DR. STEPHEN PHINNEY

#50: THE POWER OF MONEY AND PRAYER

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 18:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

God says the rain falls on the just and the unjust. For our reading benefit, we could easily say the “money falls on the just and the unjust.” I cannot tell you how many times I have heard a believer ask, “Why is it that God allows the ungodly to prosper while Christians suffer with little?” The answer is found in reviewing the end-times. The way one spoils a rich kid is by allowing him to get sick from spoiling himself. As we look around at the end-times, we see an entire world prospering, but only for a season. As with all spoiled children, people of the world only focus on others to get what they want, in order to spend it on their own pleasures.

“You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures” (James 4:3)

Typically, God avoids supporting anything that gets in the way of true dependence on Him. Money has a way of leading people away from God, NOT to Him. God uses all things to lead each of His children to call out to Him – not, his banker. Believers are being awakened to the reality that their fight in life is not against flesh and blood, but the powers of darkness and the principalities of the air (see Eph. 6:12). So many Christians today are deceived into thinking that what they see is what they are to battle. As the Lord draws near, we can be assured that our battle with the world, the flesh, and the devil will intensify. Worldly ideas of pop psychology will increase as the primary solution to our troubled minds. More rapidly than most of us realize, the questions people ask are based on worldly fables called philosophies of man. God is calling each of His children to call upon Him and He will deliver according to His divine Truth and Will.

Fear of confronting the enemy has held most believers back from boldly going before the throne of God regarding the temptations and afflictions of the enemy. God’s greatest servants have always shared an appreciation of the magnificent power of prayer and the complete victory over Satan’s kingdom available to all believers, through the mighty Person and work of our Husband, Jesus Christ.

The book of Ephesians is the New Testament handbook on spiritual, biblical prayer. Get to know this book like a handbook. The believer’s emphasis in prayer must be upon a biblical and sound doctrinal approach to this subject. The Word of God recognizes that we encounter the three faces of Satan—the world, the flesh, and the devil. When a person becomes born-again, his/her relationship to everything in the physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional world completely change. Since the believer is a citizen of heaven, he is given the power to face the enemy toe-to-toe. Scary? Well, look at it this way. Either we face him head-on or he will constantly be nipping at our heel—eating away our lives a little at a time.

To resist the limited power of the enemy, one must submit therefore to God first, then resist the evil one and he will flee. It is a promise given to us by God (James 4:7).

Because of our newly found relationship with God, all believers are marked targets for attack from God’s enemy—Satan. Where does he seem to attack first? The love of money, of course! Since the love of money is the root of Satan, I would think this would be his main area of attack. If he can get the Bride of Christ to love money more than our Husband, believers will then begin to worship money and ultimately, Satan – a simple scam from a complex enemy.

Understanding that he is relentless in his attacks, believers must embrace the Truth that the Father has given them a defense system—the power of prayer.

First things first, we must not depend upon feeling and experience as an evidence of our being strong enough to pray. The power and ability to pray boldly is to be based upon objective fact and not upon subjective feelings. The power of prayer is to be appropriated by faith and faith alone. The following are the Four Phases of Effectual Prayers:

1. Personal Reflection & Confession

2. Praise & Adoration

3. Prayers of Supplication

4. Worship & Affirmation

PERSONAL REFLECTION & CONFESSION

The following outline presents a biblical procedure for your, and my, personal reflection and confession time with the Lord.

• Engage in an honest appraisal regarding your selfishness. It is important to be open and honest with God about yourself.

• Confess all known sin (1 John 1:9). Verbalize your sins against yourself and others. Confessions take back from Satan any ground which he has taken from you.

• Extend forgiveness to those who have hurt you. Unforgiveness is the primary reason most Christians don’t pray consistently. List out who hurt you, how they hurt you, and your reaction. Bring the offender and how they hurt you before Him and extend forgiveness to them in prayer. Now confess to God that your reactions to these offenses are sin, accept His forgiveness, and tell Him you are willing to seek the offender’s forgiveness for those reactions.

• Yield yourself to God (Romans 6:13). As an act of your will (displace your feelings), yield all areas of your life to Him—spiritual, psychological, physical, social, marital, parental, and financial.

• Express your passion and desire for the Holy Spirit to renew your mind.

• Believe with your mind that the Holy Spirit will fill you up with His power—remember to set your “feelings” aside and claim this by faith.

• Now obey God in all that He reveals and expresses in the Scriptures and begin to pray doctrinally.

PRAISE & ADORATION

Walking after the Spirit is absolutely essential if we are to bring praise and adoration before the Father. When God said to enter the courtyard with thanksgiving and prayer, He was quite serious. That means in richness and poverty. We must learn to “abase and abound” as an equal gift from God. Many Christians attempt to praise God while having “things” in their lives they are not thankful for. Philippians 4:6 says: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” It is difficult, if not impossible, to pray and supplicate with anxiety in one’s heart. The way to remove anxious thoughts is through thanksgiving! “In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory” (Eph. 1:13-14). Thanksgiving and praise for what He has accomplished for us through the Holy Spirit of promise is enough to be thankful for in spite of our infirmities. Prayers of praise and adoration are simply admiring the Person and work of God no matter what circumstance we are faced with. It is crucial to acknowledge before God that we are grateful for all things, before we petition for all things.

PRAYERS & SUPPLICATIONS

Intercessory prayer is the practice of praying or applying the objective, absolute Truths of the Word of God as the hope and basis of resolving our prayer burden. God loves for us to pray His Word back to Him - claiming His attributes, promises and redemptive work as the foundation of our faith and hope that He will answer our supplications. The hope and solution of the prayer burden, however, is always based upon the objective absolutes of God’s attributes and character as revealed in His Holy Word.

Experienced prayer warriors know that using their own ideas, or words, accomplishes nothing; but by using the Word of God in prayers, the enemy shutters and backs down. He, the enemy, cannot stand when the Word is used to combat the elements of his doings. Quoting verses while praying is what puts the enemy in his place—dark places. When we attempt to confront the tactics of our foe by using our own sincerity and efforts, we will soon discover he is not intimidated by us or our efforts. Doctrinal praying should occupy much of our daily prayer time. It must be used in praise, petition, and intercession. Herein, lies one of God’s greatest gifts to us for our prayer times.

Believers have a supernatural resource of wealth and riches in the grace and gifts bestowed upon us in the Lord Jesus Christ. The Truths are ours for claiming power, position, authority, and total victory over Satan’s world, which actually belongs to God the Father. The believer’s victory over the enemy is absolute when the enemy attempts to use God’s Truth to defeat us—his primary tactic of deception.

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor. 10:3-5).

It is important we learn to pray aggressive biblical prayers for family and friends who we believe are struggling with the bondage of the love of money. Pray this prayer aloud when led to intercede for an individual.

SAMPLE INTERCESSORY PRAYER FOR MONEY BONDAGE

My dear heavenly Father, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

I bring myself before You and ask for the Holy Spirit's guidance that I might pray in the Spirit as You have taught me. I thank You, Father, that You have sovereign control over all my money or lack of it. I thank You for the level of material possessions that you have placed in my life. In the name of the Lord Jesus and as a priest of God, I ask for mercy and forgiveness for the sins of the love of money, which grieve You. I plead the sufficiency of the blood of Christ to meet the full penalty that my sins deserve. I claim back the ground I have yielded to the enemy in my life, which I have knowingly, or unknowingly, given to Satan by believing the enemy’s deception. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I resist all of Satan’s activity to use Your money or possessions that You entrusted to me. Exercising my authority, which is given to me in my union with the Lord Jesus Christ, I pull down the strongholds which the kingdom of darkness has formed against me with the love of money. I smash, break, and destroy all those plans formed against my mind, will, emotions, and even my wallet. I destroy in prayer the spiritual blindness and deafness that Satan has perpetrated against me.

I invite the Holy Spirit of God to bring the fullness of His power to convict, to bring to repentance, and to lead me into faith in the Lord Jesus Christ – my Savior. I cover myself with the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ and I break Satan’s power to blind me to the Truth of God.

I believe that You, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are leading me to claim my freedom in You and I thank You for the answer to my prayer. In the name of Jesus, I joyfully lay this prayer before You in the worthiness of His completed work. Amen.

Now, we can talk about praying for money with a biblical and Christ as Life manner.

Next article: Praying for More Money

#49: PRAYER AND THE LOVE OF MONEY

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 18:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Before we appeal to the Lord for more money, there are a few things we must keep in mind about prayer. Satan has successfully used the world, and all of its influences, to bring a lighthearted attitude and mindset regarding the kingdom of darkness. Just take a look at the enormous volume of books, movies, video games, T-shirts, music, toys, television, advertisements, the internet, fashions, jewelry, and of course, silly jesting we are bombarded with wherever we turn!

The desensitization about Satan and his role in man’s sin is a subtle, but strategic attack on God’s divine creation – His blessed children. The enemy of this world sees to it that the world (his domain) laughs him off with indifference. Always remember that this callousness is the most powerful tool the enemy has in defusing God’s serious plan of redemption. Christians ought never to entertain crude joke making, purchase degrading media products, or lightheartedly support Satan in any way. Believers need to exercise care in not assigning all of their wrongdoing as Satan’s responsibility. We must, with biblical insight, understand the limited power of Satan and his kingdom. Oppression and bondage is not a joking matter.

The key in the believer’s emphasis on biblical prayer must be based on a biblical approach to the subject. Subjective feelings, emotional desires, and fervent sincerity are not sufficient weaponry against an enemy who laughs in the face of our intents. He yields no ground to emotion or sincerity. He retreats only from the authority and power that has been given to the Christian through his/her union with the Lord Jesus Christ and the absolute Truth of the Word of God. An illustration worth remembering is this: If I were to give you a sharp two-edged sword and a butter knife, which would you use to fight an assailant? Dumb question? I don’t think so! Your logical mind would choose the sharp two-edged sword. However, in reality, when we do not use the Word of God to fight off the enemy, we are essentially using a butter knife to war against an enemy who slings a ball and chain.

“Take . . . the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:17b, NASB).

We have two basic offensive weapons to use against Satan. They are the Word of God and the power of prayer. When we put the two of these together, we have the most intimidating weapon known to the enemy. He knows he has “been had” when a man of God masters the art of using the Word of God in the power of prayer.

I pray that you are beginning to see our critical need for the Word of God and prayer. The sword of the Spirit, God’s Word, is living and active. These are not just words on a page. They are life-giving Words from the mouth of a living God! Use our words and we die. Use God’s Words, we live. It’s as simple as that!

“For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12, NASB).

The Word is eternal, just as God Himself is eternal. Just as God is omnipotent (all-powerful), so does His Word have all the needed power to defeat the enemy and to accomplish God’s will. Just as God is immutable, so the Word of God will never change. Just as our Lord is omnipresent, so His Word is always there and ready to be used in every situation. Just as God is Holy, so His Word is Holy. The bottom line is this: His Word is living, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword. The enemy hates hearing it. Jesus used it to fight off temptation. We can’t survive without it.

As a sword, the Word has the power to penetrate the life of every being who hears it, including the enemy. It is meant to do corrective surgery within the soul, spirit, thoughts, attitudes, and body of all who hear it. This is the secret of its power against the enemy. The Word can penetrate, cleanse, and change the life of those who embrace it as Truth. This is why it cuts away at the grip of the enemy. There is nothing more powerful (and certainly no substitute) for persistent, steady, consistent application of coming against the enemy. Even Jesus, the Son of God, used the written Word in the wilderness to fight off Satan. What worked for the Son of the living God will certainly do no less for us!

“Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days being tempted by the devil. And He ate nothing during those days, and when they had ended, He became hungry. And the devil said to Him, ‘If You are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread’ " (Luke 4:1-3, NASB).

The importance of doctrinal Truth and doctrinal praying is given to us by God to use daily. Doctrine, God’s unchanging Truth, is mighty in defeating our enemies. As Christians, this Truth must go deep into our hearts. This can only come about as we gain understanding of the Holy Word of God and then use that Word aggressively in our lives.

Normally speaking, I am not one who advocates following “steps” to embrace freedom. However, when it comes to deliverance from strongholds in our lives, I see a definite need for a plan to faithfully follow these suggestions word for word; they will equip us and build a foundation for our soul. The Holy Spirit will aggressively act to guard our heart against our enemies.

WARNING

Whenever we go to the front lines, where the enemy lives and breathes, he is bound to try chasing us away. We must not submit to his deceptive ideas and lies that tell us: there is no time, this level of combat isn’t necessary; these are “only” words; we can put this off because we already have too many things to do; we’re too tired, or too sick; or we are already struggling with worries, doubts, and fears which will prevent us from completing our pathway to deliverance. We need to push through it all and respond like warriors!

In rare cases, some people experience terrifying feelings of guilt, worthlessness, physical symptoms (choking, pains moving around their body, tightness above the eyes, dizziness, blackouts, or even fainting) and terrifying spells of panic and/or depression. Remember, fear is the fire of the dragon’s mouth – it is his primary tool of intimidation. Don’t worry – it’s only hot air!

Another warning: avoid becoming preoccupied with Satan and his domain. Have you ever wondered why people are intrigued with movies, video games, and music based on the dark side? One of the games the enemy plays is to create an unhealthy fascination with his work. Many people are caught up in giving more attention and credit to the enemy than they do God. I call this a “demon behind every bush” mentality. It is common for those who are struggling with satanic affliction to be preoccupied with the enemy due to their level of temptation, obsession, and negative thoughts. However, we must take special caution to keep our eyes upon Jesus. Well-trained Christians in the Word and Spirit will not fear Satan or his schemes.

The Christian is engaged in a spiritual battle, even if he does not believe that he is. Satan and his spiritual forces are on the battle line waiting for us each day. Man does not have a choice as to his engagement in this battle. It awaits him each day and there is no way of getting around it. If you are saved and have received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you are in! Be alert and sober, for your enemy (Satan) roams around on the earth to seek whom he can devour (1 Peter 5:8). Are you battle ready? SEE YOU ON THE FRONT LINES!

Biblical doctrines and money have much in common. To avoid the root of all evil (the love of money), or should I say, the root of Satan, we must have an honest, biblical view of money and prayer.

Next article: The Power of Money and Prayer

#48: THE MASTERMIND OF REPUTATIONS

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 19:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

“For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members” (Romans 7:22-23, NASB).

The mind is “grand central station” for the function and appropriation of what man believes. It is like the hard drive on a computer: whatever gets programmed in, is the instruction the system uses to carry out orders. The mind IS renewable – thank God. When we were unsaved, the sin nature was controlled and mastered by Satan himself. He was the sole programmer of our little hard drive – called the mind of man. Once we became saved, we were given a new Master (programmer) – Christ, through the power of the indwelling Spirit. Knowing this, we are given the mandate to choose to submit to our new Master programmer. In our unsaved state, the master programmer was Satan. Once Christ came, He removed the old programmer and placed Himself at the keyboard. But, the data the enemy placed on our hard drives (mind and body) remains and is in need of being renewed (2 Cor. 4:16). This is the process that the Bible calls “working out your Salvation.” It is a daily, moment by moment process that brings us freedom from the enslaving issues left behind by the old programmer.

Now, let’s address the issue of Christians living in “false faith.” When children of God choose to sin, willfully or not, communion with God is interrupted and the fruit of the Spirit ceases to flow. After this occurs, the Christian has the prerogative of “faking it until he makes it” OR repenting and reestablishing the overflow from the indwelling Spirit. If the believer chooses not to repent, the sin(s) become habitual and the believer typically begins to use his faith to produce plastic fruit – fruit unto death (Rom. 7:5). This is what develops the independence in the believer. He chooses to allow the flesh to have temporary mastery, which God has judged and set aside forever. Many believers are simply ignorant of this Truth.

The unsaved man sins out of his sinful nature; whereas when a Christian chooses to sin, he sins directly against God. Since God has given His children the power not to sin, it becomes grievous to God when one of His children chooses to sin anyway. But, when non-Christians sin, it is the enemy who sins directly against God. The unsaved man has no choice but to sin, it is who he is! The unbeliever is judged by the law, because he is under the law. The Christian is judged by grace, because he is under the law of the Spirit of life (Rom. 8:2).

When a believer sins, he places himself under the correction and governmental dealings of God. When his sin is confessed, the believer is responding to earthly, self-judgment. He is then able to appropriate his forgiveness offered through the life of Christ. Keep in mind that the forgiveness is already complete, but it needs to be appropriated by the born-again believer. Communion is oneness and oneness exists in our Spirit, but our souls can detach from the experience of oneness. This is why we just need to be honest with Christ within us, take ownership of the sin we committed, and begin enjoying communion that is already made available for us to enjoy. But, there is a leading factor that needs to be considered. God oftentimes allows the temporal consequences of a person’s wrongdoing through earthly bodily suffering, circumstances, or lifestyle changes. If the Christian continues in willful sin, darkness (which is characteristic of unbelief) controls the heart. Fake faith and reputation become inevitable and the believer most assuredly will come under the corrective hand of God (Acts 5:1-16; 1 Cor. 11:28-32).

One of the most challenging individuals to deal with is the so-called “believer” who says he has had a salvation experience, but reverts back to the world, and by all obvious signs, stays there. This is the group of people “who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no firm root; they believe for a while, and in time of temptation fall away” (Luke 8:13, NASB). The word “believe” is not to be associated with true faith in Jesus, which transforms the person from the inside out. But rather, this type of belief is that of an intellectual assent. This person does not display the type of repentance that leads to godliness, but only to regret (2 Cor. 7:10). These “believers” do not hate sin, but rather promote it. They return to their sin like a dog to their vomit (2 Peter 2:19-22). He makes a firm stand on his “faith” in Christ, but does not profess Him with his works. Like the washing of a pig externally, this person may appear to change, but that change then disappears. This is evidence there has been no change of nature or disposition – he is still lacking in true Salvation.

