Being a good steward of what God has entrusted us with is part of what we are called to do as Christians. Finding godly advisors who provide Biblical advice is vital to this. Proverbs 15:22 says “Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success.” But how do you find a Christian financial advisor? There are four basic principles to consider when seeking Godly financial counsel.
1. Seek Counsel with Christian Values
It’s important to have a financial advisor with a common value system. For Christians, that means to seek advice from those who acknowledge Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This doesn’t mean that non-believers give terrible financial advice, but they are foreign to the beliefs of Christ followers. The standards which decisions are made should be based on God’s Word and His character, rather than on the world’s values, or the get-ahead-at-all costs mentality.
2. Seek Biblically-Based Wisdom
Anyone can say that they are a Christian, but that in and of itself doesn’t qualify them to be a good financial adviser. An advisor must be knowledgeable on financial planning and Biblical principles of finance. However, a Christian financial advisor should also regularly seek God’s wisdom in prayer and through the study of His Word.
3. Obtain Advice on Generosity
In order to be a good steward of what God has blessed you with, getting advice on generosity and charitable giving is important. 2 Corinthians 9:11 says “…you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God.” A Christian adviser needs to be knowledgeable about charitable giving, understand the importance of tithing, and being generous so that they can effectively advise you on these topics. Afterall, we are blessed to be a blessing.
4. Weigh all counsel given
Proverbs 14:15 says “Only simpletons believe everything they’re told! The prudent carefully consider their steps.” The purpose of counsel is to offer suggestions, alternatives, and options, not to make decisions for you. Therefore, you should always pray before making any financial decision. Remember it’s His money you are managing. The peace of God or lack of peace as a result of prayer is an indisputable indicator of God’s preferred direction. In addition, each decision should be tested against God’s Word. If it is not consistent with God’s Word, the decision should be rejected. Motives and actions of advisers should be evaluated. If they will deceive others on your behalf, they will eventually deceive you. Finally, review the track record of any and all people who offer their counsel. Just because they are Christian does not mean that they have been successful in their financial advice. By assessing all advice and advisors with these in mind, you are being prudent in selecting the right financial advisor for you.
Good and godly financial advice is available for anyone who seeks it. But prayer, wisdom, and caution must be foremost in order to select the most qualified advisers whose lives and expertise conform to God’s will for your life. As you seek a Christian financial advisor, take a look at our resource for a list of Questions that You Should Ask a Prospective Financial Advisor.
