HomeFinance Two Habits That Spell Disaster for Your Finances
Two Habits That Spell Disaster for Your Finances
Written by Steve Kroening
Friday, 16 March 2007
In
today’s culture, it’s very easy to compartmentalize our lives. In fact,
many organization specialists say that this is the best way to keep
track of the many elements of our busy lives. Even this newsletter is
delivered in compartments. That’s because having a system works.
But
one thing we try to do at Wisdom’s Edge is show you how all of these
areas are linked. For instance, poor relationships can cause serious
health problems. And poor parenting skills will hurt your children’s
chances for success.
Well, your finances are part
of your overall world. When other areas are negatively hit, it causes
serious problems with your finances. With that in mind, there are two
habits most people don’t connect to finances, but I’ve found will often
cause major financial trouble.
The
two habits are not going to church and sexual immorality. I know that
sounds off the wall. Most of you are probably saying, “Those have
nothing to do with finances.” But they do. In fact, I’ve seen how both
of them can work together to destroy your finances.
While
this principle is one I've seen over and over again in practice, there
is a Scriptural basis for the connection. Hebrews 13:1 says, “Let love
of the brethren continue,” which means you need to continue
fellowshipping with believers on a regular basis. Then in verse 4, the
same chapter discusses adultery. And verse 5 discusses the love of
money.
While these verses don’t draw a direct
connection, it does discuss them together. And I believe the practical
connection illustrates a biblical truth: When Christians stop going to
church and fellowshipping with believers, they fall into all kinds of
trouble. And the consequences of their sin often result in financial
problems.
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In fact, in my experience, I’ve seen
immorality push people out of church. And I’ve seen it destroy their
finances. I know of one couple that recently divorced because of
marital infidelity and both of them are struggling financially. And, at
one point, both of them pulled out of their church.
I’ve
seen other cases where a Christian couple wasn’t tied into a church and
the husband got involved in Internet immorality. He soon lost his job
and put his family in serious financial trouble.
One
habit doesn’t necessarily mean the others will always happen. I’ve seen
very godly people who were very involved in church go through terrible
financial times (Job is a great example). But, as trends go, I’ve seen
a lot of cases where all three go hand in hand.
The
good news is you can save yourself from a lot of heartache and
financial ruin simply by staying closely plugged into a group of
Bible-believing Christians. They can help you stay out of immoral
situations with personal accountability and help you through any tough
times that do come along.