There is yet another type of “believer” - the one who knows and chooses a life of unbelief. This person is willfully choosing not to believe in the message of Truth. He is dead to Christ, alive to the enemy, and will suffer the same consequences God has reserved for Satan himself.

As for those Christians who speak and act, as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty, we still have a judgment to face. James tells us that the believer is going to be judged by the liberality and generosity of Christ Himself. Our judgment will be proportionate to the amount of mercy we have shown here on earth. For those who showed no mercy, they will receive no mercy. The entrance into heaven is a result of the work of Christ, but the enjoyment of heaven and its rewards will be proportionate to what the believer did for Christ in his life of faith on earth. This is a reality that Christians rarely talk about (James 2:12-13).

In conclusion, a man is justified (just as if he did not sin) by applying the works of Christ in Himself, and not by faith alone. Just like the body without the spirit is dead, so also is faith without its best friend, faith (James 2:24, 26). Jesus said that the world would know us by our fruit and fruit comes as a result of works being blended with faith. Faith starts by believing God, without having to have all the answers first. Works should be a spontaneous act, resulting from believing in the substance of things hoped for. If I remember correctly, works and faith mixed together make a solid reputation!

#47: THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF A GOOD NAME

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 19:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Click on Image: Our Latest Short-film

Praying for a good name is the starting place for a good name. But before we put our building blocks in place, let us examine authentic justification, sanctification, and faith.

The term “true justification through Christ” is much different than how most self-proclaimed Christians use it. The actual definition of justification is that of the illustration of Passover – forgiveness. Compromising, independent people try to forgive themselves without the appropriation of Christ’s redemptive justification or try to live up to a reputation they themselves put in place. Justification is a gift and it comes to us through grace, a freewill offering from Christ. It means to “remove one’s sins from someone.” It is noted in the Greek text as “remission.” Remission is the process of restarting or being given a second chance at His mission. In order for this to happen, one’s sins must be put aside or “sent away.” The Hebrew text reveals to us even a clearer understanding of this: “to place on the side, to disregard or bypass.” In the Old Testament, man’s sins were removed, or passed over, until the next animal sacrifice took place. The “sinners’ ” sins were placed on the animal and it was killed in order to send the sins away. This is why Jesus had to become a permanent sacrifice for all sin – to permanently provide a pass over of all past, present, and future sins. The Old Testament’s version of sacrifice did not change the heart or character of man; it simply, temporarily removed the sin itself. The New Covenant (the blood sacrifice of Jesus) removed sin and its power, as well as, guilt. Jesus’ blood sacrifice also changed the identity and heart of the man. In short, He made us just – just as if we did not sin.

People with compromising reputations are not only independent, but they tend to mock God by attempting to accomplish more faith, or prove their faith, by expecting fruit just because they have obtained faith. In reality, faith is not accompanied by its inevitable and expectant fruits. True faith is alive, active, and mixed with the love of God, which produces good works. Compromising people of a bad reputation profess and presume faith. The end result is a barren and destitute tree that cannot produce fruit. Even demons have this kind of faith. This type of “false faith” consists of the intellectual belief of sin and the work of Christ, instead of repenting and returning to God to rely on His promises. Independents usually focus on getting themselves bailed out of selfish behavior or use God’s promises to prosper themselves. They lean toward treating God like He is some type of slot machine. When works are practiced instead of being a result of faith, they are false works, producing plastic fruit.

Can non-Christians produce real fruit? This question demands an answer with a question. Can pine trees produce apples? Of course not! This is one of the toughest doctrines for Christians and non-Christians alike to embrace. All the “good works” of unsaved people do nothing. They may see temporary benefits here on earth, but the eternal value is useless (James 2:20). Unsaved people are in need of new life. They need to ask the Lord Jesus to come and dwell within their mortal bodies. This process is called being born-again. Once a person asks Christ into his life, the Holy Spirit comes to live within him. This process of sanctification converts him into a “fruit tree.” Now the life of Christ, through the seed of faith (Matt. 17:20) that He places in the new believer, can begin producing real fruit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23).

Can Christians be a part of “false faith?” One of the greatest controversies of Christianity is that of “sinless perfection.” A Christian never becomes sinless because of the sin that remains within the mortal body of the believer. Sin means “to miss the mark.” All Christians have the choice to sin, even though they are perfect spiritually in Christ Jesus. Even the most obedient Christian cannot say that he has not sinned as a believer. “Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17, NASB). No Christian can keep all the mandates of God, nor does He expect us to. This is why He sent His Son to fulfill the law in and through us.

Once we accept Christ into our lives, we are given a new nature, a new reputation – the nature of Christ Himself. This reputation comes with a new past – the past of Jesus Christ Himself. True authentic Christianity comes with a brand new reputation; a reputation, I might add, that is NOT earned, worked at, or acted out. His reputation is given to us as a gift. This is accomplished by God sending the Holy Spirit to live within our mortal bodies. The doctrines of perfection come into play when the Spirit purifies our spiritual nature, which is what becomes perfect in Christ. The mind and body remain vulnerable to our “flesh” (the trash the old man left behind) because sin continues to reside in our bodies and persists in affecting our minds. We are given the power to resist indwelling sin (our old reputation) and choose life coming through our new spiritual nature. This is why we are called to “put off the old self and put on the new” (Eph. 4:22). When sin, flesh, decides to raise its ugly head through the body (Rom. 7:23) by way of the mind, we are to “consider ourselves dead to sin and our old reputation, but alive to God in Christ Jesus” and His reputation (Rom. 6:11).

In our next blog, we will carefully review the authentic process of becoming a person of an authentic reputation – that of Christ Jesus.

#46: THE DESTRUCTION OF A GOOD NAME

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 19:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Usually when we think of a man losing his reputation, or good name, we think of that man falling into immorality. Although there is a strong connection between money and immorality, in the Scriptures we find more of a focus on how a man handles his financial affairs. When I think of a man of integrity, I think of a man who does not waver under the temptation of compromise. Compromise is nothing short of settling for less than God’s ideal. The not-so-funny thing about compromise is that it usually happens a little at a time. It all starts with a paper clip and gradually ends up with stealing corporate time, i.e. faking a sickness because you “needed” a little down time. Maybe you are the dishonest one who is billing for services that you don’t plan to fulfill. Here is a good one: write-off personal expenses onto a corporate account, which happens to be the number one corporate abuse in America.

Compromise happens when we attempt to adjust our standards to our own pleasures. James talks about our source of quarrels and conflicts. Check this out:

“What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you? Is not the source your pleasures that wage war in your members? You lust and do not have; so you commit murder. You are envious and cannot obtain; so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures. You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (James 4:1-4, NASB).

James just comes right out and tells us the unadulterated Truth. The reason why we have conflict in our lives is because our pleasures wage war with what is right. We lust and realize what we don’t have; so we compromise. The basic fact here is we are upset that we cannot obtain that “ new gadget” without a compromise, so we do the very thing we hate and COMPROMISE. God wants us to see that we do not have, because we do not ask with the right motive. He loves to answer our prayers when we ask with the right motives. People asking with wrong motives are typically friends with the world. James shows us that people who have friendships with the world make themselves hostile toward God. In fact, he goes on to say that anyone who IS a friend with the world is God’s enemy. Ouch!

People of compromise are revealing the evidence that their friendship with the world is much more important than their friendship with God. The world is watching “Christians” far closer than the “Christian” is willing to admit. Unbelievers are watching to determine if the so-called believer is friends with the world or not. The unsaved person’s world is the world God has pressed in on them to leave. If a Christian is running into this place, why would the unsaved person want to be delivered from it? They ultimately see that the Christian is working at becoming a friend of what they have grown to hate. Well, what kind of gospel is that?

What good is there if a person (a so-called Christian) claims to have faith, but his faith is not backed by fruit? How can one be certain in Divine Truth? What is the evidence of pure and interactive faith? Faith, to some, is an intellectual assent to a religious belief system that mocks God. Is there a litmus test to find such pure faith? Could “good works” be the true and living proof of faith parted from Heaven? Can a true Christian be a product of false faith?

Authentic Christianity is backed by miraculous works of Christ, which refuse to compromise. A person of compromise is functioning much like a person who is independent – “living death.” The real question needing to be asked is that of independence. Since faith independent of the miraculous manifestations of Christ (Christ’s works) is dead, could it be true that a person suffering with a compromising and independent spirit is revealing a “false faith?” Independent people cause suffering in the hearts of their loved ones, because they will not allow anyone to get in the way of their independence. This is why it is easy for them to compromise. People of independence find shelter and refuge in a walled fortress and refuse to let others get close to them. They find it impossible to embrace intimacy. In fact, they find more intimacy in swinging the next “deal.” They tend to believe that their faith is a personal and private matter. From what we discover in the Scriptures, this is opposite of true Christianity. Even demons believe in Divine Truth, but their independence denies them Christ. (See James 2:19).

Could it be true that compromise along with independence is the evidence of false faith? Anyone who uses his intellectual assents, “fact faith”, to prove his dedication to Truth, might be in a position of mockery. But those who show their faith by the miraculous works of Christ in their day-to-day living are confessing true Salvation. If the “Tree of Knowledge” is the homeland of the enemy, would it be safe to say that one of his goals is to deceive man into believing that faith is an intellectual assent? Maybe the term “intellectual assent” is too offensive? What about the knowledge of Truth without the burden of proof – God’s miraculous work?

Compromising people are known for justifying their actions. Justification is the act of bringing out righteousness or overlooking one’s wrongs. If a person functions in a faith replicating true faith, he is demonstrating the act of bringing out his own righteousness and overlooking his own wrongs. The true test of self-justification is this: when we confront someone who has compromised, he will be quick to bear for himself internal condemnation and self-judgment – while giving the appearance of being right. If pushed, he will punish, chastise, and work to make others feel lesser than himself. A person of compromise usually suffers with a lifestyle of guilt and hidden condemnation. He has moments of Truth versus a life of Truth. He lies, covers up, and deceives others into thinking he is doing well. Yet all the while, he is falling into a dark hole of self-judgment, typically resulting in a bad reputation.

In our next blog entry, we will begin to explore true justification and sanctification, including how the authentic Exchanged Life will give us the reputation we have always dreamed about.

#45: REQUIREMENTS OF A GOOD NAME

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 19:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

“A Psalm of David. O LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill? He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, And speaks truth in his heart. He does not slander with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor takes up a reproach against his friend; In whose eyes a reprobate is despised, But who honors those who fear the LORD; He swears to his own hurt and does not change; He does not put out his money at interest, Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken” (Psalms 15:1-5, NASB).

Having a good name is worth more than any and all accomplishments a man could ever obtain. In the above passage, David tells us that only those who walk in integrity, do works that are righteous, speak the Truth, refuse to speak ill of others, and take up the reproach of their friends are worthy enough to dwell in the tent of the living God. Well, there are six basic requirements that need to be fulfilled before this can happen.

1. Being a people who are true to their word. Being true to our word is rare and in fact, impossible, without Christ doing it through us. God gives ongoing warnings to those of us who resist Christ’s mind (inside of us) in being True to His own Word (also inside of us). Yes, the Word of God lives and dwells within our mortal soul if we are born-again. Christ is the only One who can actually be True to the Father’s Word, by faithfully fulfilling our commitments through us. Let’s examine a few of the areas of “keeping our word.”

a. Marriage vows

b. Commitment to serving God

c. Reading the Word

d. Paying our tithes and offerings

e. Commitments made to others

f. Being on time

g. Being a person of integrity

2. Returning what we have borrowed from others. One of the most common ways to damage our reputation (name) is by not returning money, possessions, or “promises” to others. In fact, it is stealing – that is if you go by the Hebrew definition. The Word even goes as far as calling us “wicked” if we don’t (Psalm 37:21). Most people borrow without making any record of what and when they borrowed. This is usually because when we borrow, we are suffering with such urgency to obtain relief from what we are missing that we borrow out of desperation. Bad habit. If there is anything we have borrowed and have not yet returned, we are stealing. It doesn’t matter how much time has passed, or from whom we have borrowed it – by not returning it, we are breaking Christ’s mandate (Word) within us. Let’s examine the short list:

a. Money

b. Books

c. Tools

d. Food

e. Pen or pencil

f. Clothes

g. And the list goes on from here

3. Justly weighing all decisions and transactions. One of the passages that remains uncomfortable for me is Proverbs 16:11, “A just weight and scales belong to the LORD; all the weights of the bag are His concern” (NASB). This means that God’s watches us in every decision made – seeking to discover if we will be honest in all of our transactions. Any form of dishonesty in one of our decisions is not only stealing, it is sin. Since we have no power to be just and balanced, we must rely upon Christ in us to do so. If we tip the scale even but an ounce, God considers it an abomination (Prov. 11:1). The Word refers to it as a false weight or measure, which is called stealing.

"Can I justify wicked scales and a bag of deceptive weights? For the rich men of the city are full of violence, her residents speak lies, and their tongue is deceitful in their mouth. So also I will make you sick, striking you down, Desolating you because of your sins. You will eat, but you will not be satisfied, and your vileness will be in your midst. You will try to remove for safekeeping, But you will not preserve anything, and what you do preserve I will give to the sword. You will sow but you will not reap. You will tread the olive but will not anoint yourself with oil; and the grapes, but you will not drink wine” (Micah 6:11-15, NASB).

In order to avoid being desolated because of this sin, we need to carefully examine the ways we may be yielding to our flesh to gain versus allowing Christ in us to breed contentment.

a. Being late for appointments

b. Choosing the largest portion of that which we are sharing

c. Stealing from our employment (time, pencils, etc.)

d. Not fulfilling our job description at work

e. Taking things without asking – assuming

f. Failing to claim defects we caused and returning the item for a new one

g. Exaggerating

h. Negotiating a deal that puts the seller in loss of profit

i. Taking sick days when we’re not sick

j. Etc.

4. Accepting gain when it comes from another person’s loss – gambling. God not only condemns unjust gain, He causes loss in the person who plays such games. Most would be shocked if they knew just how much of the world’s financial system is based on gambling with the hard earned monies of others. Did you know that after we deposit our hard earned check in the bank, our banks are gambling it away in the stock market that very night? They are hoping to return it to our account by the next morning without any repercussions. Yes, that is what happens as we sleep. The bank is counting on the system of gambling (stocks) to be stable enough that we will never know our money was missing. Normally, in a healthy economy, it works; but in a failing economy, it doesn’t. This is the very topic in the news as I write this. Riots are presently occurring on Wall Street because people are catching on to what I just stated. God obligates Himself to implode the system that makes money off of the losses of others. The bottom line is: there is a lasting damage to any person’s name (or country) that profits by the losses of other.

“How blessed is he who considers the helpless; The LORD will deliver him in a day of trouble. The LORD will protect him and keep him alive, And he shall be called blessed upon the earth; and do not give him over to the desire of his enemies” (Psalms 41:1-2, NASB).

Here are a few of the ways that we gamble:

a. Lottery

b. Gambling in general

c. Making and selling things that hurt people

d. Manipulating people into buying things they don’t need

e. Taking advantage of people who suffer financially

f. Playing the stock market

g. Etc.

5. Don’t be late in paying those bills. Being a representative of the name of Jesus Christ reveals itself in the most practical way – that of paying our bills on time. And on those months when we simply cannot, communicate with the creditor and come up with a plan. To withhold payment is to begin the stealing process. Proverbs 3:28 tells us, “Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,’ When you have it with you” (NASB). If we have it, we should pay it. God always has great reasons for His order. When we withhold, it puts the lender in a position of being tempted to sin. Our actions can cause a chain reaction of sin if we don’t pay our bills. When payments are late, we are telling our bill collectors that our word is worth nothing and if we are indwelt Christians – it says God’s Word is worthless. "Then He will answer them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me' ” (Matt. 25:45).

6. Be sure to associate and get counsel from wise people. This final requirement is probably one of the most important. Today, most Christians do not have the ability to make wise decisions. This is why we need mentors and counselors. We need guidance to make decisions that promote the name of Jesus Christ. Remember, other people will weigh the name of Jesus Christ through our actions. Sure, we end up with a “bad name”- but worse is that we give Jesus Christ a “bad name.” Although, in God’s reality, that is not possible; but our actions certainly do affect our Lord.

Our decisions reflect our identity. With most of us, well, let’s just say we project our Savior as: a gambler, a man of debt, one who borrows and does not return what’s borrowed, unjust in the market place, one who makes a living off of other people’s losses, one who won’t pay His bills on time, and one who Himself associates with unwise counsel. Wow – that is almost too much to get my brain around! What we do unto the people around us is what is done to Christ. That might be a disturbing thought to many, but it is overwhelmingly true.

It would be good of us to examine the key factors of maintaining and representing the name and reputation of Jesus Christ. To honor Christ is to know Him and to know Him is to be identified with His character.

#44: CONNECTION OF MONEY AND A GOOD NAME

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 18:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

“A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, Favor is better than silver and gold”

(Proverbs 22:1, NASB).

The Word of God talks about four primary reasons why it is so important to have a “good name.” Also, God states six basic requirements in order to obtain that “good name.”

