When Religion Helps Bring Financial Security

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I would be interested in hearing Matt's take

on gambling, and how he would differentiate the MODERN public stock market from gambling, if indeed any substantial difference can be found.

Other than perhaps avoiding the purchase of sin-business stocks (liquor, etc.), how is a Christian supposed to know whether to buy, what to buy and when to sell---any differently than non-believers? I know he would say "pray about it". What else?

Muser of NM @ Jun 29, 2009 13:03:43 PM

As a person of faith

I wholeheartedly echo the sentiments here. My relationship with my God has been an important part of my financial journey, from the simple concepts like planning and saving, to the more extended ones like generosity for the poor and awareness of the needs of others.

Additionally, though this isn't expressed here, some churches are good sources of financial help. Mine operates almost like a large insurance program, with pools of money locally and even internationally to help those that are in trouble or who need a hand up. There's even a program that encourages members to donate to a fund to help third-world students go to school and obtain an education.

Traditionally, churches and families formed the social base of society. We've gotten away from that to a degree as government has become more and more insistent, but there are still very good and powerful reasons why those institutions are critical for the financial health of our society on a general level, to say nothing of the personal.

Thanks for the great article.

Chris Jones of UT @ Jun 29, 2009 12:53:22 PM

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Alpha Consumer

Alpha Consumer

Kimberly Palmer, senior editor for U.S. News & World Report, writes about how to save money, avoid scams, manage debt, and be a savvy shopper. Send your personal finance questions to her for expert money advice.


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