Biblically Responsible Investing

"In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has." - Proverbs 21:20

Investing biblically is about aligning your investment strategy with your Christian faith. It's not necessarily about specific investment products, but rather the approach you take. Here are some potential benefits: 

• Stewardship: The Bible emphasizes us being good stewards of what God has entrusted to us, including finances. Biblical investing encourages responsible financial management and planning for the future.
• Alignment with Values: You can choose to invest in companies whose practices reflect your values. This might mean avoiding industries like alcohol or tobacco, or prioritizing companies that are environmentally responsible.
• Generosity: The Bible encourages generosity. By investing and growing your wealth, you may be able to give more to charitable causes you care about.
• Perspective: A biblical approach can help you avoid greed and the temptation to chase excessive returns. It can help you focus on long-term goals and avoid risky ventures.

It's important to note that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to biblical investing. If you're interested in learning more, you can consult with a financial advisor who specializes in faith-based investing.

"A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous." - Proverbs 13:22

ESG investing is based on a worldly vision that is without moral virtue. Biblical and Values-Based investing emphasizes moral virtue in investments as a primary factor when considering an investment vehicle.

• Morality: We are called to live according to God's law and avoid activities that go against His teachings (1st Corinthians 6:9-10). This might mean excluding companies involved in industries like pornography, abortion, or gambling.
• Creation Care: God entrusted us with the care of His creation (Genesis 1:28). We should consider supporting companies that are mindful of the environment and strive for responsible resource management.
• Family Legacy: Building a strong financial foundation through wise investment allows us to provide for our families and potentially support Christian ministries or charities we care about.

"Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise! Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her provisions in summer and gathers her food at harvest." - Proverbs 6:6-8

Many lessons in the Bible revolve around wastefulness and slothfulness, warning us to be wary of falling prey to mediocrity in our faith. Apart from teaching how we should act in the world, these lessons also teach us that we should be practical with our investments.

• Avoid Emotional Decisions: The Bible warns against greed and the love of money (1 Timothy 6:9-11). Practical strategies can help you control your emotions and make sound investment decisions based on research and data, not fleeting feelings. This protects you from chasing risky ventures or letting fear paralyze your financial planning.
• Honoring Your Commitments:Fulfilling your commitments is a core Christian value (Romans 13:8). Practical strategies like diversification and asset allocation can help mitigate risk and ensure you have the resources to meet your financial obligations, such as supporting your family, tithing, or giving to charity. You can choose to invest in companies whose practices reflect your values. This might mean avoiding industries like alcohol or tobacco, or prioritizing companies that are environmentally responsible.