old Testament; however, it was not appropriate to
charge one another interest, and debts would be wiped
clean after seven years;
...At the end of every seven years, you shall grant a release of
debts. And this is the form of the release: Every creditor who has
lent anything to his neighbor shall release it; he shall not require it
of his neighbor or his brother, because it is called the Lord's
release (Deuteronomy 15:1-2).
Today, debt typically comes with significant
interest and no hope of it being wiped away. We must be
mindful of this when we consider taking on debt. But the
issue remains that there will likely be times when we will
find ourselves having to take on some degree of debt,
whether we like it. Hence the wise approach these times
with a calculated measure of how much debt they can
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wisely handle. Stewardship and responsibility become
the chief motives for minimizing debt.
One of these evenings, as I was headed to church
services, I witnessed someone's household items
(coaches and kitchenware) being taken away due to
failure to service a loan. The whole scenario was
frustrating; I did not manage to get more information
about the same, but the general feeling was not friendly.
In the news, I have seen severally people harming each
other because of the failure to repay borrowed wealth.
Why Do People Take Loans?
People borrow money for different reasons. Some
reasons are acceptable and reasonable, but others result
from anxiety, impatience, lack of financial literacy, and
others lack the belief that God can provide and sustain
them.
Some worthy reasons for taking loans include
emergencies such as medical bills. Initially, loans should
only be taken in case of unforeseen circumstances. Still,
it is also prudent to take the loan for education, business,
and investments and assets only when you are confident
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that you have a reliable source of money that is just
enough to service the loan as per the agreement terms.
Such situations still call for enough research and
weighing of the available options. Some things to
consider while choosing where to get the loan include
interest rate, repayment options, hidden charges, and
whether loan agreement can be changed in case of
uncertainties, such as raising interest rates or the ability
to repay the loan earlier.
In Kenya, for more than 20 years, the CBK has
retained the interest rate for debt as 7% per annum
compound interest. There is speculation that the rate
may rise to 7.5% by June 2022. Banks and other financial
institutions have not managed to retain the debt interest
rate but range from 12.1-12.8% again per annum with
compound interest. You should always watch out if an
institution offers an interest rate of less than 10% per
annum; there must be something hidden about that.
When the deal is too good, you are advised to be
conscience. Again in case the interest rate is above 16%
per annum, that deal might not be the best option for
you; the institution could just be taking advantage of your
lack of further research or your situation. Borrowing
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from friends and family is more accessible but not
reliable and may impact the relationship with the person
lending the money.
Where else there are genuine reasons for
borrowing, there are very ideological reasons. According
to Business Daily News, Kenyans have become prisoners
of mobile loan Apps. The proliferation of digital loan
platforms has not improved lives. Instead, the survey
shows that many Kenyans have become prisoners of
these systems, in some instances borrowing to gamble or
settle previous debts. The study says about 6.5 million
Kenyans are digital borrowers, with 3 percent taking the
cash to try their luck in betting.
Unless one is in a threatening emergency, no one
should get into debt that they are unsure how to repay.
No one should take a loan to try their luck unless they
are sure they are in a position to control the situation.
Due to some factors such as interest rate and other
regulations, it is only prudent to take a loan when adding
an asset or doing a business that would help to either
solve the cost of living or bring some profit. It may not
be an excellent decision to take a loan to facilitate
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vocation. It is essential to have savings plans that are
goal-oriented and time fixed.
Disciplines to Help in Debt Management
i.
Appreciate that the debt is yours and you must pay
Appreciating that any existing loan that is due is
an addition to the current expenses would be the first
step to servicing the loan. Other circumstances may
overtake that priority, but it is always important to
appreciate that a delay in service of the loan may have
further adverse consequences. By acknowledging this, it
is easier to create a reducing debt plan that is workable,
and that would be convenient. Reshaping your attitude
toward money and debt is the most fundamental change
that has to happen. Avoid digging yourself into a giant
hole of powerful interests resulting from un-serviced
debts.
ii.
Contentment
Contentment is a principle that is very critical
when money is mentioned. Contentment will help
people settle with the amount they can make within a
certain period. This virtue will also help to adopt new
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ways of living if there is a change in the level of income
or expenditure. Financial contentment is the state of
satisfaction experienced while living within your means.
It is the understanding that more material gain will not
bring you happiness. Instead, finding fulfillment comes
from discipline, generosity, and gratitude in your
financial life. When you are happy with your life and your
finances, you are less likely to spend beyond your means
to create an illusion of wealth for the people around you.
And this contentment leaves ample room for giving,
saving, and investing your money.
iii.
Adopting Budgeting and Saving skills
A budget helps separate your spending into
buckets and assign a percentage of your income to each.
Proper budgeting is likely to ensure that the money
earned can sustain your basic needs until the following
payment. Additionally, if you create and adjust your
budget as necessary, look to reallocate money to your
debt payments bucket to contribute more than the
minimum required each month. Making extra payments
each month on your debt can also lower your credit
utilization ratio, improving your credit score. Budgeting
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helps you set aside a reasonable percentage of income for
fun and nonessential expenses, which can prevent your
budget from being unduly stringent and demotivating.
On the other hand, developing saving skills
develops enthusiasm to look for extra income, gives you
the discipline to live on the bare minimum, and gives you
options in times of emergency. People should also not
shy away from using their savings to service a debt with
a high-interest rate. Using cash reserves for debt
repayment is brilliant because you will stop accruing
interest on those large balances.
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REFERENCES
Business Daily, (2021, December). A third of borrowers
now
on
CRBs
blacklist.
Retrieved
from,
https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/bd/economy/thi
rd-borrowers-now-crbs-blacklist-3647572
Business Daily, (2018, March). Kenyans have become
prisoners of mobile loan Apps, shows study. Retrieved
from,https://www.businessdaily africa.com/bd/news/
kenyans-have-become-prisoners-of-mobile-loan-appsshows-study-2195114
Gichuki. J. (2019). Empowered for Ministry; Unearthing
your potential. Loyal Communication.
Juma, D. (2020). Restructuring Your Money. 25 Bibilical
principles for your financial freedom. Radical Resources.
Murdock, M. (1997). How To Turn Your Mistakes Into
Miracles. Wisdom Key Book. Wisdom International
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MY VISION
To grow my value and capacity by increasing my
Knowledge. Kingdom truth and financial literacy will
advance my value. This will enable me solve world's
prevailing challenges and help me serve humanity as I
enjoy financial freedom. I will behave in a manner so as
to become a light for others who choose to follow or
lead me. I will trust my dreams and be the prisoner of
nothing. I will use my private victories unselfishly by
trying to create value for others. The pursuit of due
diligence will determine the options I decide to exercise
and the paths I choose to travel. I will expect no more of
others than I expect of myself.
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