The Lifelong Impact of Financial Wisdom Beyond the Classroom: Lessons from Scripture and Knowledge

I have dived into many books on finance throughout the years, but none have had as profound an impact on my life as the Bible, particularly over the past thirty years. This sacred text not only guides moral and spiritual journeys but also provides timeless financial truths that resonate even in today’s complex economic landscape.

Financial Lessons from Scripture

Several passages in the Bible have profoundly influenced my financial journey. For instance, the book of 2 Thessalonians 3:10 teaches that if one does not work, they shall not eat. This simple yet powerful statement underscores the importance of work and financial investments. It highlights that my investments must yield a return, much like how a farmer tills the soil to reap a harvest.

The Parable of the Talents from Matthew 25 further reinforces the idea that one can earn greater returns on their investments, just as the servant who received five talents grew them to ten. Many of my financial investments have followed this path, while others have shown less growth. This parable teaches patience and the importance of stewardship.

The Value of Repayment and Righteousness

The Book of Psalms 37 informs us that when we borrow money, we must pay it back. Failure to do so is considered wickedness. This principle reinforces the concept of being responsible with borrowed funds and adding value to our investments, ensuring that we both fulfill our commitments and contribute positively to society.

Consideration and Purpose

The Philippians 2 and Philippians 4 chapters highlight the importance of considering the needs of others and our motivations in financial endeavors. In the Biblical context, the sequence of familial and professional commitments is portrayed as God being first, family second, and clients/customers third. While these verses are primarily about familial roles, they can be applied to financial decision-making as well, where the longevity and sustainability of one's investments are paramount.

Decision-Making and Education

After exploring numerous university program catalogs, I realized that my previous indecision about a specific career path was hindering my decision-making process. These catalogs provided invaluable information about degree requirements, enabling me to choose an appropriate university, decide on a reasonable timeline for graduation, and even identify courses I could take at a community college.

Educational Leaves and Strategic Planning

While working at Boeing, I had the opportunity to take educational leaves of absence for up to three years. Such leaves were not a mere luxury but a strategic move that allowed me to gain the necessary skills and knowledge without disrupting my career progression. By carefully studying the program catalogs, I chose an applied math or computer science degree, knowing it would be valuable to both my personal and professional life. I even managed to take a year of Calculus at a community college, which laid the foundation for my studies at Western Washington University.

Conclusion

The journey of understanding and applying financial wisdom spans beyond the classroom and religious texts. It involves making informed decisions, being responsible, and considering the long-term impacts of our choices. Whether through scripture or practical experience, the lessons learned have been transformative, guiding me not only in my financial endeavors but also in shaping my approach to life in all its dimensions.

Keywords: financial wisdom, personal finance book, biblical teachings