James H. Willis, III
Founder and President
The Willis Agency, Inc
813-948-9109
Jim@TheWillisAgency.com
www.TheWillisAgency.com
Life planning is one of those “buzzwords” that gets used a lot. It is a concept that can be adapted for a lot of different categories. It may be work, spiritual or emotional; there is a neverending “big picture.” And it is a perfect opportunity for you to be able to focus on “your main thing.” (Eph 5:15-17)
Being that I have a business, “Strategies for Successful Retirement,” we are very active in helping people achieve their life plans. (Which, interestingly, is one of my life plans.)
Now there is a lot more to a successful plan than money (ie: spirituality, family, recreation, ministry, health, etc.). But today we will briefly focus on money—What is it? What is it not?
What Money IS
1. Money is a Tool! I can accomplish goals and purposes in my life and give it to God. He uses money to do things in my life to produce godliness. (Phil 4:11-13) In other words, we should not be in control but give all ownership to God.
2. Money is a Test! This idea is seen again and again when we are money managers (stewardship). It is very clear that how one handles money has eternal consequences. (Luke 16:11)
3. Money is a Testimony. The world is looking at us all of the time, watching to see how we are different in how we handle money. It is sad to say in many cases, Christians are trying to manage finances like the world instead of their Creator. (Matt 5:13-16) We need to use our money to glorify God and His work, not for us to simply have more stuff.
What Money Is NOT
1. Money is not a measure of self-worth (Eph 2:10, Deut 8:16-18, Prov 22:2)
2. Money is not a reward for godly living. (1Cor 3:13-15, Heb 11)
3. Money is not a guarantee of contentment. (Ecc 5:10, Phil 4:11-13)
4. Money is not a measure of success. (Joshua 1:8)
In conclusion, the “Life Plan”, from a Kingdom view is a financial process that helps clients focus on the eternal rather than the material.
By making godly decisions, clients bring balance into their lives through ministry and relationships. Isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?
Caring for you and yours,
Jim