I grew up in a home where a good name was NOT a priority, nor was it important! We did not practice a lifestyle that represented God and we did not honor our parents, nor have a proper mind-set toward business. It appeared that my parents really didn’t care what got passed down to their children. The result was all six of their children developed a lifestyle of living from hand-to-mouth. The most grievous consequence of growing up in a home that could care less about having a good name was that our name was no good - it carried little value in the community we lived in. The only way to break free from this generational sin is to begin living off the reputation of another and this is exactly what I did. After struggling for many years of attempting to live off the name of another (name dropping), I found the right name to hide behind – that of Jesus Christ. Since that day, I have found success not only in reputation, but in being successful in my sphere of influence.

Let’s take a look at the Word and review the four primary reasons why it is critical for us to have a good name:

1. Indwelt Christians represent God’s name. The fact is, we indwelt Christians are the only Bible that the majority of the world will ever see. When we make it known that we are born-again Christians, we invite others of disbelief to test the name we represent. This is accomplished through the way we handle insults, persecutions, and distress. They will watch closely every business and personal transaction we make, in order to see if it actually represents, or matches, how God Himself would transact. The Word tells us that we are “known and read of all men.” We are oftentimes the only Bible that most humans will ever read.

“You are our letter, written in our hearts, known and read by all men” (2 Corinthians 3:2, NASB).

2. Honoring our parents with God’s name. A fact that indwelt Christians cannot ignore is that the first commandment, with a promise from God, is “honor your father and mother” (see Ex 20:12). Success spiritually, psychologically, and financially is directly related to honoring our parents. The promise from God in this passage is – if we do, things will go well with us. In other words, we will be successful in all that we do (Eph. 6:1-3). If we do not honor our parents, Proverbs 28:7 tells us that we will be gluttonous and a shame to our fathers. If I remember correctly, gluttons are not some of God’s favored people.

3. What we represent is passed on to our children. If we take the above passage literally, it is far more important to pass on to our children a “good name” over a financial inheritance. In many cases, much like myself, this is the only legacy that we CAN pass on to our children that has intrinsic value. Once we get to the ripe age of 50, we begin to realize that most of our lives were either fighting against our parents’ reputations or gaining the blessings that came with their “good name.” Proverbs 10:7 tells us, “The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot” (NASB). The rotting process I am referring to is the warring we do in fighting off the consequences of the bad or corrupt reputation of our parents.

4. Parental reputations that produce righteousness and success. Anyone who is remotely successful knows that a good name and solid reputation is the beginning, or gateway, to being successful. One of the first things I immediately look for, in discipling individuals troubled with being able to succeed, are issues of parents with “bad reputations.” This issue is not always true, but most of the time it is and it helps me show the individual what the Word has to say about the topic. This is so they don’t pass it on to their children. However, the answer is always the same: identity in Christ.

The lesson here is quite obvious – those who do not hide behind the name and reputation of God are robbed of all forms of success. Not only that, but these people usually live under a constant strain of being in debt, not only financially, but in all areas of life. Exchanging one’s identity from self to Christ is the only way to be free from this predictable bondage.

There are a few requirements for embracing the identity of Christ and His glorious name. The Exchanged Life, “Not I but Christ,” plays a major part in an indwelt Christian’s life when it comes to embracing the freedom from having a “bad name.”

The first thing we need to realize is that there is no power in the name(s) of man – not one ounce! It doesn’t matter how much money, fame, or influence the man obtains. In fact, the more he tries, the less God gives him. God has a principle of life in place that actually promotes the opposite effect. Jesus said, "But many who are first will be last; and the last, first” (Matt. 19:30, NASB). It needs to be noted that for those people who strive for a “good name” outside of Christ, God works to put that person in last place. Power and name have such dependence on each other that the Scriptures rarely separate them. In Acts 4:7 it says, “When they had placed them in the center, they began to inquire, ‘By what power, or in what name, have you done this?’ " (NASB). From eternity past, God knew that all things are done through power and a name. This is why it is so important we understand this principle. It is for this very purpose that people are raised up – in order to demonstrate power, resulting in a name being proclaimed throughout the world (Rom. 9:17). Now the question comes into play, “By who’s name do we gain power?” Since there are only two resources of power, Jesus Christ and Satan, that leaves us with a sobering decision.

“In the name of our Lord Jesus, when you are assembled, and I with you in spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus” (1 Corinthians 5:4, NASB).

Paul makes a couple mind-bending proclamations. First, he points out that “in the name” is the source of their gathering. Secondly, he is laying the foundation for his ability to accomplish an act that requires power to sustain and thus, proclaims that what he is about to do is done in the name and power of Jesus Christ. What was he about to do?

“I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus” (1 Corinthians 5:5, NASB).

He demonstrates an act that through the ages has become the least preached Scripture in all of Christendom. He uses the name of Jesus Christ to turn a resistant person, who defies the counsel of God through church leaders, over to Satan – the second and only name and power known to the spiritual world. The obvious reason he does this is to stop this young man’s ability to be successful in his sin. Even more thought provoking, he does this for the sole purpose of providing salvation for him. The underlying principle here is that God uses the name and power of Satan to return people back to the name and power of God. On a more practical level, God uses the deception of self (man believing that his name and power has meaning and purpose) to lead them back to His name and power.

As a discipler/counselor of 30+ years, I have found that most self-proclaimed “Christians” believe there are three powers in the world – God, Satan, and man. The truth being said, there are only two, God and Satan. What that leaves us with is that the more Satan deceives people into thinking they can be their own power, the more secondhand followers he will obtain. In God’s reality, those who practice “self” are actually submitting to the power and name of Satan. Too harsh of a reality for you? Well, the only words that come to mind are: Get over it. Truth is truth and we as humans have no power in our own efforts or name.

Since the entire world is driven by money, fame, and influence, we can now see how the enemy (Satan) has a perfect, from his perspective, environment established for his soon and short-lived world leadership. Far above all who think of themselves to be self-ruled, having authority, or dominion, God will put each and every one of them under His feet. After He does that, He will grant His own Son to be the name of all names and power of all powers – for the remainder of eternity (Eph. 1:21-23).

So there you have it! This is the reason that a “good name” is worth more than all the finances in the entire world. In the end, it won’t matter how much we have, but it will matter how much of Him we have. Those who know the Scriptures know that the process of knowing and having all of God is through Salvation – which is the process of becoming a Bridal member of Jesus Christ. Our marriage union with Christ grants us the privilege of coming under His name, which gives us access to His inheritance and power from eternity past, present, and future, forever and ever.

Next article: God’s six basic requirements in order to obtain that “good name.”

#43: The Price of a Working Mother (Part 2)

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 18:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

For those of you who are new to our postings, I have been writing on the topic of mothers working outside of the home. In the last article, I presented the first five ramifications of working mothers; this week, I will cover the remaining five.

In 1870, thirteen percent of the women of America worked outside of the home. Almost without exception, these were single women working in one of two fields, secretarial or nursing. By 1970, forty percent of the women of America worked outside their homes. By 1991, it was sixty-nine percent, and in 1994, it was about seventy-one percent. They are no longer only single women, but also married women and mothers who have children and teenagers at home. In 2008, over eighty-nine percent of all women worked outside of the home.

If you are like most, you are sick to death of hearing these statistics; in fact, statistics show that you have become immune to them. You and I rarely take the time to respond to statistics like: America holds the highest divorce rate of any free country in the world; American women abort/kill 1.5 million babies a year; only thirteen percent of our children now grow up in a family of one husband, one wife and one set of children; not to mention, the level of teen pregnancies. Crime, murder, suicide, and all types of abuses are on the rise in our “Christian nation under God.” It does not take more than a junior high kid to conclude that there is something very wrong with our society.

Sin is like water from a broken dam – it will always flow downhill and is certain to fill every crack and crevice it comes in contact with. The blame can be placed in many directions, but there is one ravine that is sure to absorb its flow – working mothers. The sin of devaluing of motherhood in America is what I consider one of the greatest sins known to all generations. We live in such a godless society that women put their motherhood on hold to lead ministries or even become President of the United States, all the while their children are running to other “mothers” to find comfort and guidance. Who are these “other mothers?” Public or private school teachers of course. When a mother is caught between two worlds, she typically is left without one in the end.

SIX – CAUGHT BETWEEN TWO WORLDS: Keep in mind that the first five is in the previous article but this principle of ramification is a tough one. The work world is exactly that – a world in and of itself. It is a simple truth that the field you apply your hands to becomes the home that you will serve. If a wife or mother does not find contentment in her role as a mother or wife, she is certain to find herself with one foot in two worlds – the marketplace and the home. Each make demands and the one that pays the best will win out on who she answers.

Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth” (Matthew 6:24, NASB).

Since we just learned that no one can serve two masters, this mother will sooner or later decide which world will become her primary master and means of love, acceptance, and approval.

SEVEN – SHE WILL CRACK UNDER PRESSURE: Women are made by God to be the emotive aspect to all relationships, particularly in those she shares with her husband and children. When a working mother works outside the home, she sets herself up for increased pressure spiritually, psychologically, and physically. These three elements will produce a great deal of stress. What she does with this stress is up to her. BUT most, eighty-three percent, divorce their first and primary master – their husbands. As for their children, well – that is why we have daycare.

EIGHT – SHE BECOMES IRRESPONSIBLE: This issue is no different than time management in all arenas of life. Whatever you give your time, energy, and skill to will obviously consume that portion of investment. Whatever the remainder of the whole is left, well – that is what is left. We can’t make more time. We can drink more coffee for more energy, but we cannot make more time. When each of us needs more time, there is only one place to get it – steal it from another priority. If a mother gives her resources to a job outside of the home, in due time, she will suffer the cost of less time with God, husband, and then children. Any woman, man, or child who steals time designated by God for another is a thief!

NINE – SHE BECOMES A BAD ROLE MODEL: When you meet a mother who is functioning “effectively” in two worlds, just know that she has worked her tail to the bone mastering the art of suppressing her pain. These mothers may appear to be doing OK, but the truth being said, they are exemplifying a bad and corrupt role model for their children. Supermoms are usually superficial moms, because they simply do not have the time to apply much more effort than that of the superficial.

TEN – SHE IS TYPICALLY A SPENDER: I’m not sure why, but most working mothers are “shopaholics.” The only thing that I can stamp to this is that they somehow believe they deserve a reward for being such hard workers and having to sacrifice so much to do what they do. Needless to say, between this issue and paying for daycare, fuel, food, etc., the “second paycheck” is usually shot. Careful evaluation of the deception of the “second paycheck” reveals that it is an unprofitable investment. In fact, many women describe it as “throwing money to the wind.” The women that make it work are rare, but the average house scenario is that it drives them deeper into debt.

I know that my style of writing is bit “tongue and cheek,” but my heart is to assist and restore the family values of God back into biblical family. I understand that many mothers are forcibly put into situations where they “have to work,” but that does not mean that we should not teach our children, grandchildren, or others the pure truth of God’s best versus mankind’s seconds.

It is my hope that you openly rejoice in the fullness of God’s Truth without exchanging it for a lower level of understanding that has found its way into our churches as primary doctrines. Stand with me, my family, and many others in touting the purest form of Truth – that of, “Not I but Christ in me.”

#42: THE PRICE OF A WORKING MOTHER

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 18:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Recently, I was reading some up-to-date research on the price our nation has had to pay for the mothers of our children working outside the home. The results were alarming, to say the least. The reason why Hillary Clinton said that she wrote the book “It Takes a Village: And Other Lessons Children Teach Us” is because there are few mothers at home to raise a child. This is quite a confession from a working mother.

I wish I could say that the reason mothers want to work outside of the home is because they are forced to, by our present state of a fatherless society. But the truth being said, this is not the number one surveyed reason. The primary reason stated was that the men won’t work outside of the home. I must admit, this is one of those times I will have to agree with a worldly statistic. It is proven there are more men in the unemployment line than women. It is also a fact that men tend to be lazier, dishonest in the work place, and default to women to take care of them like nursing mothers. It was also stated that men tend to work for the weekends, to take a vacation, or to simply purchase that next toy. Women, on the other hand, tend to work to pay the bills. The result of our men not growing up and putting their toys in the closet has turned our society into a feminized dominant workplace.

The ramifications of a mother working outside the home are significant. I would like to share with you the top 10 ramifications that I have seen.

ONE - SHE LIVES IN VIOLATION TO SCRIPTURE: Certainly one of the most popular and less quoted verses on the topic is Titus 2:4-5: “so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored” (Titus 2:4-5, NASB, bold emphasis mine).

The Lord designed women to be workers of the home and this is no small task. Since the home is the center of the nation, not having a mother there to tend to it throws the whole of the nation off balance. Timothy, Paul’s spiritual son, said this about even widowed mothers: “Therefore, I want younger widows to get married, bear children, keep house, and give the enemy no occasion for reproach” (1 Timothy 5:14, NASB, emphasis mine). The portion of the Scripture that screams out a warning to me is “give the enemy no occasion for reproach.” If we were to give the enemy a reproach in this matter, he would have to get the women outside of the home. He, if anyone, knows that in order to drop the nation, you must send the mother bear away from her cubs. If the mother bear is away, the government is sure to play – the role of the mother that is. God has warned us many times that when a woman is not in the home, she become boisterous and full of rebellion.

“She is boisterous and rebellious, her feet do not remain at home” (Proverbs 7:11, NASB, emphasis mine).

TWO – HER CHILDREN RUN WILD: Let’s face it; no one can take the place of a mother – not even a village. This adage of her going to work, making the bacon, and frying it up in the pan is a sarcastic spoof on God’s mandates, not to mention an insult to men. Children not only need their mother, they want her – 24/7. God has placed it within all children to run to their mothers for comfort, nurturing, and application of spiritual growth. When she is not there, the child is forced to be his own god. That is exactly what has happened. We have a world full of self-centered cotton-topped godheads running wild like beasts.

THREE – SHE ONLY ACTS FULFILLED: Faking it until you make it is one of the truest statements for working mothers. They might act like they have it all together and don’t mind NOT being with their nursing babes – but the fact is, they are torn up inside. If they aren’t, they are more like the enemy than they realize. God designed all of us to discover the trinity of our personal identities - spiritual, relational, and physical. The only true and fair way a woman can discover her full identity in Christ is to discover and walk in the purpose for which she was put on this earth. I will get “hate mail” on this one, but it is true.

Scripture clearly marks the pathway for woman to be the “helpmate” to her husband and if not married, to her father (Gen. 2:18). Now there is a popular passage, not! When women try to act like men and men try to act like women, the children turn gay. Why is the gay society the fastest growing movement in the world today? It is due to the fact that men and women have completely swapped roles. Because of this, God is about to turn the world on its ears.

FOUR – SHE MAKES A TRAINWRECK OUT OF HER MARRIAGE: Men are feeble without their women. We are not designed to be alone; in fact, we can’t function without a wife or mother unless God grants us special skills to do so. I personally believe the reason why most men go outside the home to gain female affection is because he cannot find it at home. I understand this is not a catchall, but it certainly is one of the main contributors to this moral dilemma.

The love of God between a husband and wife is perfected when they realize just how much they not only need each other, but need each to function in their God-given role. When marriage partners act or function like they don’t need each other, they are covertly communicating to God that they do not need Him. When the woman of the house thinks she does not need her husband or children, sooner or later, she transfers her loyalty and love to those outside the home.

FIVE – TRANSFERRING AFFECTIONS TO OTHERS: Did you know that when a woman works for a man, husband or not, she demonstrates emotions of affection, loyalty, and service? It could be stated that she naturally functions as a wife or daughter to the man. When she is at work, it is her responsibility to please her employer and fulfill the desires of his heart – work that is. She is to honor, submit, and quickly respond to her authorities. Needless to say, the bulk of women in the workplace are not like this when they come home to their husbands. The reason stated is, “They pay me to honor, submit, and obey – you don’t.” Well, that confession proves its own point. It’s all about the “almighty buck.”

Did you know that over 90% of the adulteress affairs that take place are introduced in the marketplace? This might be the reason. Women are designed to work for their husbands and fathers. The same rule goes for men; ideally, they should not hire women as their assistants unless they are blood or adoptive family members. Women are naturally going to compare woman to woman and man to another man. If her boss is “nicer” than her husband, particularly to her, then affection issues will multiply.

Next posting, we will unfold the remaining five “price tags” of women working outside the home. I know this topic is offensive and many women feel forced to work due to circumstances, but she at least can be taught what to teach to her grandchildren.

#41: FINANCING HOMESPUN MINISTRY

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 22:50:00 +0000

By Stephen R. Phinney

Did you know that the home is the heart of a nation? It is true. The Hebrew structure of family reveals that the head of a home is called a governor and community authority is to rest upon his left shoulder. The view comes from our observations of Jesus Christ. In the first family, God is the Father/Patriarch of the family, Jesus is the husband, and the Church is the Bride. From this first family, God has established cities, nations, and even the world.

The early Church grew in numbers and effectiveness primarily due to the home being viewed as the primary base of the local church. I know – you were taught that the family is an extension of the local church down on the corner of Jefferson and Franklin, but it simply is NOT true. Early indwelt Christians would meet daily in various homes, to exhort each other from the Word of God, pray, and then be released to the world to accomplish the Great Commission.

Today, home churches are the wave of the future, but are still considered the “odd man out.” I can assure you that in due time, the home church structure WILL return and be the norm for all true indwelt Christians. It’s funny though; most local churches in the world are underground churches that meet in homes, shacks, and caves. But here in America, if a church doesn’t have a building – it’s not a REAL church. Personally, I think America is in for a serious reality check. After spending the past 10 years studying the history of countries from all over the world, my conclusion is that America is the most deceived and arrogant of them all. Well, enough of my soap box – let’s get back to how we should be spending our money.

