Biblical Wisdom for Financial Freedom
In a recent teaching at V1 Church, Apostle Mike Signorelli sat down with New Jersey campus, Pastor Randall to discuss achieving debt-free living and sound financial practices from a faith-based perspective.
There are common financial pitfalls that people face and it is because they are not adhering to the biblical principles of giving (tithing), budgeting, and wealth building. The common excuse when it comes to giving to the church is "not having enough money" but Pastor Randall explained that a scarcity mindset does not display trust and faith in God's provision. Both ministers share personal anecdotes and biblical references to illustrate their experiences when it comes to trusting God financially.
Trust God with Your Finances
For those who use the excuse of not having enough to give, the lack is often associated with a lack of proper understanding and management of their resources. Having a budget is essential. "Without a budget, you'll never have enough money," Pastor Randall shared.
There are cultural norms that often lead people to prioritize superficial appearances and immediate gratification over long-term financial stability. Apostle Mike encouraged believers to weigh depreciating assets against appreciating assets. A brand-new car is still a depreciating liability. Owning a home is a potential appreciating asset. He commended Pastor Randall's temporary reliance on an older, less impressive vehicle while he set more importance on owning a home.
In scripture, there is a biblical principle regarding debt. Proverbs 22:7 says the borrower is a slave to the lender. Pastor Mike shares his past strategy of buying used cars for cash from dealership trade-in lots to avoid debt and prioritize asset accumulation. Sometimes people of God need to make a temporary sacrifice with short-term financial constraints to achieve a larger vision.
"For half of the duration of time that I've been the lead pastor of this church in order to get this thing off the ground I lived so sacrificially that I lived off of $50,000 a year with a family of four in New York City." The leader of V1 shared.
There are seasons when one cannot have both comfort/luxury and the pursuit of a significant God-given vision. For those who trust in God, in those seasons, His favor is bestowed. Favor often comes to those who are willing to do what others are not and many times that includes the act of tithing still even though you have lack.
Malachi 3:10–12 says bring your tithe into the storehouse and test God in this so that He may bless you.
Tithing Opens the Windows of Heaven
There is a biblical promise of blessing that comes with faithful tithing. Pastor Mike shared a story of supernatural provision and favor in securing a larger apartment due to his commitment to the Kingdom. He encouraged Christians to move from the "US infrastructure" into the "kingdom" one through giving which he believes will lead to different outcomes and blessings.
One must use wisdom when making financial decisions as encouraged in Proverbs 3:21–22. For example, utilizing Uber Eats instead of buying groceries illustrates how discretionary spending choices significantly impact one's finances. Paying a premium for convenience versus a more economical approach is a lack of financial discretion. Surplus spending is like surplus eating, it leads to negative consequences.
Savings is also another important financial principle. Savings will be a crucial foundation for any sustainable financial strategy. "When you look at your finances you want to build savings first, that is the foundation..." Pastor Randall advised.
The four essential pillars of basic budgeting listed were: Transportation, Utilities, Mortgage/Rent, and Food. Christian need to distinguish needs from wants. Non-essential expenses like multiple streaming subscriptions are highlighted as areas where savings can be found through sharing and prioritizing needs.
There are many communities that have a spirit of competition and tear down others. Envy and strife are the root of every evil (James 3:16). The idea that celebrating and learning from the success of others within the church can lead to collective growth and financial empowerment. In the book os Acts the people of God worked together and looked after those who were in need (Acts 2:44–45).
Pastor Mike recalled having a prophetic word for the church staff instructing them to save money, which proved crucial during the global pandemic. He said he now feels led to instruct his church for the next two years to prosper and save. Now is the time to build a financial foundation.
The Sin of Pilfering from God
Titus 2:9–10 instructs bondservants not to be "pilfering" but to show "all good faith," which is connected to adorning the doctrine of God. Pilfering is repeatedly stealing small amounts. Pastor Randall likened this scripture to the financial loss to the Kingdom if a large number of Christians inconsistently or partially tithe. To stay blessed believers must steward their finances well.
The act of tithing is presented as an expression of faith and trust in God as a good Father who will provide for the needs of His children. We must all shift from a worldly, scarcity-driven mindset to trust in God's abundance and operate according to Kingdom principles. That will lead to financial freedom.
The discussion concluded by encouraging everyone to prioritize saving as the financial foundation. Learn from others in the church who are experiencing financial success. Be mindful of discretionary spending, prioritize needs over wants. Tithe faithfully as the first priority in financial management and embrace a mindset of faith and trust in God's provision.
About the Author
Jeannie Ortega Law is a chart-topping singer, evangelist, media personality and author from New York City. She can be reached on social media: @JeannieOrtega or emailed at Info@JeannieO.com
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