Financial Injustice

Show Notes

GOD'S CREATION AND EXPECTATIONS:

God created humanity in His image, as reflected in Psalm 139:13 and Ephesians 2:10. These Scriptures emphasize His intention for His people to live justly and righteously.

THE REALITY OF FINANCIAL INJUSTICE:

The world, marred by sins such as greed, envy, dishonesty, and pride, often leads to the unfair financial exploitation of others, a stark reality that Christians must recognize.

BIBLICAL WARNINGS AGAINST FINANCIAL INJUSTICE:

The Scriptures provide clear warnings against various forms of financial injustice:

• Proverbs 22:16 and 14:31 caution against oppressing the poor, teaching that such actions lead to poverty and are an insult to God.
• Proverbs 20:10 denounces dishonesty in transactions, labeling unequal weights and measures as abominable to the Lord.
• Psalm 12:5 reflects God's concern for victims of robbery and embezzlement, assuring His protection and support.
• Exodus 23 explicitly forbids false testimony and bias in legal matters, underscoring the importance of integrity in financial dealings.

CONSEQUENCES OF INJUSTICE:

• Galatians 6:7 tells us that God is not mocked; individuals will reap the consequences of their actions, highlighting the seriousness of engaging in injustice.

CHRISTIAN RESPONSE TO INJUSTICE:

• In confronting sin within the community, Christians should adhere to Jesus' instructions in Matthew 18.
• Reporting legal wrongdoing to authorities is a necessary step when witnessing financial misconduct.
• Prayer is a powerful tool for addressing injustices beyond one's immediate influence, seeking God's intervention for the oppressed and the exposure of evil.
• Victims of financial injustice are encouraged to seek resolution through church or secular authorities and to expose fraudulent activities to prevent others from being victimized.

MAINTAINING PERSONAL INTEGRITY:

• In cases of personal discrimination or unkindness, upholding one's integrity is crucial. Psalm 41 offers solace, affirming God's support for those who maintain their integrity.
• Jesus' assurance in John 16:33 provides comfort in the midst of worldly injustices, reminding believers of His ultimate victory.

CONCLUSION:

We wrap up our thoughts on financial injustice with a reminder from Micah 6:8 that Christians are expected to “… act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God. “

ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:

• I've been diagnosed with cancer and plan to retire this year; my wife will continue working. How should I manage my finances, including $500,000 in a 401k and the option of taking Social Security now or later?
• I'm 66 years old and recently moved from my home to a rental. I'm enjoying renting but wonder if there's a benchmark for when it's wise to step back into homeownership.
• Should I pay a tithe on my Social Security income, and if so, how do I calculate the right amount to give?
• Where can my son and his wife go for budgeting assistance?

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Certified Christian Financial Counselors

 

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