In spite of the American view of “home-based ministries,” homes abound with opportunities for effective spiritual outreach. Each of these outreach opportunities is and will continue to be used by Jesus Christ to accomplish His mission. These outreach venues also provide a perfect direction for funds spent by the family income. Here are a few ways to consider:

HOME-BASED BIBLE STUDIES: A good example of this is my dear wife. She has been sponsoring women’s Bible Studies in and out of our home for many years. I rarely question the moneys spent on DVD’s or workbooks to accomplish such a mission. Many family and friends are introduced to the truest things about Christ through this venue. Most community-based local churches today do not teach the core victorious truths of “Not I but Christ.” Due to this problem, my wife and I are very quick to provide such teachings for the community at large. It needs to be noted that we do not advocate separating singles or teenagers from these groups. Men’s groups should be 13 years of age on up and the same for women’s groups. Segregation of the Body of Christ IS what destroyed the local church – thanks to Thomas Jefferson.

HOME FELLOWSHIPS: Home churches are not as scary as you might think. If the local community-based church used “home fellowships” as a part of its growth plan, most wouldn’t think twice about attending one. But, to actually start a Home Fellowship that functions like the local church – well, that is a different matter altogether. We really are a funny kind of people. God is not into 501c3 government run and approved certifications. He is into building up the Body of Christ for the work of service unto the accomplishment of the Great Commission. Home Fellowships are a perfect breeding ground for life upon life discipleship.

MISSION PROJECTS: Our family has supported mission projects and missionaries all over the world, for most of our adult lives. We have stories of touched lives because of it. One time, my eldest daughter and I made a mission trek over to Kenya, travelled over 4 hours in a jeep until the jeep could not drive any further, and then walked another mile or two – just to reach our sponsored child and her family. It was one of our life adventures that we will remember for eternity. Mission moneys should not only go “overseas,” but also in your backyard. Spend some hard earned cash on turning your home into a mission project, like packing food boxes that go to local needy people.

Mission service projects build family, fellowship, and community. Not only that, but they teach others how to serve and give THEIR hard earned moneys to others.

NEIGHBORHOOD BUILDING: One idea that occasionally works, depending on your neighbors, is neighborhood street parties, God-style. Once a year (or more), turn your front lawn and driveway into a party center. Put up a tent, heat up the grill, and provide plenty of family friendly activities – all directed at getting to know one another. You don’t have to turn it into an evangelism drive, just have some fun. Fun, food, and fellowship oftentimes speak more to your neighbors than your preaching; although, always be ready for a good preach.

VISITING WIDOWS AND ORPHANS: The growing reality of our world around us is that more and more families are becoming fatherless and oftentimes without parents. Yes, I said parents. This results in grandparents raising their children’s children, which is becoming a problem of epidemic proportions. Independence, divorce, and striving for the “almighty buck” are turning grandpa and grandma’s place into orphanages. This makes quality outreach for indwelt Christian families even more necessary than ever before. Plus, God actually requires it of all of His children.

“Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world” (James 1:27, NASB).

TAKING CARE OF MOM AND POPS: I think you would agree with me that we live in a “throw away” society! This horrific trend is becoming such a problem, that the UN has started a campaign called “euthanasia.” Euthanasia is the process of expelling (killing off) the elderly, handicapped, and terminally weak. The government has already proven that “nursing homes” and nursing care are so overpriced that something has to be done. Well, the fix to “being done” is euthanasia. I hate to admit it, but I don’t think we as a people will be able to turn this one around. The generation of youth today is NOT going to stop and reformat their lives to include having their elderly parents grow old within their emergent households. It just is not going to happen. You might find a few families clinging to these old school values; but overall, euthanasia is the only solution to this depraved world.

In saying that, the wonderful opportunities available to help these elderly people in the community becomes massive. For indwelt Christian families to serve in this way is a perfect way to show their own grandchildren how to care for their own grandparents. We must attack the global issues with local steps and this is a great way to start. By helping the elderly, family members are put in the position to rethink the ways of the world. This can be accomplished by going to the local retirement center. Or better yet, find several elderly people in town that can’t afford professional care. This is where the real need is. Pour your money there and you will gain the attention of God.

HIGHER STANDARD OF LIVING: Believe it or not, the most reliable way of using your home for quality outreach is to observe the habits of your home. Some of the items to consider are:

1. Set a time to put the cell phones on the shelf each night.

2. Set a schedule for TV viewing. On non-viewing days/nights, plan creative relationship building activities.

3. Make a decision not to answer phones during meal preparation or dinner times.

4. Develop a habit to have mealtime devotions – Oswald Chambers is our favorite.

5. Plan your “dining out” times and spend more time doing family cooking.

6. Pay less on hiring others to do household chores and do them as a family.

7. Agree to stop spending money on “junk food.”

8. Take family walks – invite neighbors to go with you.

9. Take time to read – even if it is just for fun.

10. Develop new habits of getting up earlier and starting your day right.

There are so many things you can do to save money in and around the home, just by not being so lazy. Laziness is very expensive. The ways of a lazy person are destructive. My children, and now grandchildren, hear me speak often about the ways of the ant. These little creatures are some of the hardest working examples of all of God’s creation.

“Go to the ant, O sluggard, Observe her ways and be wise, which, having no chief, Officer or ruler, Prepares her food in the summer And gathers her provision in the harvest. How long will you lie down, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest--Your poverty will come in like a vagabond and your need like an armed man. A worthless person, a wicked man, Is the one who walks with a perverse mouth, Who winks with his eyes, who signals with his feet, Who points with his fingers” (Proverbs 6:6-13, NASB).

#40: FINANCING FUN AND FELLOWSHIP

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 18:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Did you grow up in one of those homes where it was “grand central station” for all your friends? I hope so. The absolute best financial investment a man can make is turning his home into a fun and educational place for the whole neighborhood. Bringing disruption to your own home is better than sending your children out into a problematic world where you cannot supervise them. Plus, God promises to bless the family who shows hospitality.

"Is this not the fast which I choose, to loosen the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, And to let the oppressed go free and break every yoke? Is it not to divide your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into the house; when you see the naked, to cover him; And not to hide yourself from your own flesh? Then your light will break out like the dawn, and your recovery will speedily spring forth; and your righteousness will go before you; the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard” (Isaiah 58:6-8, NASB).

Many Christians don’t realize this, but hospitality is a huge deal to God. So much so, that He literally mandated it as one of the primary requirements of being a godly woman.

“…having a reputation for good works; and if she has brought up children, if she has shown hospitality to strangers, if she has washed the saints' feet, if she has assisted those in distress, and if she has devoted herself to every good work” (1 Timothy 5:10, NASB).

Our Husband, Jesus, has offered us very specific instructions regarding the motives we should adopt when it comes to hospitality. We are not to be hospitable for any other reason but to qualify our service to Christ .

“And He also went on to say to the one who had invited Him, ‘When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, otherwise they may also invite you in return and that will be your repayment. But when you give a reception, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, since they do not have the means to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous’ " (Luke 14:12-14, NASB).

That certainly sheds a completely different light on hospitality. Most, including me, consider hospitality opening your home to family and friends. The word hospitality in the Hebrew means “place of healing.” We get our English word “hospital” from this word picture.

There are four primary blessings that come with hospitality:

God’s attributes are revealed, not concealed. People in our homes see our families functioning not only in word, but also in deed. The best way to reach a hurting person is by action. When these poor, crippled, lame, and blind experience our families working together to accomplish the Great Commission, healing will follow.

1. Opens up a school of learning for our guest. This is where the rubber meets the road when it comes to home education. Our guest will watch or in the case of the blind, listen, to how Christianity really works. For my family, it has given us many opportunities of ministering to others by simply answering their questions.

2. In sharing, our guests are invited into life change. A family should look at their home as a tool to help and encourage others through drink, food, fellowship, and many times, the shirt off of one’s back.

3. The home is purified in Christ. People in our homes notice little things like: what we have on our walls, music we have playing in the background, books on our shelves or seeing how disciplined our children are. When they walk into our houses, they should almost taste the Living Water of Jesus Christ.

THE HOME IS THE CENTER OF CREATIVITY

Some of the most successful businesses in the world started in the home and oftentimes by families who home educated their children. This means income for the home keeps mom from the external workplace and helps dad keep his heart turned toward home. Men classically have their faces turned in the direction of money and this is one significant way to help dad keep his focus on the family.

Did you know it would be next to impossible for the “Proverbs 31 woman” to do what she did if she had to maintain an external job in the marketplace? It is true; a significant amount of time, dedication, and resources are needed for her to accomplish this feat. This is no ice cream dipping woman being described here. She is diligent in all aspects of life. I am married to one of these ladies. They are hardworking servants of the Lord!

People are rarely creative unless they are given the time, resources, and encouragement to be creative.

THE HOME IS A NURSING CENTER

Most Proverbs 31 women know this is a duh. A home filled with safety and peace adds healing to each of the family members. The home should be a refuge that family, friends, and strangers can come and be nourished.

Moms in particular are the “doctors” of the home. They are quick to know how to bandage the emotional, relational, and physical boo-boos. As I have watched my wife through the years, I have seen seven primary tools in her “doctor’s bag.”

1. Heart-Healthy Attitude: She maintains a home filled with accountability for attitudes of forgiveness and healing between each of her members. She has an uncanny ability to clear the conscience on a day-to-day basis.

2. Heart-Healthy Foods: As we see in Proverbs 31, this woman has the special ability to plan and prepare meals that are heart-healthy and comforting to the family. Yes, I said comfort foods. There is NOTHING wrong with comfort foods. The tastes, smells, and textures of foods create positive memories that will bring that family together for years to come!

3. Heart-Healthy Fasting: Believe it or not, God created our bodies to fast (withhold from foods) on a regular basis. Moms should work with the heads of the home to set aside one meal a week to fast and pray together as a family. No, the family does not go off in different directions, but rather sits around the dinner table and prays!

4. Heart-Healthy Dental Care: Did you brush your teeth, son? Moms seem to have this special knack to remember to make sure their family is brushing their teeth. She knows that a healthy mouth is a healthy checkbook and dad usually likes that.

5. Heart-Healthy Safety: Don’t get me started on this one. I have watched my wife watch over her family like a barn swallow watching her nest my entire marriage. She is a mama bear out to save her cubs AND her papa bear. With most women, if someone messes with their family, he is going to hear about it.

6. Heart-Healthy Cleaning: I cannot tell you how many times I have gone to put on my shoes and they are gone. For most women, a clean home is a sign of a clean heart. This certainly is the case for our home. We all help mama pick up and put the entire house in order each night before our heads hit the pillows.

7. Heart-Healthy Prayers: I know God has given women a special desire to pray. They remind their children and encourage their husbands to pray, pray, and pray a little bit more. We have literally seen miracles in our home through the years because of my wife’s passion to lift her husband up to prayer. How does she do this? Simple: she asks me. If I say no, well, whose fool would I be? Women can train their men to pray by simply asking them to do it.
When people ask me what is in my wallet, I say, “My family.” I am a firm believer that if the family goes, the church suffers. If the church suffers, the community becomes dysfunctional. After a dysfunctional community comes the collapse of the whole nation, and ultimately, the world.

#39: SPEND YOUR MONEY ON HOME EDUCATION

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 18:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

A fact I do not publicize very often is that I was given a “lifetime” status of “World Peace Ambassador” to the United Nations. It came with my service to President George W. Bush regarding the Faith-Based Initiative. Needless to say, I am a bit embarrassed by it, although there have been a few benefits to this status.

Recently, I became educated about the details and alarming growth of a “treaty” President Clinton signed with the UN (United Nations) during his presidency. This treaty poses a serious threat both to parental rights and US sovereignty, as well as, to public and private education. The UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) dictates not only that the federal government must intrude into the family sphere to an unprecedented degree, but also how the federal government is to monitor and govern the actions of our families through the US Department of Education (phase one implemented in 2010). Parental rights would be replaced by "the best interests of the child" as defined, ultimately, by an 18 member international committee appointed by the UN, in Switzerland.

One of the grave misunderstandings of George W. Bush was his “No Child Left Behind” project, which by the way, was for the strict purpose of derailing Clinton’s approval of the UNCRC. This is why his wife, current Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, wrote the book It Takes a Village to Raise A Child. The unofficial plan is that when she becomes President, her administration will incorporate the UNCRC as the US standard of reporting child rights and will move forward with the new UN Child Curriculum. Since her husband’s signature, the UNCRC plan has been adopted by every nation in the world except for two; the United States is one of them, thanks to President Bush. Question: If President Clinton signed the “treaty,” why is the US one of the two who has not adopted the full plan? Answer: It must be ratified (given formal approval). This is why there is still time.

Nations, which have ratified the UNCRC, must make an initial report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child within two years of ratification. They must then report to and appear before the Committee every five years to measure their progress on implementation of the Convention. This is why public schools are being pressured to place “documentation above education.” All this is prep work in order for the US to ratify the UNCRC. The Committee responds to the country reports with observations and suggestions for continued implementation of the UNCRC.

What the UN is not telling the nations is that they have a school curriculum coming that will replace all National Standardized Government School Education. This curriculum is designed to place every child in the entire world on one single educational learning track.

It is so easy to blow this off as “blah, blah, blah.” But the truth being said, it will affect every American citizen whether they care about family life or not. This plan will affect every public and private school, homeschools, every parent, grandparent, child care worker, and any human who has contact with children. In many countries today, thousands of school teachers and parents have been arrested for upsetting children or “coming against the rights of a child.” This is a serious crisis our country is facing. (Learn More: parentalrights.org )

So really - what is the purpose of the home? The home has always been the foundation of a learning center, place of warm hospitality, center of creativity, a nursing center, and ministry headquarters. When the world, the flesh, and the devil attack this command center, all “hell” breaks loose on the heart of the church.

LEARNING CENTER

Most think of “homeschoolers” when the home is referenced as a “learning center.” The truth of the matter is the concept of “homeschooling” is no older than the American hippy. On the other hand, the home being viewed as a center for learning has been around since Adam and Eve.

If and when the family functions as the Holy Scriptures are laid out, the basic ingredients of learning are already present. Some of these qualities are acceptance, security, modeling, discipline, organization, consistency, and the structure of the church.

When learning in and from the home is related to living everyday life and is carefully motivated by planned and unplanned activities, we have the makings of a real to life school. The home as a learning center is to be viewed as teaching our children every moment of each day – not just when the public school bell rings.

"You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up” (Deut 6:7, NASB).

When parents “farm out” their teaching responsibilities to strangers, they are sure to get strange teachings. Plus, this not only is a confession of ignorance, they lose their prerogative to communicate with their children, love on them, and grow them up into the ways they so desire. I cannot think of anyone who knows the needs of a child better than the parents of that child. Since over 50% of our children grow up in a one parent home, this privilege is fading more and more into the sunset of the yesteryears. Therefore, I will speak to those parents who are interested in capturing every moment they can with their children.

SPEND MONEY ON BUILDING CHARACTER

God has blessed children with His gifting before they are born. It is the parents’ responsibility to lead the child to Christ in order for the Holy Spirit to awaken these gifts to be used for God. He has also blessed children with a type of faith that is simple, pure, and a model for even those who have been selected to go to Heaven.

"Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3, NASB).

Through these gifts, the parent is to assist the child in extracting the character qualities of Christ. They also help the child practice these qualities until Christ is empowered in them to do it through them.

Each child needs to learn to stand in his faith as an individual by the ripe age of thirteen. Yes, I said thirteen. Hebrew manners and laws require of the parents to have their child ready for adult transfer between 10 and 13. That does not mean the child leaves the home. It just means the parent has trained the child in the basics of life. Statistics show us today that your average age of departure from the parent is between 25 and 30 years of age. There certainly seems to be something wrong with that picture.

Children need the ability to stand in their faith, alone if need be, at an early age. This way the child can stand up to the attacks of the enemy when the parents are not around to protect them. If should be every parent’s desire to have their children born-again at an early age and to be equipped to allow Christ to live in and through them. This is difficult to accomplish if the child is being educated outside of the home – possible, but very difficult.

If you were encouraged by our ministry, please consider helping us cover our cost: DONATE

#38: USING LOVED ONES FOR FINANCIAL GAIN

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 22:35:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

I am appalled at the number of “Christians” who use the term “business” for what the Bible calls usury. Through the years, I have advised more businesses, churches, and ministries than I can shake a stick at. Almost in every case, I discover some hidden deception cloaked in the cloth of “business.” It is important, if not critical, to understand what the Scriptures have to say about making money off of the losses of others - usury.

"If you lend money to My people, to the poor among you, you are not to act as a creditor to him; you shall not charge him interest” (Exodus 22:25, NASB).

Making money off of the pain of others is not only common nowadays, but some “children of God” have literally made a business out of it. I have even seen some that have “Christ-centered” on their literature. The ramifications of such acts of manipulation are a bit frightening.

1. It hinders God’s blessing on the lender and borrower.

"You may charge interest to a foreigner, but to your countrymen you shall not charge interest, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all that you undertake in the land which you are about to enter to possess” (Deuteronomy 23:20, NASB).

2. It downplays the fear of God.

“Do not take usurious interest from him, but revere your God, that your countryman may live with you. You shall not give him your silver at interest, nor your food for gain. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt to give you the land of Canaan and to be your God” (Leviticus 25:36-38, NASB).

