By Crystal Langdon

www.crystalclearfinances.com 

The proper alignment of finances creates a freedom to give and live in the manner God has ordained. It is time for Christians of all ages to understand their rightful position in the financial realm.

In this column, I will expose the false assumption that many individuals believe about their finances and the impact they can have for God’s kingdom. Too many believe that their limited resources cannot make a difference. This is untrue.

Each individual impacts his or her neighborhood, state and America. Corporations are dependent upon the financial support of its consumers and stockholders. When Christians begin to redirect their spending and investing habits, they can literally dry up the resources that support anti-Christian values. This redirected spending can support the companies and charities that work to further their moral beliefs and values. Christians should understand the importance of using their finances to support their beliefs. Do you understand what your personal investments are supporting?

Proper charitable giving starts in every Christian home across New York State. Not being intimidated by your finances and gaining an understanding of the incredible tool it can be, when used properly, is the beginning of understanding legacy giving. Proper financial understanding and planning by Christians will produce a resource of future funds to invest in the continued freedom of America. Christians do have the resources to produce positive changes in our culture.

I close with this story from an unknown author. There was a young man walking down a deserted beach just before dawn. In the distance he saw a frail old man. As he approached the old man, he saw him picking up stranded starfish and throwing them back into the sea. The young man gazed in wonder as the old man again and again threw the small starfish from the sand to the water. He asked, “Old man, why do you spend so much energy doing what seems to be a waste of time?” The old man explained that the stranded starfish would die if left in the morning sun.

“But there are thousands of beaches and millions of starfish!” exclaimed the young man. “How can you make any difference?”

The old man looked at the small starfish in his hand, and as he threw it to the safety of the sea, he said, “It makes a difference to this one!”

Your decision to address legacy giving can and will make a difference to New Yorker’s Family Research Foundation.