Episode 312: Why its Important for Church Leaders to have a Godly Handle on their Money Ecclesiastes 5:10 Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless. So we need to ask what is it that you really love? What gives you a sense of fulfillment? Of course we would say God - but remember in Revelation 2 Jesus commends the church at Ephesus for many things but ends saying they have left their first love. So why is this so important to work on. We are an example to our church in all parts of our lives. Any questions about handling money ethically can stop giving and crush a ministry. We can't trust both God and money - every day its a choice Money is a high anxiety topic We feel inadequate because we weren’t trained to deal with it. People’s giving pays our salary, so we feel defensive. Other people think they know more than we do (and sometimes they do). Tips to keep away from financial temptations Pastor or wife should not be the ones who count and deposit money given Ministry leaders and their spouses should be in constant communication about their finances - no hiding - transparency Do your best to be debt free - this will help you keep the temptation to get more in control. When you have less pressure to pay bills, you have less temptation to get money. Do your best to NOT know who gives what Don't have people hand you money - if they try to- refer them to someone else. Get an accountant who knows ministry taxes Always check and double check on investment counselors