3. It ultimately leads both parties away from God.

" ‘In you they have taken bribes to shed blood; you have taken interest and profits, and you have injured your neighbors for gain by oppression, and you have forgotten Me,’ declares the Lord GOD. ‘Behold, then, I smite My hand at your dishonest gain which you have acquired and at the bloodshed which is among you’ ” (Ezekiel 22:12-13, NASB).

4. It sets up both parties to spiritually stumble.

“O LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill? (Psalms 15:1, NASB). “He does not put out his money at interest, Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken” (Psalms 15:5, NASB).

5. It puts God’s valuable money into the hands of the wrong people.

“He who increases his wealth by interest and usury Gathers it for him who is gracious to the poor” (Proverbs 28:8, NASB).

6. It calls down the discipline of God on both parties.

"Then he may have a violent son who sheds blood and who does any of these things to a brother” (Ezekiel 18:10, NASB). “He lends money on interest and takes increase; will he live? He will not live! He has committed all these abominations, he will surely be put to death; his blood will be on his own head” (Ezekiel 18:13, NASB).

Assuming we agree that God equates usury with extortion, then usury is an offense for which the New Testament church should experience discipline.

“Therefore let us celebrate the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. I wrote you in my letter not to associate with immoral people; I did not at all mean with the immoral people of this world, or with the covetous and swindlers, or with idolaters, for then you would have to go out of the world. But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler--not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church? But those who are outside, God judges. REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES” (1 Corinthians 5:8-13, NASB, bold mine).

I know this all sounds a bit harsh and burdensome. But the truth being said, God does not take to people using their “Christianity” to self-promote or to gain personally. These are actions the Scriptures state that God comes against in a significant way.

The Pictorial Hebrew has a striking way of saying it. Usury (interest) means “to strike with a sting of a snake, to oppress, or bite.” If we look up snake or oppressor, we quickly see one of the names of Satan. If we connect the dots on this word picture, we will quickly see that charging interest is a pathway of Satan. A bit sobering don’t you think?
The next time we are tempted to charge interest on a loan, consider the snake, and then consider if we are in the mood to come against the hand of God.

When a loved one comes to us for help, remember this: he is typically too embarrassed to ask for a handout. Instead, he usually asks for a loan, all the while hoping we will insist on giving it to him as a gift or a loan – without interest.
If we want them to ultimately curse us – give him a loan. If we would prefer a blessing for a lifetime, give it to him. Our gift will have many more dividends in the end.

“At this present time your abundance being a supply for their need, so that their abundance also may become a supply for your need, that there may be equality” (2 Corinthians 8:14, NASB).

If you were encouraged by our ministry, please consider helping us cover our cost: DONATE

#37:LOANING MONEY AND POSSESSIONS

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 22:22:00 +0000

Piggy Abuse

By Stephen Phinney

Do you want to destroy a healthy relationship? Then try loaning money to a family member or friend. It would be far better to give the money with no strings attached. I have seen too many “healthy relationships” fall on the rocks over a personal loan.

Personal, corporate, or national economics built upon debt mentality are a precursor to being disciplined by God. If allowed to continue, they will without question end in bankruptcy and loss of freedom.

Freedom comes from the word picture of being freed from the bondage of debt (slavery). In order for a person, corporation, or nation to be truly free – they must be debt free. When someone takes out a loan, it places that person in the position of a slave. If this occurs within a family or friendship, trouble is soon to follow. At first, loaning money to a loved one communicates love and trust. But after a while, it musters up a much different message. If the loan is paid in full immediately, no problem. But if it is not, the relationship is about to be tested with the greatest test of all - slavery.

Generally speaking, if a loved one ever asks us to cosign on a loan, say, “No!” If he asks to borrow a few bucks, say, “No.” But if we have it, give it to him anyway. If he tells us that he WILL pay it back, give it anyway - in our mind. If he pays us back – praise the Lord. If he doesn’t – praise the Lord. We will have lost nothing. Many friendships and family relationships have been destroyed over a “few bucks.” Even though loaning with expectation is dangerous, it is nowhere close to being as dangerous as cosigning.

TURNING A FRIEND INTO A SLAVE

Scripture clearly states that the one who borrows is the one who becomes the slave. The last I heard, no one enjoys being in bondage unless they volunteer for the job. Let’s face the facts here; it is really difficult to have a dynamic relationship with someone who is enslaved to us. I certainly can work on the master’s side, but the slave side becomes quite the challenge.

“The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender's slave” (Proverbs 22:7, NASB).

On top of making our loved one a slave, we actually set them up to put us where God should be - that is NOT good. Loans indicate one of two things: the desire to have something that is not in one’s budget or a desperate need due to financial pressure. It is a nonissue if the item does not fit into one’s budget. If the person is experiencing financial pressure, this is typically a sign that God is about to teach this person an awesome lesson.

“Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I shall rescue you, and you will honor Me" (Psalms 50:15, NASB).

Most do not wait until God reveals the miracle in our day of trouble. We usually find some quick fix to getting out of the fix that God has fixed on us to rid ourselves of fixing fixes. Wow, what a mouthful. Lending becomes one of the human rescues, which oftentimes replaces the hand of God.

So what about those Biblical passages that encourage us NOT to turn away those who want to borrow from us? The rules of engagement which God gave to His people for lending were based on helping our neighbor through a crisis. In those days, when a neighbor was in financial crisis, it affected the whole of the community. The loan was actually viewed as a gift and absolutely no interest was ever to be charged.

"You shall not charge interest to your countrymen: interest on money, food, or anything that may be loaned at interest” (Deuteronomy 23:19, NASB).

God does not allow the charging of interest to a brother (friend) or family member, nor does He allow us to keep a person in financial bondage. This is exactly why He conducted (and still does) the release of all debt on the seventh year and the year of jubilee. This is rarely practiced anymore.

"At the end of every seven years you shall grant a remission of debts. This is the manner of remission: every creditor shall release what he has loaned to his neighbor; he shall not exact it of his neighbor and his brother, because the LORD'S remission has been proclaimed” (Deuteronomy 15:1-2, NASB).

Even with that said, God still prefers the righteous to show mercy and give over lending.

“The wicked borrows and does not pay back, But the righteous is gracious and gives” (Psalms 37:21, NASB).

“One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, And He will repay him for his good deed” (Proverbs 19:17, NASB).

As we give to those who are in need, we are actually allowing God (not that He needs our permission) to use His own resources imparted to us for His own agenda. He, God, knows where all of His storehouses are throughout the world at any given moment of every day. The children of God, who know this principle, dare not spend any of the King’s money, unless the King grants permission.

"Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back” (Luke 6:30, NASB).

I really think that God wants us to lend, but with no expectation of any return. I know this sounds a bit odd, but the Scriptures are filled with this living life principle.

"But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men” (Luke 6:35, NASB)

I really think that God wants us to lend, but with no expectation of any return. I know this sounds a bit odd, but the Scriptures are filled with this living life principle.

If you were encouraged by our ministry, please consider helping us cover our cost: DONATE

#36: POOR MONEY MANAGERS ARE THIEVES

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 22:12:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

OK, no one really enjoys talking about this topic. The Lord is well aware of the tendencies mankind has in stealing from God, man, and self. It is simply a major ramification of the fall.

Most associate this topic with stealing money or possessions from others. Few look behind the scene of the deception of stealing. For example, the most dangerous form of stealing is not from the tithing and offerings of the Lord.

"Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing Me! But you say, 'How have we robbed You?' In tithes and offerings” (Malachi 3:8, NASB).

Another form of stealing is not accounting for money, time, or efforts entrusted to us by an authority figure. One example would be conducting personal business on company time. How about bailing a child out of his circumstances in order to save face for you and your spouse? Is that stealing? Of course it is! There are literally thousands of ways we steal from God, man, and self. We simply refuse to take the time to look behind the walls of stealing.

Selfishness in general is just another fancy word for thief! In order to be selfish, one has to steal from another in order to gain for self. Too simple? Probably not. The resources and possessions of a child of God are given to us by God. He expects us to spend them on the items He purposed. As a good and righteous Father, He will hold us responsible for the blessings that He has entrusted to our care, such as money and goods. For every item or coin given to us, much more is expected of us by God. The less we have, the less is expected.

“From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more” (Luke 12:48, NASB).

The Lord God is very clear on His expectations of how He wants us to handle His funding, possessions, and resources. For when we do not handle them according to the divine will of God, He considers it stealing – from Him, to be exact. Not only that, He expects this man to pay, or restitute, it all back.

"If a man gives his neighbor a donkey, an ox, a sheep, or any animal to keep for him, and it dies or is hurt or is driven away while no one is looking, an oath before the LORD shall be made by the two of them that he has not laid hands on his neighbor's property; and its owner shall accept it, and he shall not make restitution. But if it is actually stolen from him, he shall make restitution to its owner. If a man borrows anything from his neighbor, and it is injured or dies while its owner is not with it, he shall make full restitution” (Exodus 22:10-12, 14 NASB).

In reality, it is this principle of “restitution” that keeps men in debt (stealing from the rich). They do not want to face the reality of paying people back in all things. Typically, people in bondage to debt understand the concept of paying back money they have borrowed. But few understand the principle of restitution when it comes to stealing time, not returning “borrowed” possessions, and using other people for their own gain. If an indebted person really understood that unpaid debt is stealing, he might not have “borrowed” to start with.

So how many “Christian” thieves are running around the world today? More than you want to know. It is estimated that 72% of organized church attendees are in debt beyond their ability to pay their creditors back.

ACCOUNTING STOPS DEBT

Someone meticulous about accounting is rarely comfortable going into debt. Since the focus is on watching the number shrink in size, it works against itself to increase debt. Don’t get me wrong, there are some who use a good accounting system to prove to themselves they can actually go into more debt. But the healthy minded person hates debt.

God oftentimes tests us in order to see just how much we can be entrusted with. Early on in his career, my wife’s uncle was given an envelope containing $10,000 cash by his boss, who owned a billion dollar company. He was instructed to hand deliver it to the bank, which he did. The boss called the bank and her uncle was given yet another mission the next day, but this time $50,000 cash was in the envelope. This went on until the amount reached $100,000 cash. With each mission, he protected the money with his heart of integrity. Over the years, as a result of this act of preservation, her uncle was advanced from “mailboy” to the vice president of the entire company. Uncle Bob’s boss probably got this principle and technique from the Word of God; but still the same, it is an honorable test. God, too, uses this venue on each of us.

"He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the use of unrighteous wealth, who will entrust the true riches to you?” (Luke 16:10-11, NASB).

Uncle Bob’s boss needed to determine the level of danger that might have existed between his personal assistant and himself. Even though the boss obviously kept precise record of his investment, he didn’t know for sure if his assistant would do the same. As a result, both were rewarded with many years of friendship, trust, and prosperity.

The same principles of accurate accounting of money are the very same principles God uses in His kingdom. There are no differences! Once a man figures that out, he then can embrace the process of accumulating wealth. The first step to increasing wealth is to account of everything he has earned, was given to him, or loaned to him.

The next step is to be a righteous manager over present and future earnings, by making debt free and wise purchases that advance the Master’s way.

The final step is to carefully guard against any and all who would take away one’s earnings through crafty deceptive ways, such as fruitless purchases.

A wise man will not only record all his financial and material blessings, but he also will record all the insights and ideas in which God gives him to grow as a child of God. Keeping record does not stop with saleable items, which are only the point of beginnings. Call it journaling or record keeping, it doesn’t matter – just do it. Please remember: for every ounce of wisdom God puts into us, Satan will attempt to steal two. It is in this manner, he forms debt.

If you were encouraged by our ministry, please consider helping us cover our cost: DONATE

#35: MONEY MATTERS TO GOD

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 15:41:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

One of the verses that shakes my foundation more than most is found in Romans chapter 14:

“So then each one of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12 NASB).

Ouch, that “give an account” phrase is what really hurts. Most of us go through our day just living life according to our own timetable and predetermined way. Let’s face it; having an accounting system that backs and supports our financial dealings is laborious and time- consuming. We typically don’t believe we have enough energy or time. Having an adequate accounting system is both living proof and a subtle confession. We believe that someday we will be held in account for how we managed what was entrusted to us.

Did you know that God has an accounting department and system? It is true! Check this out:

“Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, first to last, behold, they are written in the annals of Jehu the son of Hanani, which is recorded in the Book of the Kings of Israel” (2 Chronicles 20:34, NASB).

“May they be blotted out of the book of life And may they not be recorded with the righteous” (Psalms 69:28, NASB).

“It will come about that he who is left in Zion and remains in Jerusalem will be called holy--everyone who is recorded for life in Jerusalem” (Isaiah 4:3, NASB).

"Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven" (Luke 10:20, NASB).

“For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, ‘CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM’ " (Galatians 3:10, NASB).

“He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels” (Revelation 3:5, NASB).

"The beast that you saw was, and is not, and is about to come up out of the abyss and go to destruction. And those who dwell on the earth, whose name has not been written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, will wonder when they see the beast, that he was and is not and will come” (Revelation 17:8, NASB).

“And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire” (Revelation 20:15, NASB).

“I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues which are written in this book” (Revelation 22:18, NASB).

"Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were inscribed in a book!” (Job 19:23, NASB).

The very Bible that you and I study each day is one of God’s accounting books of the lives and testimonies of His children. All the actions of the just (saved) and unjust (unsaved) are recorded – yes, all of them. This is why it takes Jesus Christ one thousand years to get through the entire Judgment process of all past, present, and future humans. His book of deeds will be opened and all will be held in account to every deed committed – good and bad. The unsaved will be condemned for their list. The born-again children of God will be covered under the blood of the Lamb; although, Christians will still face their moment of recorded sins. The difference is that Christians are not condemned or sentenced to eternal punishment.

There are also over 3,000 references of rewards stated in the Old and New Testaments. God seems to make a big deal about recorded sins, deeds, and levels of rewards (“eternal weight of glory” - 2 Cor. 4:17). God is not promoting works or performance, but rather rewards for those who diligently walk after the Spirit according to His divine will.

God is all about testing those He loves (see James 1:3). One of the most sobering tests of a man’s character is his attitude and mind-set toward the use of what has been given to him to steward – like money. Men who are being considered for church or ministry leadership must pass the test of wise and godly money management (see 1 Timothy 3:3).

Character revealed by money management is very important. Christians are constantly warned by the Lord not even to eat a meal with a person who claims to be a so-called Christian, but is actually a manipulating swindler in money matters (see 1 Cor. 5:11).

One of the easiest ways I use to find out if someone is mishandling the Lord’s money is requiring him to show me (their counselor) his financial records. If he gets defensive when put on the spot regarding accountability for his financial affairs, I know something is up. If that man cannot, or refuses, to produce a record of his funding and material possessions, I automatically withhold my promotion of church management. Defensiveness is usually a plea of guilt and is a mechanism to keep the confronter at bay. Therefore, all those with whom you deal who have secret greed in their hearts are most likely going to be your accusers. The love of money is literally at the root of all evil (see 1 Tim 6:10).

ACCOUNTING IN FAMILY LIFE

Most family men do not think in terms of an accounting system. I can tell you this; the manner in which a man handles his money is the same manner in which he handles his family. The only men that can hide one from the other are liars. This is the principle that elders are to use for determining if a man is ready for church management – you look to his finances and family life. The man should not be groomed for church management until his house and bank account are in order.

The real purpose of household headship is a testing field for leadership within the kingdom of God. The moment a man manipulates his finances to satisfy self-will, he is to be put at arm’s length and watched carefully. This man is dangerous to the leadership domain of the kingdom of God. If a man is willing to trash his family for the sake of self-gain, he certainly will use the church for the same reason.

“He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil” (1 Timothy 3:4-6, NASB).

THE SECURITY OF WOMAN

I have always said that the woman is a meter to monitor the flesh level of her husband. I listen and watch carefully to hearts and voices of women. They have been blessed with a supernatural ability to predict the downfall of their men. Their security is in the observation of watching their men handle the checkbook with integrity.

Most men think that women are secure with houses, food, clothing, spending money, and trips to the hair salon. Even though most women enjoy these things, an average Christian woman will say: “I would rather live in a cardboard box and be debt free than live a mansion with debt up to our ears.” She needs to see her man monitoring the following:

1. Checking Accounts

2.         Savings
3.         Investments
4.         Legal Papers (contracts, leases, birth certificates, wills etc.)
5.         Licenses, Permits
6.         Marriage Certificates
7.         Medical Records
8.         Insurance
9.         Salary and Pension Information
10.       Real Estate Records
11.       Social Security Information
12.       Tax Records
13.       Vehicle Titles
14.       So forth and so on …

Most men can’t even tell you where these items are kept, let alone what the status is on each one. It is most common for men to leave those things up to “the little woman.” That might be an OK plan, but the man still needs to know the status of each item and manage an adequate accounting system to monitor these securities.

Seriously, if a man cannot give immediate account to these items, how can he strategically plan for the future? God’s system of provision occurs in the cycle of abasing (need) and abounding (abundance).

“I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need." (Philippians 4:12, NASB).

It is a man’s responsibility to teach his family how to adjust to these varying conditions with wise planning and preparation. He needs to put aside every penny, nickel, and dime to save for a future drought or challenge.

“On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come” (1 Corinthians 16:2, NASB).

Planning ahead is critical and absolutely necessary in God’s miraculous system of accounting. In fact, he gave us ants as a natural demonstration of this life principle and command.

“Go to the ant, O sluggard, observe her ways and be wise, which, having no chief, officer or ruler, prepares her food in the summer and gathers her provision in the harvest” (Proverbs 6:6-8, NASB).

