Don't Misplace your priority

Priorities are what we consider as foremost important in our life. Something we devote our time, energy, resources and skills to. As Christians, what are the things we consciously or unconsciously tag as important? And how would you rank these in your life- God, Money, health, your home? Regrettably today because of the quest to make money and wealth, it has taken many Christians to a point in their lives that they are forced to further ask themselves question like; How do I get here? How did I become this person? 

This question has made them redefined what their priorities are and of what importance do they place these over their soul. Example of the rich man in Luke 12-15-21-they misplace their priorities at the risk of jeopardizing their relationship with God and their families. 

Money- money is good and it answers all things Eccle 10;19. But when you abandon God, word of God, fellowship with brethren, service to God in pursuit of money, then you have a misplaced priority. Money should not take Gods place in your life- Mattew 6;33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Deu 6; 5 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 

Family- we have heard this saying that family is everything, but we see today that some Christians has undermined this and taken the pursuit of money and has given priority to money over God and their home. Ponder on this-  

• Money can buy you a house, 

• it can't buy you warmth, love, care and affection 

• Sense of belonging that the home offers,  

• Joy and fulfillment 

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Health- there is the phrase "health is wealth" is often attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson, who famously stated, "The first wealth is health." It emphasizes the idea that good health is the foundation for a fulfilling life and overall well-being.  God who created us said in 3 John 1:2 - Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. God want us to prosper but not at the expense of your health. 

Making money your utmost priority in life can lead to  

• Loss of relationship with God 

• Broken marriage 

• Broken relationship with children, parent extended family members 

• Infact, destroys your health  

Thought-  

• placing money above God and family is dangerous 

• Seek God and his kingdom first 

• Make money your servant and not your master 

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Savings and investment 

An adage that says ‘don't eat with your ten fingers’ is still applicable to the economy today. Savings and investment are keys to financial independence and security. Savings is the act of setting aside money from your regular income for future investment or targeted expenditure instead of spending it immediately. This can be done for various reasons, including  

• preparing for unexpected expenses,  
• Achieving short/ long-term financial goals,
• simply building a financial cushion. 

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It is recommended that 20% of your income should be saved annually. Put it in mind that as you work and earn, endeavour to spend wisely to make room for saving. When a man forms the habit of spending everything he earn, he cannot gain or experience financial freedom. proverb 21 20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up. 

In order not to eat up your savings, investment comes into play. Investment is vital to building wealth. Investment is traditionally defined as the "commitment of resources into something you expect to gain value over time". An investment that involves money is like a "commitment to receive more money later".  

 

As Christian family, before you start investing your savings, consider these few things 

• Oneness in mind- knowing each other's total income speaks volume. financial plan should not be done in deceit but collectively. Trusting each other in marriage bring effective management of finance 

• Understanding- Couples should ensure they have both understood the capital needed for investment, how to pay monthly expenses and build up an emergency fund. 

• understanding the cost of short-term and long-term investment will help couple to know the financial restrictions the family will be under 

• Financial Prudence; having a workable budget, living within your means and prioritizing needs in the family. Prov 13; 16 Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly. prudence in a Godly home  

•  Research: as a couple you should understand the company or products, you are putting your money into and understand the risk attached to the investment.  

BENEFIT OF INVESTMENT 

1. It keeps the family financially afloat

2. Allow the family to reach their financial goal

3. Attain financial freedom and security 

As a Christian home, we already have the promise in Philippian 4 19, But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Prayerfully seek God’s guidance and apply the professional knowledge you acquired to generate wealth.