The Shepherd's Guide Through the Valley of Debt and Financial Change: A Comprehensive Manual for Financial Management, Counseling and Spiritual Guidance

By Flora L. Williams PhD MDiv RFC

The Shepherds Guide through the Valley of Debt and Financial Change is the most comprehensive manual for financial management, planning, counseling, and coaching available. This encyclopedic book (419 pages) contains the basic information and techniques with facts, references, illustrations, worksheets, and case studies. Besides the most crucial issues of today, unique features are 15 budgets/plans, addictions, divorce counseling, low-income resources, pre-marital education, adjustments to financial crises/downturns, funding for college, office politics, economic theology, pastoral care, and Scripture references. New concepts of financial freedom are presented. It is a practical resource management book for those who need the education themselves and equips them to assist others.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Aug 27, 2009
• ISBN: 9781452010670

Flora L. Williams PhD MDiv RFC

Rev. Dr. Flora L. Williams is Professor Emerita, Ordained Minister in the Church of the Brethren, Registered Financial Consultant, Church Musician, Wife, Mother of three, and three grandchildren. The faith journey is her most important venture. She credits accomplishments to the leading and energizing of the Holy Spirit. Her motto is to glorify God and serve others. She has served as university professor, accredited financial counselor, investment advisor, money coach, chaplain and interim/intern pastor. Her educational journey began at Manchester College and continued at Purdue University. After public school teaching for eight years, she taught for 32 years at Purdue University, the University of California at Davis, Jia Tong University in Shanghai, China, and the Viscosa Federal University in Brazil. After university retirement, she attended Bethany Theological Seminary earning the master of divinity. Flora has written 18 books on family economics, financial counseling and planning, one spiritual autobiography, and a book of her poetry. She has written over 100 research articles and papers on quality of life, family economics, counseling, crisis intervention, and poverty issues. She started the major in financial counseling and planning at Purdue University. She founded and directed the financial advising clinic at Purdue, named Outstanding Financial Counseling Center in the United States in 2001. Many awards include the Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest Indiana award, Golden Medallion for scholarship and encouraging women faculty/ students, Purdue University and Manchester College outstanding alumna awards, AFL-CIO Union Counseling Service Award, National Foundation for Credit Counseling contribution award, Whos Who in America, and Outstanding Achievement in Poetry by the International Society of Poets 2007. She has been on the board of directors for In-Charge Institute and the International Society for quality of life studies. She has written materials and tests for the NFCC to certify financial counselors. She is past president and distinguished fellow of the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education, an international association. She is a speaker in training professionals. She has worked with Habitat for Humanity as part of her clinic and with New Focus, a church program, as a financial coach. She speaks to community groups, churches, banquets, student groups, and disability support groups as she lost her right hand in an accident several years ago. She and her husband regularly do the worship services for nursing homes. She is substitute chaplain.

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© 2015 © 2009, revised 2014 Flora L. Williams, PhD, MDiv, RFC. All rights reserved.

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Published by AuthorHouse 10/19/2015

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Comments and suggestions for the author Flora L. Williams would be greatly appreciated. See address above.

Portions of this book may be reproduced with giving proper and complete reference to the author. Notification of where reproduced would be appreciated by the author.

Unless otherwise noted, scripture text is from the New International Version, copyright © 1994 by the Moody Bible Institute. Ryrie Study Bible Expanded Edition. Charles Caldwell Ryrie, Th.D., Ph.D.

…………………………………

Order other books by Flora L. Williams: - directly from author

Hand in Hand with God: Witnessing on the Way. Publish America. 2006.

Renewal: Spiritual Messages through a Collection of Flora’s Poetry

Arolf Publisher. 2014.

Springing Forth: Growing Younger While Older. West Bow Press a Division of Nelson and Zondervan. Forthcoming. Contact author for shipping.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rev. Dr. Flora L. Williams is Professor Emerita, Ordained Minister in the Church of the Brethren, Registered Financial Consultant, Church Musician, Wife, Mother of three, and three grandchildren. The faith journey is her most important venture. She credits accomplishments to the leading and energizing of the Holy Spirit. Her motto is to glorify God and serve others. She has served as university professor, accredited financial counselor, investment advisor, money coach, chaplain and interim/intern pastor.

Her educational journey began at Manchester College and continued at Purdue University. After public school teaching for eight years, she taught for 32 years at Purdue University, the University of California at Davis, Jia Tong University in Shanghai, China, and the Viscosa Federal University in Brazil. After university retirement, she attended Bethany Theological Seminary earning the master of divinity.