If you were encouraged by our ministry, please consider helping us cover our cost: DONATE

#34 Financial Accountability

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:56:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

“Everything was numbered and weighed, and all the weight was recorded at that time” (Ezra 8:34, NASB).

“In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy” (1 Corinthians 4:2, NASB).

If you’re like most people, you probably hate paperwork. Recordkeeping is simply a “pain” in a world that is filled with business. I can tell you this; those who do keep adequate records are admitting to understanding the value and purpose of money. Recordkeeping is primarily for the master: a boss, husband, government, or board of directors. It also allows us to visually see exactly what God has entrusted to us.

A record, or accounting, system is the basis for a means in which others, primarily God, can hold us accountable for the provisions entrusted to us by God. People who seek and strive to be rich and increase in their goods, while avoiding accountability, tend to become either emergent or lukewarm.

“So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,’ and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked” (Revelation 3:16-17, NASB).

Most of us consider our personal financial status to be private and no one’s business but our own. The truth of the matter is – that is not true. All Christians should be willing to have their entire lives be an open book, including their finances. Using what God has entrusted to us involves using all of the resources God has given (spiritually, psychologically, and financially), according to His divine PURPOSES.

Which do you think Christ would consider more valuable: a million dollars safely invested in a secure stock or a cup of cold water to a thirsty soul? If you think like I do, your mind might conclude that we could take the million and quench the thirst of thousands; but the real to life answer is Christ would rather we give the one cup of water. The question is: “When is the man thirsty?”

“Your gold and your silver have rusted; and their rust will be a witness against you and will consume your flesh like fire. It is in the last days that you have stored up your treasure!” (James 5:3, NASB).

God’s original design of multiplying money is by trading, buying, or selling – not by stocks and bonds (inflation). In fact, inflationary wealth is a form of stealing. When there is no means to make money off of people’s losses (stocks/bonds), God’s people are more apt to increase their wealth through earnings and productivity, resourcefulness, and let’s not forget – savings.

Many use the parable Jesus told in Matthew 13 as a reason for making money off of other people’s losses (stocks/bonds).

"The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid again; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, and upon finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it” (Matthew 13:44-46, NASB).

I can’t tell you how many times I have had someone use this passage as a reason to sell everything they have to invest in a stock that will “double” or even “triple” their investment. I am always amazed at how we humans turn Jesus’ examples into depraved concepts in which to prosper ourselves. The message in these parables (the hidden treasure in the field and the pearl of great price) is in the unfolding of their spiritual value. If properly translated, they would read this way:

The Kingdom of Heaven is the Great Pearl hidden to the eyes of man, and if a man finds this Pearl of Great Price, Jesus Christ, he will sell everything he has, give it to the poor, and give his life to Christ.

If you remember, this is the very thing Jesus required of the rich man in Matt. 19:21, “Jesus said to him, ‘If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me’ " (NASB).

The key in these stories is that the wise money manager sold what he had and purchased something of FAR greater value. The real question always comes back to, “What is of the greatest value?” When we lose sight of this, we start stockpiling worthless things. Some even rent storage units to hold all their treasures. A mentor once told me, “If you haven’t used it in the past year - sell, trade, or give it away.” Good advice.

The majority of the “Christian Church” populous today is emergent/lukewarm – that is for certain. As I watch the church lose its salt in our postmodern world, I am reminded of what Jesus said to the church of Laodicea:

“I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see” (Revelation 3:18, NASB).

The fact is that life requires trading, selling, or giving things away of lesser value, for things that our hearts consider to be of greater value - even if it is a smile on someone’s face. It really becomes difficult, in many cases impossible, to live like this if we do not keep good records of the stuff we have. Yes, I am advocating that people inventory ALL their stuff – junk and valuables. This way if someone states a need, walk over to that file, read down the list to find the item of need, read where the item is stored, and go get it. How does one function being this organized? Simple - when “decluttering,” bring the file folder with you. On the inventory sheets inside the folder, include two columns: the item name and where it is stored. Also, consider adding a third column: the date the item was stored. Some folks like to do this with freezer items or whatever tickles their fancy.

ACCOUNTING FOR THINGS: People who can account for all their stuff are actually able to live within their means more than those who live on the edge of impulsivity. One of the most practical ideas is purchasing pre-purchased stuff. Did you know that 30% of all unnecessary purchases are already stuffed in a cubbyhole somewhere at home? People are either too lazy or they simply do not have adequate records of locating that “needed” item. Once at the store, they deceive themselves into thinking a newer one will better serve them. It used to be that people were too proud to use pre-owned stuff. Now, most don’t even want to use their own pre-owned stuff; everything must be new. This is why manufacturers purposely make things to last a maximum of one year. They have the same stats I have.

MAKING A PLAN: God said to make a plan and He will come and direct our steps. So when I look at the average person who comes into my office for help and see how out of order their lives are, I quickly see how much of their lives are not managed by God.

“The mind of man plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps” (Proverbs 16:9, NASB).

It doesn’t matter if it is God or man, managers cannot direct the steps of their people if there is no pathway. Wise people make plans, count the cost, and submit the plan to the boss (God). Fools spontaneously walk and don’t bother making a path. The only path they make is the one behind them. These people call themselves ungifted in the area of organization. Actually, that is an excuse and they know it. People perish without a plan!

It is difficult for most people to realize that when they make a plan and submit it to God, He has the provisions and sufficient funds to support the plan in ways the human cannot. The general rule is that if there are not sufficient funds and resources for a plan, then the wise steward should not move forward with the project – at least at that time. Spontaneous and unplanned people know this deep down inside and this is why they just “jump in.” This is also why those of us who struggle with being impulsively spontaneous get mocked!

"For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish' ” (Luke 14:28-30, NASB).

If you were encouraged by our ministry, please consider helping us cover our cost: DONATE

#32: RESISTING SALES AND BARGAINS

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sat, 21 May 2011 12:30:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Recently, my wife and I stumbled onto a television show called Extreme Couponing. Since we are avid promoters of using coupons, we thought we might take this show in. To no surprise, we found a list of people, primarily women, who were addicted to a sale or a bargain. They all used the excuse that if it is free or an “extreme” savings – one should buy it. In one case in point, a lady had a three-year-supply of diapers, but no children. Her stated reasoning was, “If and when I have children.” These people have every corner of their homes and garages packed with stuff they probably will never use. In reality, these people are “organized hoarders.”

As I was watching this show, I was reminded of something Jesus said.

“Then He said to them, ‘Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions’ " (Luke 12:15, NASB).

Generically speaking, material possessions hinder our ability to embrace the richness of Jesus Christ. This is why we must be willing to experience the loss of all things and even count them as worthless, in order to gain a much larger understanding of our Husband. It is through our riches in Christ that we are able to totally enjoy the hand of the Lord in supernatural provision.

“The naive believes everything, but the sensible man considers his steps” (Proverbs 14:15, NASB).

The word “naïve” in the Hebrew is “pethiy,” which means “seducible.” The word “sensible” in the Hebrew is “arum,” which means “prudent” or “making use of senses.” With this insight, we can now read the verse in this way:

“The seducible believes everything, but the man who relies upon his senses, considers his steps.”

Salesmen in the marketplace are counting on the “seducible” to believe everything told to them in their Ads. The logic is simple! The salespeople know that less that 10% of people are the “sensible” types; therefore, they really don’t care about the “organized hoarders.” To be successful, the sales representatives point out the positive aspects of their products, while they downplay the negative. They leave it to the buyer to search out the negative, which is rarely done. What does that mean for the company? It means cash in their pockets. Plus, there is a marketing secret that few know; the FREE, or highly discounted, items are what the corporate world calls “junk products.” These are items that are cheap to make, are overstocked, or are simply “junk.” The loss margin is so low, they don’t care if the 10% get these items FREE or next to nothing. This is why these “organized hoarders” will have 106 cans of sodium-enriched, trans-fatted, hydrogenated junk on their shelves. How often do we find these kinds of deals on organic and natural products? We don’t. It is actually one of the oldest “tricks” in the trade.

“Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight” (Proverbs 12:22, NASB).

How many sales or corporate representatives would you say are lying? A better question would be, “How many sales representatives aren’t lying?” The goal of most companies is to create discontentment in our souls. This is done by somehow making us think that what we have isn’t “good enough” anymore or what we do have is outdated or inadequate. Companies try to convince us that if we don’t have their product, it will stunt our happiness or success. In reality, God is telling us to enjoy our present possessions. He wants us to remember that He has entrusted us with a certain level of material pleasure, in order to test us in our stewardship.

“A prudent man sees evil and hides himself, the naive proceed and pay the penalty” (Proverbs 27:12, NASB).

Yes, you read that correctly. A wise man will actually run and hide when he sees seducible evil, which will lure him away from the way of the Lord. Whereas, the “seducible” (naïve) keep moving toward the cash register to pay the penalty.

Each year, millions of people buy into “get rich quick” schemes. We used to call them “fraudulent swindlers.” Today, we call them “multilevel marketers” or “financial campaigns.” It is nothing more or less than clever schemes to take our money in exchange for worthless ideas or products - usually stuff that barely lasts a year or turns to waste matter in a day. People who live off of these “get rich quick” ideas typically feed off feelings of inferiority, guilt, greed, and other lustful passions buried within the souls of their victims. Junk salesmen usually target independent people who only answer to themselves. Salespeople know that authority figures are the protective wall between them and their victims. If a woman said, “This all sounds great, but I will need to talk with my husband/father about this before making a decision” – well, that simply would stop them dead in their tracks. This is also why we find Satan doing everything within his means to reduce authority figures to nothing.

THE BAIT: If you have ever gone fishing or hunting, you know that there are four primary elements needed to catch your prey: the bait, the hook, the distraction, and the bite. Most advertisers work off of the fact that we have secret dreams lying dormant and waiting to be fulfilled. Their job is to find the right kind of bait to draw us to the hook. This “draw” usually involves some type of perceived “need” in our life. Once they are able to appeal to this perceived need, they are fairly certain we are going to bite into the hook.

THE HOOK: The success of an effective salesperson or advertisement is achieved not only by having the right kind of bait, but also the perfect hook. The advertisement hook involves confessions, testimonies, or statements that penetrate the hidden motives, or those secret dreams, hidden within our flesh. One of the greatest appeals is “to get something for nothing.” Nothing is sweeter to a deal lover than to get something that someone else has to pay for. The development of the “sharp hook” is a known and well-researched variable, in its ability to get the job done.

For those of you who fish, you understand the importance of “planting the hook.” You watch the bobber (statistics), you feel the tugging, and in that perfect moment of setting the hook, you pull like the dickens. Bam, you caught one!

THE PLANT: Swindlers use advertisements in a selfish way. They often work in teams and will strategically place others around us (the shopper), in order to create some excitement. Actors are hired to ACT like real customers who are satisfied with their product. This is what we call “planting the hook.” The only thing real about these paid testimonies is their makeup. The rest is as fake as their smiles. These compensated testimonials are paid to do one thing – to keep our eyes on the bait, so the company can set the hook.

THE BITE: Aha - the moment the company has been waiting for. During the phase of the bite, the fish really doesn’t do much of the work, the fisherman does. It works the same way with advertisements. Once the individual gets to the point of having the hook in his mouth, odds are that he will buy!

How do we stop this horrid cycle? It’s pretty easy. Decide to seek counsel before purchasing anything over $50. This is even easier for a married woman; just wait for the setting of the hook and then say, “I don’t make these kinds of decisions without permission from my husband.” Single gals may wish to say, “I don’t make these kinds of decisions without permission from my father.” Males may say the same thing, but use the term father or counsel. Done!

Was that too easy? Of course it was. This is why most swindling types of salespeople are hoping we have an authority problem. Did you hear what I just said? These companies are desperately hoping we have a real attitude about authority figures. They know if we use the simple approach spelled out above, the deal is dead!

The only salvation to protect ourselves against swindling salespeople and advertisements is to: commit to following Scriptural principles, seek counsel from authority figures, and lean upon the Holy Spirit within us. This I will promise you - the Holy Spirit will never lead us into debt!

#31: ADVERTISEMENT JUNKY

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 15 May 2011 16:55:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Did you know that advertisements rarely work unless they appeal to an addiction? The question would then be, “What is an addiction?” I wish I could give you more of a glorified definition than this, but it is “an additive to one’s life.” I know, we are used to hearing that it is some substance that actually causes a person’s body to be dependent upon it. The truth is that an addiction adds something to one’s life that is not needed.

One of the most used Scriptures in my counseling sessions is 1 John 2:15-16. It says:

“Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world” (1 John 2:15-16, NASB).

God is giving us a clear warning about loving the world or things in the world. In fact, He is so strong in this passage, that He leaves us with the evidence that those who do love the world and its possessions do not have the love of the Heavenly Father in them. Ouch! That hurts.

People who love the world are friends with the world. Those who are friends with the world put themselves in a hostile position before the living God. People, who work to be friends with the world’s concepts, its people, or systems, make themselves a literal enemy of God. I know what you’re thinking, “You thought we were supposed to be friends with the unsaved in order for them to become saved, right?” Wrong. God does tell us to “befriend” our enemies, strangers, and even people we know for the purpose of leading them to Christ; but being friends means an exchange of identity or becoming familiar (family). This type of “friendship” is oneness. Those who become one with the world soon realize how wrong it is to become a friend with those outside of the family of God.

“You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (James 4:4, NASB).

Advertisements appeal to our flesh. It is our flesh that is a graven mirror to the face of Satan and this world is his temporary dwelling place. God wants us to hate our flesh and never become friends with it. As usual, no one says it better than Jesus:

"He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal” (John 12:25, NASB).

Self-love is not a healthy action. When Jesus said that “he who loves his life loses it” is obviously showing us the error in “learning to love yourself.” The truth of the matter is that God commands us to “hate” ourselves in order to be able to embrace eternal life. Since Satan knows this to be true, he works to get people to “learn to love themselves.” His goal is to set a mark of “perfection” in which the majority of human life will fall short. Once this happens, the human will do just about anything to measure up to that mark (plastic surgery, implants, lifts, reductions, dyes, tanning, weight loss, weight gain, buffeting the body, exercise, and the list only goes on from there). Satan is quick to project a “perfect” image that 90% of the world cannot measure up to – even if they had plastic surgery to reach their goal. Satan is the craftiest, or most subtle, created being in all of creation (see Gen. 3:1). One of the primary ways he accomplishes this deception is through advertisements.

Here is how he does it: He goes out into the world and recruits those “perfect” model types (who usually got that way through drugs and anorexia) and places them front and center on a billboard. He places some crazed message about how if you buy their product, “You, too, can look like Miss Anorexia.” And you know what? It works. People start picking up those cell phones and order products that will only enhance the way they already look.

Advertisements would never work if the boundary lines of authority were at work in the lives of the people. Satan always goes from the bottom up! His little plan of going to Eve first was not by accident – it was strategically planned. Why didn’t Satan go to Adam first? Because he knew his advertisement would not sell him. Adam knew he was under the authority of God directly and Satan knew Eve was indirectly under the authority of God through Adam. This, in Satan’s eyes, was the perfect avenue to do his little billboard thing, which is exactly what he did. He took an already perfect image and added to it (remember our definition of addiction). This became the first advertisement gimmick to man and beast. He has not stopped using this technique to this very day. He will always go from the bottom up. If he can continue to cause a rebellion to authority figures, he can continue to appeal to fleshing friendships through his advertisements.

Imagine this for a moment. If every purchase had to be cleared for approval by an authority figure, how many advertisements of Satan would actually make the sell? Not many, my dear reader. If Eve would have taken the “apple” over to Adam and asked him if she should eat the apple from the “forbidden tree,” I am fairly certain the answer would have been – NO. Satan has formed an almost flawless system of control and he isn’t about to change his manipulative ways anytime soon. Seductive advertisements typically encourage us to ignore, question, or come against those principles that are designed to protect us.

Like in the garden, advertisements cause us to focus on that “one thing” that will make us look, feel, or be more successful. In reality, the opposite usually happens and we in debt over this “life changing” product. Remember when Satan said to Eve, “You shall not surely die” (see Gen. 3:4). Well, he was right - kind of. Even though she did not die physically right there on the spot; spiritually, she died instantly. It was from this covert twisted truth that Satan was able to cause his advertisement to sell her. God clearly warned Adam and Eve that if they ate from the tree of knowledge they would die, but the two of them continued to eat. Satan was counting on Adam and Eve not “getting it” right away. It was a “good gamble” on Satan’s part, because it worked! It all started by an advertisement to Eve, then an advertisement from Eve to Adam, and from Adam to his soul. Most people tend to believe the “results” they see on the billboard, not in the bottle (product). Most advertisements are based on the assumed benefits and not on the hard facts. A good example of this is in medicines that have lists of side effects longer than the complaints. Some even have side effects like “suicidal ideations,” “depression,” and “feelings of rage” - and they still sell a billion of them. People go for assumed benefits, NOT facts. That is the power of advertisements.

ADS AROUSE DISCONTENTMENT: An advertisement would not be a good ad unless it left us feeling discontent. Discontentment is at the base of all effective ads. The company wants us to feel as if something is missing in our life if we don’t have its product. This trick is as old as human life. Satan used the same tactic on Eve. He convinced her that she was missing out of something really important for her happiness. The truth being said, God had already blessed her with the fullness of joy. Discontentment cannot be birthed unless the person has a feeling that more can fit into their bags of happiness. With that said, Satan works diligently to drain us of contentment. Once he does that – its billboard time.

