In the realm of finance, the concept of investing is often associated with the pursuit of wealth and personal gain. However, when viewed through a Christian lens, investing takes on a profound spiritual dimension. It becomes an opportunity to steward resources and participate in God's redemptive work in the world.
What is Worship?
Worship derives from the word, “worthy.” Worship is the act of ascribing worth to someone or something. Singing praise on a Sunday morning is worship, wearing the jersey of your favorite player can be an act of worship, and posting about the amazing tacos you just had is also worship. Financial investing should also be considered an act of worship.
The goal of investing is not merely to gain a return (if that is your goal then stop reading). The purpose of investing is to responsibly manage the resources entrusted to us by the Lord and utilize them in ways that bring glory to Him.
Many Christians can make the mistake of investing in whatever yields the most return and then giving a percentage to “missions” and/or the church. And while that structure may not be morally wrong, there may be a better way to glorify God with your resources. The Lord not only cares about what we worship but how we worship.
Investing as an Act of Worship
All throughout the beginning of the Old Testament, the Lord is not only telling His people what to worship, but how to worship. Investing itself is an act of worship. It is ascribing worth to the company or product that is being supported. Investing as worship provides an avenue to support companies and initiatives that align with Christian values.
By directing investments towards businesses promoting social justice, environmental stewardship, and ethical practices, Christians can fulfill the creation mandate and foster human flourishing. By supporting organizations that serve the marginalized, advance education, or spread the Gospel, we participate in God's redemptive work and promote human flourishing on a broader scale.
1 Timothy 6:17-19 explains how Christians should treat money in this life, it states:
“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.”
The goal is to be rich in good works, giving and investing is a proactive calling for Christians seeking to be good financial stewards.
Investing as an act of worship offers a transformative perspective on financial stewardship. It provides meaning and significance for purposefully investing money. By viewing our investments as a means to honor God, promote human flourishing, and participate in His redemptive work, we can find purpose and significance in the realm of finance. Let us strive to invest with wisdom, integrity, and a heart for bringing glory to God, recognizing that our financial decisions have the potential to reflect and magnify our worship of Him.
