Economics Series: Faith and Economics

Do we have confidence in the economy? Do we have confidence in the stock market? These fundamental questions reflect our collective outlook on the financial landscape. It's important to consider whether we believe that if our investments in the stock market are executed successfully, we may achieve millionaire status in the future. Our perception of confidence in the economy can be assessed through various indicators, one of the most notable being the Consumer Confidence Index.

The Consumer Confidence Index is a standardized measure that offers valuable insights into future trends in household consumption and saving behaviors. According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD, 2024, para. 1), this index plays a crucial role in understanding consumers' economic mood, which can influence their spending decisions and overall economic activity. As people feel more confident about their financial situation, they are more likely to spend money, stimulating the economy.

Faith is an integral driver of confidence. In these times of uncertainty, we must recognize that we cannot treat the economy as our "celebrity"—something to be idolized or feared. Instead, we should strive to elevate our values and priorities. The principle of making Jesus great again (MJGA) emphasizes the importance of placing our faith and trust in higher ideals rather than solely in financial markets. Financial markets can let us down and put us in a downward spiral. We often idolize money instead of God. However, I have learned through the years of schooling that we should not put our faith in money but in God. God is the provider. Let's consider the parable of the ten talents.

The Parable of Ten Talents is a profound story found in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 25, verses 14 to 30. The Bible is the true source of knowledge. The Bible contains economic principles, including the Parable of the Ten Talents. This parable serves as a true teaching of Jesus, illustrating the importance of utilizing the gifts and resources that one has been entrusted with. In the narrative, a master prepares to go on a journey. He entrusts his property to three servants, each giving him a different amount of talent, which was a significant currency unit during that time. The first servant receives five talents, the second receives two, and the third receives one talent, reflecting the varying capacities and responsibilities given to each individual based on their abilities. The story unfolds as the servants are left to manage these talents in the absence of their master. The first two servants, motivated by a sense of duty and ambition, actively invest their talents, doubling their amounts upon the master's return. In contrast, the third servant, driven by fear and a lack of initiative, buries his single talent in the ground, doing nothing to increase its value. When the master returns, he praises the first two servants for their diligence and success, rewarding them with greater responsibilities and inviting them to share in his joy. However, the master expresses disappointment and anger towards the third servant, who had failed to take any action with the talent entrusted to him. The master rebukes him for his laziness and fear, ultimately casting him out into the darkness. This parable is rich in meaning, conveying themes of accountability, stewardship, and the consequences of inaction. It emphasizes the expectation that individuals should recognize their inherent abilities and resources and actively engage with them to produce fruitful outcomes.

The differing responses of the servants highlight the varied attitudes towards risk and responsibility, prompting reflection on how one approaches opportunities in life. Furthermore, the parable encourages readers to consider their own talents—whether they be skills, time, or material resources—and to contemplate how they are using these gifts in service to others and in fulfillment of their potential.

In essence, the Parable of Ten Talents serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of being proactive and responsible stewards of the blessings we have received (which comes from God himself, who is the central planner of our lives), urging individuals to embrace their capabilities as a Christ-follower and to strive for both financial growth and spiritual growth, both personally and within their communities. It challenges us to reflect on our lives and the choices we make in utilizing our talents, ultimately reinforcing the message that our actions—or lack thereof—carry significant weight in our spiritual and moral journey.

This passage exemplifies the crucial role of nurturing and stewarding our Christian faith while also emphasizing the importance of sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others. By examining this parable, we can glean valuable insights into how we should invest in the spiritual well-being and development of our children. Although worldly possessions and treasures can tarnish and disappear, heavenly treasures are everlasting and hold immense value. Therefore, it becomes essential for us to dedicate our limited time, limited resources, and limited efforts toward shaping the lives of future generations, ensuring they have a solid foundation in their faith. This investment is pivotal not only for the individuals themselves but also for the advancement of God's kingdom on earth, as they carry forward the teachings and love of Christ into their own lives and communities. My calling is to help people know, love, and serve Jesus Christ which is Waymaker Youth Mission's mission statement.

I vividly recall sitting in Woolsey Hall at Wichita State University when two amiable young men approached me, whom I knew as Jake and Josh (their fake names). These Christian fellows hailed from a nearby university, on a mission to nurture the faith of others and deepen their personal walks with God. With a palpable mix of nerves and enthusiasm, they invited me to join them for a Bible study. Their willingness to invest their precious time in me was a true testament to their commitment to growing my Christian faith.

I feel incredibly blessed to have met these two individuals, who were actively involved in a campus club dedicated to making a positive Christian impact at Wichita State. As a current Economics major with a prior degree in Ministry Studies, I am intrigued by the fascinating intersection of faith and economics, which inspires me to explore this correlation further.

Another scripture with economic tendencies is the true scriptural passage of Matthew 6:24, which states, "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." This verse highlights the conflict that arises when one tries to prioritize both spiritual devotion and material wealth.

The latter part of the passage, which says, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21), further emphasizes that our true values and loyalties are reflected in what we treasure most, which should be the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come. This creates a poignant question for believers: Do we invest our time, energy, and affections more in worldly pursuits like the stock market and financial stability, or do we focus on spiritual growth, fulfilling God’s commandments, and serving others in line with our faith? I choose the latter. However, the stock market is important as well but not as important as pursuing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who is our Lord and Savior. He is greater than our monetary pursuits.

Ultimately, the choice is between temporary earthly security and the eternal spiritual riches found in a relationship with God. It challenges individuals to evaluate their priorities and reassess where their true allegiance lies. Where does your treasure lie? Who is greater: money or your relationship with Jesus Christ?