ADS PROMOTE INDEPENDENCE: Genesis 3:5 reveals to us that Satan said “Ye shall be as gods” (KJV). Wow, now that is an Ad. Be a god. How cool is that? As you have already guessed, Eve (and Adam) bought that one “hook, line, and sinker.” One of the greatest temptations to mankind is being our own boss, or better yet, god; to answer to no one. Well, how better could it get? True independence is death and Satan worked really hard to cover that little tidbit in his dialogue with Eve. As soon as Eve fell to this lie, she moved from being under God’s pinion to being a woman of opinion, which translates as “being your own pinion.”

ADS PROMOTE HOARDING: Have you ever taken the time to get to know a hoarder? They will tell you that the majority of their piles are a result of being hooked by an Ad – a bargain. Not all those who are addicted to Ads hoard. But those who do will reveal that it is usually from a loss of a loved one: someone died, divorced, or ran off on them. From that loss, the appeals and pull of the Ads begin to be more convincing than ever before. They buy and store “stuff” around them – all in an effort to fill the empty space that reminds them of their empty lives. Hoarders are a loud and visual picture of what Satan’s world of advertisements can do.

The televised version of hoarders is not the true picture of this problem. For example, in America, more than any other country in the world, people spend their hard earned money on renting “self-storage” units to neatly hide their hoarding. Not all hoarders pile it around them by filling their living space. Most in fact, do it in such an organized fashion that the world rarely sees their nasty habit. Yes, it is one of the most selfish acts of man; but in truth, it is a real addictive problem for many.

ADS DEMAND HUMAN REASONING: There is a big difference between human reason and God reason. Satan only appeals to human logic – NEVER God’s logic. He (Satan) would prefer us to choose between good and evil according to our own minds (see 1 John 4:1). As long as this human understanding thing is ruling our hearts, the Ads will continue to appeal to us. As soon as we switch to God’s logic and reason (His Word), the Satanic Ads cease from working.

BUT, I NEED IT: This is probably the worst one in the bunch. The enemy not only appeals to our wants; but he appeals even more to our needs, food, clothing, water, shelter, and companionship. If he can successfully move us from trusting God for our daily bread to ourselves, then again, the Ad will do its job. This is the enemy’s way of allowing the buyer to justify his impulsive buying. Have you ever seen an Ad that says “Don’t buy this product unless God tells you to” or “Don’t buy this dress unless your husband approves of it”? – I don’t think so! Half the fun of buying impulsively is lying about it – at least that is what I'm told.

LEASANT TO THE EYE: I think when Satan was finished with his advertisement, Eve saw the food was good to eat (pleasant to the eye) and would make her wise, so she bought the product. That is the point about this Ad stuff: If it doesn’t capture the eye, then what is the point? Satan was right there when He (God) created Adam and formed Eve. He knows that the “eye is the window to the soul” and due to this truth, the eye must be used in order to get the bite. Eve biting into that fruit is for us purchasing the product. Times have not changed and the same old same old is the same old Satan. His tricks have not changed AT ALL.

The bottom line is the enemy is working himself to the bone to get us to find fulfillment in all the wrong places. Anything, any place, or any person aside from God will work for him. He doesn’t care about the wrinkle cream, the new car, or even the Ad for that favored Bible school. What he really cares about is stopping God’s people (or any person) from depending on His voice and His voice alone. Idolatry is one of Satan’s favorite hobbies. He loves getting others to depend on people, places, and things that have nothing to do with God. For God and Satan both know that when people bow down and worship an idol, their faces are directed toward him (Satan).

Advertisements are needed and key in keeping and maintaining a person’s bondage to debt. For without all these fancy Ads, we probably would not have debt. I am in search for the dollar figure spent worldwide on advertisements last year. I haven’t found the amount yet, but I have a feeling that if I did, there probably would be enough money to feed the hungry and clothe the naked for many years to come.

Are all forms of advertisements bad or “of the devil?” No, they are not; but even a good and integral Ad can create bondage. My challenge for each of us is not to figure out the “evil” Ads versus the “good.” Rather, we need to put our focus on living out the biblical guidelines of God’s miraculous plan of economy and learn ways to resist sales. That is my topic next week.

#30: DO YOU KNOW HOW TO HUMBLY SUFFER NEED?

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 08 May 2011 16:34:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Weird question? – I think not! The proper and most honorable way to find out someone’s true character is by suddenly taking something away from him. The perfect way to find out an individual’s pride level is by giving him something with great value. The way we find out if a person can be trusted with things of GREATER value is by entrusting something of little value. Have I lost you yet? Don’t worry; in this article, we will examine the intrinsic value of suffering need.

Did you know that a pattern (cycle) can be found in the Scriptures regarding riches and poverty? It is true! God normally does not view riches or poverty as a permanent condition in the life of an individual, family, or even a nation. Notice that I said, “normally.”

Christ Himself was and is an incredibly wealthy man! The wealth He had while walking the face of the earth could not be measured by man. Think about it – a man, who literally owned the entire universe and then some, humbled Himself to suffer the need of poverty - being poor.

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9, NASB).

I saw a television show recently showing a millionaire pretending to be a person with a below average to average income. The mission was to “hit the streets” to visit the lowly and the organizations that serve them. At the end of the show, the millionaire would reveal his true identity and offer the organizations, which authentically “deserved” it, a large sum of cash. At first I thought, “Another reality show.” But after watching it, I quickly realized this concept is biblically accurate. In all actuality, that is what Christ did! He (Christ) is the literal Son of the Patriarch of the Universe, the wealthiest being in the whole universe and beyond. He was sent to humble Himself by suffering the need. During His short stay on this earth, He could have made every impoverished or needy person whom He came into contact with RICH by one spoken word; but, He didn’t. Instead, He suffered with and tested each of them, to see whose faith would be enhanced and who was deserving of True Riches, the kind that never rusts.

People who have learned to be content with being both rich and poor, full and hungry, quenched and thirsty, are the ones who will be honored and blessed with the riches found only in Heaven (See Philippians 4:11-12).

How was it that Christ, being the richest of eternity, was able to come to earth, humble Himself, and become one of the lowly? The key is “contentment.” The Greek word for “contentment” is “autarkes,” which means “to know one’s place.” Any person who knows one’s place in life is able to be at peace with humble circumstances. Anyone who does not know his place in eternity is NOT able to humble himself. This is why God obligates Himself to humble others. A content person is able to renounce all desire and want for the sake of another person’s gain; BUT, only with the power of Christ flowing in and through him.

Where do you stand in the checklist of humbly accepting suffer?
(Click on graphic to enlarge)

Click on Graphic to Enlarge

How did you do? Not so good? No worries – most of us don’t. Sordid gain carries a great deal of trouble with it. It puffs us up and causes us to be blinded to the reality of God’s desire to humble us with the needy. We all suffer with this. Poverty is such a blessing and there are great rewards connected to those who have learned to endure by it. A family that learns to love, when they have only bread to eat, is richer than the neighbor who has strife and a fattened cow spread across their family dining room table.

The cool thing about all this conviction stuff is: God’s kindness leads us to repentance. If you’re one of those who are being convicted, don’t blow this article off as another “interesting write.” Consider it as a gentle nudge to lead you to the feet of Jesus to repent.

God takes every Christian through a horrid time of discipline and pruning to increase his faith and move him to being fruitful in all things. Overall, He is causing us to be a reflection of the very life and face of Jesus Christ.

#29 WHAT IS YOUR STANDARD OF LIVING?

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 01 May 2011 16:07:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Have you ever heard the phrase “that dollar is burning a hole in his pocket?” It used to be a person couldn’t wait to spend money that he was about to receive. Then, it was money he “would have.” Now, a person can’t wait to spend someone else’s money, which he has no intention of paying back.

So it is with the level of standard of living that most of us demand. I can remember in my parents’ generation, they would have to work their entire lives to buy a house, a used car, and maybe a television. Today, I counsel a generation that typically has a $350,000 house, one car, one van, one motorcycle (his and hers), one television (in each room), and one Jet Ski – all before the age of 27. You think I'm exaggerating? Do your research and what you’re going to find is that most young people, married or not, are in debt up to their ears, while tirelessly working to keep the bank from taking their toys.

Your average person will raise his standard of living according to how much cash is stuffed in his wallet. Our standard of living should be based upon the contentment of basic essentials. I am afraid that is not the case with most. Since income is becoming more and more unpredictable, these postmodern concepts of money and spending are not cutting it anymore. Whether our income increases or decreases, we need to learn how to manage our lives accordingly.

When God causes our income to increase, it is not for the purpose of spreading out our luxurious living; but rather, to help the needy and poor. It is so easy to lose perspective on this. Usually what happens is that God will increase our base and we make the sinful mistake of setting our focus on the increase. God clearly warns us of this.

“Do not trust in oppression and do not vainly hope in robbery; if riches increase, do not set your heart upon them” (Psalms 62:10, NASB).

Trusting in oppression? Do not vainly hope in robbery? Just by a mere glance, these two warnings seem a bit odd. The Hebrew word there for “oppression” is “osheq,” which means “fraud or unjust gain.” The Hebrew word for “vainly” in this passage is “habal,” which means “being led astray.” Finally, the Hebrew word of “robbery” is “gazel,” which means “plunder or gain of others.” When we put the three of these meanings together, we get this:

Do not trust in fraud or unjust gain and do not be led astray by your hope in the profits of others.

With that being said, we need to contemplate on what it means to “trust in fraud and unjust gain.” Any form of financial gain, which is not 100% reliance on God and His divine will, is fraud. Those who are captured by the deception that oppressing others is a means of financial gain will automatically be lead astray to rob others. They will use the gain of others to secure their financial portfolios. That is how simple this is.

GAMBLING: Have you ever really taken the time to analyze the true definition of gambling? The original meaning is “investing money with the hope of making money on other people’s losses.” But if we look at the true nature behind gambling, we will see a clear violation of Psalm 62:10. Typically, when one person wins, another is oppressed (loses). We might say that this is the point of “gambling.” Most people relate gambling to cards, slot machines, and poker. Even by the definition in most dictionaries, the truth of the matter is gambling encompasses insurance companies, the stock market, sports pools, making money off of foreclosures and bankruptcy, and even, bingo. The general principle is based upon robbery. Instead of using our funding to help those who are getting ready to lose their home, cars, etc., gambling takes advantage of those losses. This is why God is so against it!

So – is it wrong for Christians to have wealth? No, but it is wrong to use that wealth to feed off of the losses of an oppressed person. God is quick to correct and discipline those who heap up riches for themselves.

"Surely every man walks about as a phantom (secret one); surely they make an uproar for nothing; He amasses (stores up) riches and does not know who will gather them” (Psalms 39:6, NASB, parentheses mine).

It is so easy for those of wealth to become puffed up and proud. When this happens, they start looking at their accumulation of wealth like it is a child. They start caring for and babysitting their money, more than caring for people. This is not always the case, but it is most common. The greatest violation is to fall into the temptation of switching the focus from God to the amasses.

“Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17, NASB).

Rich people tend to love money. In most cases, this IS why they are rich. He who loves riches will ultimately hate those who try to take it from them: government, family, friends, investors, or the world in general. The positive aspect of a godly person having riches is that he gives God the glory for the wealth and the reason for having it. He understands it is God who is able to make all grace abound toward him. If God decided to take it all away, he would continue to consider being sufficient in all things. Why? Because he is continuing to abound in good works – helping the poor.

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed” (2 Corinthians 9:8, NASB).

The bottom line is simple. When God increases your wealth, don’t increase your standard of living. First, look around to see who or what God is wanting you to help with that extra cash. If He continues to increase your wealth, be extra careful about raising that standard of living. Work to live as if you are hand to mouth, so you can help those who do. Not being content with what you have is at the base of all temptations. Realize and appropriate what God has given you - everything you need for your present standard of living. Struggling with discontentment starts the downward cycle of spiritual, emotional, and financial bankruptcy.

#28: GOD GIVING SPECIAL CARE TO THE POOR

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 18:00:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

When we look closely at God’s Word, it really seems like He shows favorites when it comes to the poor and needy.

Poverty creates dependence and dependence begs for special treatment, which is exactly what God gives. Poor people statistically have more faith than wealthy people. What that tells us is that poor people have a special niche about being able to look into the unseen world, which requires an enormous amount of faith. The reason God seems to give special favor to poor people is that poor people classically know that faith is more important than gold and silver. They seem to understand that “without faith it is impossible to please Him” (Heb. 11:6, NASB).

I know it is not any fun to view God, or anyone for that matter, as showing favorites over another. Believe me my reader, if anyone has the prerogative to show favoritism – it is the God of the Universe.

"Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?” (James 2:5, NASB).

This is why we are to listen very closely to the poor. God has chosen and blessed them with a faith that is rare. According to the Holy Scriptures, the poor who love Him are given a special grace when it comes to Salvation and being heirs of the Kingdom of God. Whereas with the wealthy, and those who strive after it, He tends to be pretty tough. These are not my words, but are God’s words.

Our Abba has granted to the poor a special freedom from certain worries, doubts, and fears, which classically plague people who have money or are determined to get it. As a counselor of over 30 years, I can tell you that poor people sleep better at night.

“The sleep of the working man is pleasant, whether he eats little or much; but the full stomach of the rich man does not allow him to sleep” (Ecclesiastes 5:12, NASB).

The number one reason why most people do not sleep at night, according to their own answers, is worrying over money problems; either warring over what to do with it or how to get it. As all of us can attest that when we have faith, we have peace; when peace rules, we sleep unencumbered.

One of the questions I have been asked through the years (and hate answering) is:

“Why does God allow the wicked to prosper financially?”

God allows some evil men to prosper for a season. I believe His purpose seems to be to let them see the emptiness and futility of their constant pursuit of money, wealth, and fame. He’s hoping they will one day turn to Him for full-on repentance. He has said that He causes the sun to rise on the evil and the good – no matter their level of prosperity. Personally, I don’t think God is so concerned about the “level” of prosperity or poverty.

“For He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” (Matthew 5:45, NASB).

It is sad for me to say, but most think the “goodness of God” is a sign that they can indulge all the more. The real reason for prosperity is to lead the people into repentance – not a reward of it. God’s kindness is not to satisfy our wants or our NEEDS, but rather to usher us into confessing sins for further righteousness.

“Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4, NASB).

The average person uses money to measure God’s level of contentment and approval of his life. There is a certain amount of “trouble” that comes with this kind of “stinky thinking.” The reason is in how the money is spent.

“Great wealth is in the house of the righteous, but trouble is in the income of the wicked” (Proverbs 15:6, NASB).

Wicked people typically, if not always, use their funding to spread their base of influence and control. They work their entire lives to make themselves BIGGER than LIFE. When they are gone, all of what they worked tirelessly to obtain, goes into a gold plated casket -- bummer.

“I have seen a wicked, violent man spreading himself like a luxuriant tree in its native soil. Then he passed away, and lo, he was no more; I sought for him, but he could not be found” (Psalms 37:35-36, NASB).

I believe we need to look at the other end of the spectrum. Is it possible for God to approve of a dynamic Christian being poor? I know very FEW who do not use financial success as a measuring tool to determine God’s level of support for a man’s life. Most “Christians” I know actually wonder if God is disciplining the dedicated Christian who is living “hand to mouth.” Most of Paul’s writings affirm that he had very little money to work with. No, he didn’t have some fundraising “campaigners” sustaining his ministry. He certainly learned to be content with wealth and poverty.

God wanted Paul and his coworkers to demonstrate the role and acts of a bondslave; how to endure through all forms of difficulties – while rejoicing in poverty. You see, by doing this, Paul speaks to “85% of the world.” Yes, you read it correctly; over 85% of the entire world’s population lives “hand to mouth.” God wanted Paul to show the majority that we can have nothing and still possess everything. What I just wrote is one of the golden keys to the victorious Christian life.

“But in everything commending ourselves as servants of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses” (2 Corinthians 6:4, NASB).

“As sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things” (2 Corinthians 6:10, NASB).

God’s children will not only experience poverty from time to time, He purposes to use it to teach His children that He will never leave them or leave them hanging. One who is poor, is usually rich in faith; those who are rich in faith gain the attention of God! Besides, God is not into His children “begging for bread.”

'I have been young and now I am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken Or his descendants begging bread” (Psalms 37:25, NASB).

Any of you who have traveled to poverty-stricken countries to visit or to serve, you know that the faith of those people is rare and is seldom found in an American church. The first time I came back from a trip to Africa, I suffered grief for two weeks attempting to process the difference between American faith and that of the “third world.”

27: US DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WEL-FLARE

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 17:51:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Just as it is in each of the divisions of the Department of Social Welfare, it is NOT the responsibility of the government to find jobs or supply any other social dependence for the needy. The Biblical reason and purpose of government is for God to have a system of justice to oversee His laws and to deliver the consequences when His commands are not honored. I'm not sure you will find any country in the world that has set the purpose of their government to do that. One of my favorite passages, which can help us understand the purpose of government, is in 2 Peter. Check this out:

“Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by Him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right” (1 Peter 2:13-14, NASB).

GOVERNMENT SUPPLIED JOBS: God clearly reveals in this passage the purpose for earthly government. When government steps out of its bounds and attempts to manage the hearts and morality of the people, BIG government is formed.

Once a government is functioning in its God-given boundaries, the local business owners are free to hire and fire according to their individual goals and beliefs. As soon as the government tries to manage the corporate sector, business owners begin to feel like their hands are being tied through government regulations. Once that happens, business owners can’t fire, hire, or manage workers according to their beliefs; but rather, the workers start managing the employers according to workers’ “rights.” Then, government is upside down and the people who are actually responsible for keeping unemployment out of the dumper are being lead around as if they have rings in their noses. The ultimate consequence for the employer is that they won’t “feel led” to leave a portion of their profits to the poor.

