In case you're wondering, it's okay for Christians to talk about their money. Why? Because all we have belongs to God, anyway.
Today I'm delighted to host Erik Olson, a fellow podcaster and a wealth and money consultant from Holland, Michigan. As a Kingdom-impact investment adviser and retirement planner, Erik talks about not only money, but a theological view of our earthly resources that may surprise and delight you and maybe put a fire under your seat to do something worthwhile—PLAN something worthwhile—so that God is glorified and His kingdom well-served.
Some gems from our conversation:
- As in introvert, I prefer a spreadsheet over a conversation, but I like to think I can come alongside someone and gently and expertly help them serve themselves, others and God better with training and counsel.
- The Bible isn't anti-wealth; in fact, God is pro-wealth creation. It's just one more way we are made in God's image as creators.
- We make mistakes with money when we compartmentalize it as something separate from all our God-given gifts.
- If all that we have belongs to God, we need to make ourselves good stewards of our wealth because we answer to Him.
- God loves wealth creation insofar that we make more income in order to be generous servants as well as enjoy the life he's provided.
- The biggest mistake we make with our money is not to plan with what to do with our money.
- We either pay too much attention to our money which shows we are insecure in our relationship with God; or, we ignore our money and end up with fewer opportunities to give to Kingdom work.
- Jesus was very clear: We cannot worship God and money at the same time.
- It's a question of worship: do we fantasize over our money and what it can provide for us or do we carry an undivided esteem of God over any of our assets?