When it comes to the area of saving, many confuse the act of planning with the act of hoarding. There are both proper and appropriate ways to save and invest portions of our money. However there is a danger of investing to create financial freedom apart from God. Where is the line? It will come down to your heart and where your motives lie.

Your motives must still involve God and His direction for your life. Taking matters into your own hands and relying on wealth alone will open yourself to an ungodly lifestyle. I have met many strong followers of Christ who believe investing and saving show a lack of faith in God. It reminds me of the story:

A man died and went to heaven and when he got to heaven he questioned why God allowed him to die. Earlier in the day the man had turned on the weather channel and saw that heavy rains and flooding were coming and everyone should evacuate. The man, being faithful, said, “God will help me” so he did nothing. The waters came in like a fury. The flood waters began to rise and he was forced to the second floor of the house. He saw a boat go by and the two men inside the boat asked if he needed help. He refused saying that “the Lord will help me”. So they went on their way. The waters continued to rise so he was forced onto the roof of the house. Suddenly a helicopter came by and asked if he wanted a lift. Again, he refused saying “the Lord will help me” and off the helicopter went. The man died in the flood and questioned why God would allow a man with such strong faith to die. Who do you think sent the message, the boat, and the helicopter?

There is a strong need for faith but we need to balance this with our God-given common sense. It is a responsibility for us to provide for our family’s future. 1Timothy 5:8 always comes to my mind: “Everyone should provide for his own relatives. Most of all, everyone should take care of his own family. If he doesn’t, he has left the faith. He is worse than someone who doesn’t believe”. Pretty strong words! We should have faith but also the desire to find ways to provide for our families.