“Now when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap to the very corners of your field, nor shall you gather the gleanings of your harvest. Nor shall you glean your vineyard, nor shall you gather the fallen fruit of your vineyard; you shall leave them for the needy and for the stranger. I am the LORD your God” (Leviticus 19:9-10, NASB).

If you read the above two verses, you just saw one of the all-time solutions to poverty. Since we have BIG government managing small businesses through policies, poverty will only increase. The reason employers don’t leave a portion of their businesses for the poor to feed off of is because they feel like they are being taxed to death before they even hire their first employee. When you open your morning paper tomorrow, read all the headlines! Review just how much of the news is over this topic. You should discover the majority of news is over the privatization rights of small business.

GOVERNMENT PAYOUTS: Another topic you will read about frequently in the news is in regard to “government payouts.” Is it Biblical to guarantee monthly income like Social Security checks? I will most likely get “hate e-mail” over this one; but, NO – it is not Scriptural. Not only does this support the idea of BIG government, but it destroys personal responsibility and multigenerational family integration. Even though it is NOT free money, it feels like free money to the slothful (lazy). While it promotes laziness in some, it also causes erosion and destruction of the original structure of family. God puts the full responsibility of caring for the elderly and needy on family. If the family is unable to care for their elders and needy family members, they are to go to the church. The church elders are then to assign another family(ies) to help train and care for those who have needy members under their roofs. That leads us to the topic of nursing homes.

NURSING HOMES: Does the Bible support the idea of nursing homes? I am afraid not! I know that our postmodern structure makes it almost “impossible” to care for our elderly parents; but it doesn’t change the Truth.

Multigenerational care is not a new concept – not at all. From the design of the original Hebrew family to that of Jesus going and preparing a place for His bride “in His Father’s house,” it has been the norm of God to conduct family business in this fashion.

So – what happened to us? Satan has so fractured God’s original design of family, elder care, and social welfare of the needy, that we have become depraved to the point of shipping our parents off to institutions and paying for others to finish what was originally our responsibility. In many of these cases, the families don’t even pay for these services; but rather, put the government in the position of having to come up with the money to do what God is asking the children to do. It is no wonder why the government is trying to pass legislation to euthanize (medically kill) our elderly. Shucks, if I was a liberal government worker (and I am not), I would push for such legislation as well. Just from an accounting perspective, government sponsored nursing home care is a really dumb idea. The government will not only get this euthanasia legislation passed, the average person is going to support this crazy idea. The reason for their support is sobering. Our postmodern society simply does not want these feeble, grouchy, old people disturbing their progressive lifestyles. If you’re wondering about those medically dependent cases that need special care – to that I say, hospice. If a local hospice is not medically equipped to handle the medical issues, there is the local hospital, which should only be temporary in order to return our loved one home. When possible, elderly people should die in one of the homes of their children – preferably of the eldest child.

In conclusion of this segment, I understand that in 90% of the elderly cases, this is an impossibility. I understand our society has gone too far and the odds of returning to God’s commands are next to impossible. I also have embraced what Jesus said:

"Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death” (Matthew 10:21, NASB).

I really do understand that we are living in these times. Family honor and respect is so “old school” that we WILL start killing off our loved ones like they are stray dogs and not feel one ounce of guilt because of it. Hard to believe – do you think Jesus is just speaking to homicide via guns and knives? No – it includes abortion, medically assisted termination, euthanasia, and even turning a loved one over to the Antichrist for torture.

To those who are truly listening to what I am trying to communicate, I challenge you to pick up your responsibilities when and wherever possible and do what you can do to support God’s design of welfare and family. In those cases where it seems impossible to care for your parent(s) or needy family member, I say, pray. Pray and ask God for a way and then go to your local church and ask for help and guidance as to how they can empower you to support God’s idea of family integrated welfare.

26: HOLY COW - THE RICH GET RICHER

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 10 Apr 2011 18:11:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

It is so easy to get caught up in questions like: “Does God want certain people rich and others poor?” The Truth is, God isn’t into some being rich and others being poor. His divine will is for the world to focus upon His eternal riches. It is true that in this process, He will temporarily allow wealth with some in order to help with the poverty of others. Scriptures show us that He doesn’t do this to increase the wealth of one, but rather to keep his promise of feeding and clothing ALL of His creation. If every human used their extra cash (anything above living expenses) to feed and clothe another human, I can assure you – there would NOT be one single hungry or naked person in the entire world! In order for this principle to really produce fruit, it would require a spreading of the world’s wealth with such equality that there would no longer be sharp differences in corporate or privatized income.

Since we will never see the above principle lived out on this earth, greed will continue to rule the earth. God will continue to allow people and nations to increase in their wealth, so He can humble them by causing them to lose their riches. Usually it only takes a disaster or two to bring a thriving economy (personally or nationally) to its knees. Even in my small life span, I have seen some of the richest people and nations in the world go broke overnight. For those who follow Him through the indwelling power of His Son, He oftentimes causes loss of money, so that they might discover the full on riches and provisions of God’s miraculous plan of economy.

“You made men ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water, yet You brought us out into a place of abundance” (Psalms 66:12, NASB).

GOVERNMENT BAIL OUTS: I really don’t mean to sound rude or coldhearted, but people really are like stupid sheep! God works so diligently to create dependence on Him. But what do they do? They run to government programs, like sheep being lead to a slaughterhouse. Poverty will never be eliminated or helped through special social programs. If I remember correctly, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again – thinking the next time you do it, things will be different. I don’t know if you have noticed or not, but the trillions and trillions of dollars we throw at poverty are NOT fixing the problem. In fact, let’s take America as an example. Statistics prove that even though we spend more and more on social welfare each year, poverty is actually getting worse. Social programs, which are purposed to end poverty, usually make big government and the idea makers richer. Plus, it negates what God wants to accomplish through the individual and national poverty rate (like honest appraisal, seeking the Lord God, and Body-Life dependence). Do you want a simpleminded definition of politics? Men like power and power is not realized for an individual or nation unless there is someone(s) begging at their feet.

Did you know that a cow eats enough food to feed seven people. There are an estimated 350 million “sacred cows” in India? If we do the math, we will find that if the people would stop feeding the cows their food, they would have enough food to feed well over a billion people. If they turned the cows into hamburger, they would generate an export that could stabilize the entire country. Satan might be stupid, but he knows what he is doing! He would rather the people worship a cow and go hungry, than meet the needs of his followers. Idolatry always ultimately starves its followers. Once hungry, they come begging at the king’s (Antichrist’s) table.

If we replace the cow with other types of idols, we will find the same kind of stupidity in every country in the world. Idols truly make people lethargic and almost stupid to common sense.

LAZY PEOPLE USUALLY GO HUNGRY: This is a truth that is argued over throughout the halls of history. This simple fact is: if you don’t work – you don’t eat!

“For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either” (2 Thessalonians 3:10, NASB).

Sounds kind of rude and cruel doesn’t it? In God’s plan of economy, these two principles go hand in hand. It is primarily because of this reason that I continued to work in some fashion or another throughout my heart failure experience, even while I was in the hospital. A lazy person is not necessarily someone who rejects the idea of labor, but rather someone who procrastinates in doing it.

"A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest -- your poverty will come in like a vagabond and your need like an armed man” (Proverbs 6:10-11, NASB).

In over 30 years of counseling the hurting, procrastinators (lazy people) are the worst kind of people to deal with. They nod their heads “yes” on the outside, but delay on the inside. When confronted about their laziness, they typically justify their behavior by an endless list of reasons why they could not do what was asked of them. Meanwhile, they put the responsibility on the “counselor” to fix the fix they actually fixed on themselves and then get frustrated, or downright angry, if the “counselor” doesn’t. Working with the lazy is like trying to make a pathway through a bowl of jello.

“The sluggard (lazy) does not plow after the autumn, so he begs during the harvest and has nothing” (Proverbs 20:4 NASB, parentheses mine).

We see in the Scriptures that God purposes to bring “nothingness” to lazy people throughout the world; because they won’t, or refuse, to work for food. I cannot tell you how many times I have been asked the question as to why God allows poverty and hungry people in the world. We have poverty in the world because people would rather give the five bucks than hire the man to work for his food. It is not any more complicated than that. We are literally causing the lazy to become dependent on BIG government. If you haven’t noticed, government sponsored social welfare DOES NOT WORK!

Don’t get me wrong, God does command us to take care of the poor; but He does NOT want us to give without prayer and supplication. Much of the poor are poor because of circumstances outside of their control: health issues, widows, orphans, employment issues, etc. We are required by God to assist and care for the truly needy. If we were able to separate the workers from the truly needy and put the workers to work, we wouldn’t have the massive problem of poverty that we have today. In fact, God usually sides with the truly poor and if any come against them, He takes those actions personally.

“He who oppresses the poor taunts his Maker, but he who is gracious to the needy honors Him” (Proverbs 14:31, NASB).

If you want to taunt God, God forbid, just ignore the poor in your community!! If you dare to “make a buck” off of the poor, God is certain to put you in want!

“He who oppresses the poor to make more for himself or who gives to the rich, will only come to poverty” (Proverbs 22:16, NASB).

Allow me to give you an example of this Truth. Recently, the second wealthiest country in the world had a major earthquake, which caused a tsunami. These two catastrophic events washed out a major portion of the country and led to potential life-threatening impairments in several nuclear reactors, which released hazardous chemicals, damaged much of the food supply, and resulted in very long food lines. Another country, who is in financial debt to this traumatized country, offered $200 million of food and medical supplies at the price of more debt to its own people. Is this really the right thing to do? Was this country giving to the rich, who could afford their own bailout? What are the consequences of such actions as feeding the rich? I can tell you – the country giving $200 million dollars will only come to poverty! If we are honest with ourselves, we know why country #2 was feeding the rich. But should a country ever take care of the poverty needs of another country while ignoring the poverty needs of their own people? Of course not! But most countries will “kowtow” like this every time there is any kind of global crisis. Anytime an individual or nation gives to others while oppressing their own people, God WILL bring judgment upon them.

"You shall not afflict any widow or orphan. If you afflict him at all, and if he does cry out to Me, I will surely hear his cry; and My anger will be kindled, and I will kill you with the sword, and your wives shall become widows and your children fatherless” (Exodus 22:22-24, NASB).

Hummm – so why exactly is our world being filled with widows, fatherless children, poverty, and despair?

25: LEARNING TO BE WELL CONTENT

corporate@iomamerica.org (Dr. Stephen R. Phinney) — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 19:51:00 +0000

By Stephen Phinney

Most “Christians” today have the covert belief that external hardship is a sign of discipline or lack of approval from God. While this can be true, the Emergent Postmodern world today touts that true success is evidenced by prosperity and popularity. Did you know that if the Biblical Paul lived today, he would most likely be despised by today’s Christian church? It’s true! Paul was preaching a gospel that invited pain and suffering. In fact, he was preaching a message stating that we should question our faith if we’re not suffering external hardships.

Paul went from being one, if not the most, prosperous and popular religious person in the world, to being one of the most despised. Every time Paul turned around, he was faced with either being persecuted or having something fall down around him.

“Are they servants of Christ?--I speak as if insane--I more so; in far more labors, in far more imprisonments, beaten times without number, often in danger of death. Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, a night and a day I have spent in the deep. I have been on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers on the sea, dangers among false brethren; I have been in labor and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure” (2 Corinthians 11:23-27, NASB).

Let’s face it, if you and I were to look upon a Christian leader today with this list: endless labors, imprisonments, beatings with rods, brushes with death, whippings, stonings, shipwrecks, floating in the sea for a day, dangers of rivers, robberies, dangers from his own people and townspeople, attacks in the wilderness, betrayal of false brethren, hardships, sleepless nights, hunger, thirst, and cold – we probably would tell him God was punishing him. Where do we get such “stinky thinking?” We get it from the enemy, of course. God wants us to learn to be well content with all things – good and not so good. We usually associate this with financial success; but God is actually referencing all forms of suffering and circumstances.

“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need” (Philippians 4:11-12, NASB).

Up until recently, postmodern Christians have been able to escape this message of Truth. But soon, all people will be faced with the consequences of global debt. Before long, the prosperity Christians who believe popularity equals success will be faced with a global crisis. This will force humility and cause them to turn an ear to teachers who preach the same message of our beloved Paul. There is such arrogance in our brethren today; it is easy to see a great humbling is coming.

Most believers (indwelt Christians) don’t really know the difference between poverty and wealth. This is why God is committed to showing His people the difference. Some of the most arrogant accusers I have had to face in my ministry life have been “believers” who refuse to associate with me because of my beliefs regarding poverty and prosperity. Even though this is a sad commentary for me, I understand that our society has touted capitalism to the point of its invasion into the church.

Since God is a jealous God (Exodus 20:5), when a man falls into the lie that he can provide for himself or his family on his own, He knows it is time for a lesson. It is difficult living out the Biblical mandates of prosperity and poverty under a banner of capitalism. Capitalism shouts out through an economic system that says “production through private ownership equals profit.” The lie pervading the American society is “if you’re not a capitalist, you are a socialist.” This is the furthest thing from the truth – at least for true indwelt Christians. Satan has installed a fear into postmodern Christians that if they live out the model of body-life prosperity in the Bible, they somehow will be supporting Socialism. I mean seriously, look at this:

“For there was not a needy person among them, for all who were owners of land or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds of the sales and lay them at the apostles' feet, and they would be distributed to each as any had need” (Acts 4:34-35, NASB).

That almost sounds like a “Jimmy Jones” cult practice. I consider these two verses to be some of the most radical in the entire Bible. What would you do if you found your neighbor selling his house to give the money to a needy person in his church? Wouldn’t you be tempted to accuse him of being in a cult? I have surveyed this and 95% of the Christians questioned said “yes” to the “cult” status.

Either Jesus Himself is an exaggerator or He is speaking the Truth when He says: “Sell your possessions and give to charity; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys.” (Luke 12:33, NASB; also see Matt. 19:21; Mark 10:21; Luke 18:22, 25; Rev. 13:17).

Until we get closer to the end-times, I really don’t think your average Christian is going to get what Jesus and the rest of the New Testament characters is saying regarding caring for the body of Christ, without a heavy reliance upon a worldly system of temporal gain. The movement we are going to be seeing over the next 20 + years is this: the “Truth saying” prophet-type teachers of the Word are going to be called upon more than ever before. What many of our stabile prophecy interpreters have been saying is now actually coming true. This will even be more of the case as the enemy unfolds his evil, yet tastefully delicious, plan to the world. The danger to this new movement is that the “false prophets” will be coming out of the woodwork like never before. This is why we MUST encourage the indwelt Christians to get back into the Word and stabilize their beliefs according to the written Word of God.

Have you ever noticed how large income people never have enough money to pay their bills? The reason is they tend to spend their money on people, places, and things that have nothing to do with how God allows them to spend their money. Since a man’s heart is where his money is invested, we are quickly able to see the heart of a man by telling him what he CAN’T spend his money on. Usually, he will manifest an attitude that proves his irresponsibility – “You can’t tell me how to spend my money!” These types of money spenders are poor in the eyes of God, no matter how much is in their bank accounts.

People who are aroused in rebellion when told NOT to spend their money in a certain way typically think that making more money will make him/her wealthier. Proverbs calls this kind of man a fool. There is much more to making and keeping money than just putting one’s mind to becoming rich, or even becoming “sufficiently satisfied.”

“Who is there who speaks and it comes to pass, unless the Lord has commanded it?” (Lam 3:37, NASB).

A fool can “name it and claim it” all day long, day after day, and nothing will become of it unless the Lord decides so. Even in this decision of the Lord, He will decide for a fool to become prosperous for two distinctly different reasons: one, to cause success in order to bring him to nothingness (take it all away) and secondly, to ultimately give it to the children of God. But I can assure you that while the fool is on his prosperity path, he thinks nothing can stop him and nobody can tell him how to spend “his money.” As soon as a man thinks his income is his own, he has lost touch with God’s reality. When that happens, the man is about to face a strong wind.

"You look for much, but behold, it comes to little; when you bring it home, I blow it away. Why?" declares the LORD of hosts, "Because of My house which lies desolate, while each of you runs to his own house” (Haggai 1:9, NASB).

What we see here is the design and purpose of poverty and prosperity – according to God. If the man looks for an increase in wealth, God will work to bring it to little and sometimes will toss our hard earned money right to the wind (nothingness). Why? As the verse mentions, God is all about building His own house. Most people, who focus on making money, usually forget this and spend their “hard earned money” on either securing a nest egg or getting out of debt in order to go into debt once again. It is called “using credit to secure credit.” What the debt facilitators are really saying is “go into debt, to go into more debt.” This is why it is a vicious cycle of bondage. Those who have been there more than once know exactly what I'm saying.

Hopefully, we are now able to see that the loss of money can be God’s divine intervention and discipline for those who refuse to spend His money on what God allows. God is a “cause and effect” God when it comes to violating His laws and losing cash flow (see Proverbs 5:10; 6:11; 10:3-4; 11:5, 24, 29; 13:11,18; 14:23; 19:15; 21:13, 17; 22:16; 23:21; 28:8; 19, 22).

I know personally it is a difficult reality to embrace that God causes some to be rich and some to be poor. God has His reasons for choosing different means and people to accomplish different purposes for His glory.