Flora has written 18 books on family economics, financial counseling and planning, one spiritual autobiography, and a book of her poetry. She has written over 100 research articles and papers on quality of life, family economics, resource management, counseling, crisis intervention, and poverty issues. She started the major in financial counseling and planning at Purdue University and the graduate program at Viscosa Federal University. She founded and directed the financial advising clinic at Purdue, named Outstanding Financial Counseling Center in the United States in 2001.

Many awards include the Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest Indiana award, Golden Medallion for scholarship and encouraging women faculty/ students, Purdue University and Manchester College outstanding alumna awards, AFL-CIO Union Counseling Service Award, National Foundation for Credit Counseling contribution award, Who’s Who in America, and Outstanding Achievement in Poetry by the International Society of Poets 2007. She has been on the board of directors for In-Charge Institute and the International Society for quality of life studies. She has written materials and tests for the NFCC to certify financial counselors. She is past president and distinguished fellow of the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education, an international association. She is a speaker in training professionals and has conducted seminars and intensive session. Participants were from around the world. She also trained union counselors so they could assist others. She has worked with Habitat for Humanity as part of her clinic and with New Focus, a church program, as a financial coach. Flora’s firm is Leona Financial Consulting.

She speaks to community groups, churches, banquets, student groups, and disability support groups as she lost her right hand in an accident several years ago. She and her husband regularly do the worship services for nursing homes. She provides music and memorial services.

Flora and her husband Leiw live in Lafayette where they enjoy and perform music, gardening. They attend conferences nationwide, giving key-note speeches and exhibiting their books.

THE SHEPHERD’S GUIDE

THROUGH THE

VALLEY OF DEBT AND FINANCIAL CHANGE

Financial Literacy and Therapy: - Theory, Knowledge, Education, and Practices

A Comprehensive Manual for

Financial Management, Counseling and Spiritual Guidance

Flora L. Williams, PhD, MDiv, RFC

Professor Emerita, Purdue University

Family Economist

Registered Financial Consultant

Ordained Minister, Church of the Brethren

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS    241196.jpg ◊◊◊

Many thanks go to Allen Kahler, District Minister South/Central District, Indiana, Church of the Brethren, for encouragement to complete this book.

I thank reviewers who offered helpful suggestions:

John Armstrong, Pastor Grace Lutheran Church, Columbus, Indiana; Tom August, Chaplain, Lafayette, Indiana; Jean Bauer, Family Economist, Professor University of Minnesota; Bonnie Braun, Extension Family Life Specialist, University of Maryland; Kirk Burnett, MBA, Managing Financial Counselor and Educator, CCCS, Lafayette, Indiana; Linda Davis, Ordained Minister and Executive Director, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, California; Eleanor Eaton, Church Leader and Editor, Lafayette, Indiana; Kirk Eicher-Miller, Staff Attorney, Indiana Legal Services; Tom Johnson, Director of Compassion Ministries, Evangelical Presbyterian, West Lafayette, Indiana; Ron Hawkins, Compassion Minister, Covenant Presbyterian, West Lafayette, Indiana; Herman Kaufman, District Minister Northern Indiana Church of the Brethren; Marilyn Lerch, Pastor Bedford, Pennsylvania and Coordinator of the Training in Ministry program Church of the Brethren; Melissa Maulding Extension Specialist Purdue University; Mary McKeefer, Worldwide Disciple Association, Purdue and DePauw Universities and Staff Director Kenya and Uganda; Cheryl Nettleman, Financial Adviser, Lafayette, Indiana; Dallas Oswalt, Lay Leader, Plymouth Church of the Brethren, Michigan and former ICRISAT director, India; William Pritchett, Minister, Lafayette, Indiana; Joe Redmon, Financial Counselor Purdue Employees Credit Union; Kristen Roop, Leader Church of the Brethren; Pat Rolfs, Retired English Teacher, Flora, Indiana; Sue Ross, Financial Advisor and MA, Bethany Theological Seminary; Bobbie Shaffett, Associate Extension Professor, Mississippi State University; Rolf Theen, Professor Emeritus Purdue University; Randy Vernon, Certifiied Financial Planner, Premier Financial, Lafayette, Indiana; John Wenger, Counselor, Anderson Psychiatric Clinic, Indiana; Rev. Myrna Long Wheeler, Chaplain Brethren Hillcrest Homes, LaVerne, California; Catherine Williams, Vice President of Financial Literacy, Money Management International; and LoraLu Williams, Teacher IVTC, Indianaoplis, Indiana.

I thank Sharon Danes, Professor and Family Economist, University of Minnesota for her authorship of Managing Disagreement and Conflict Over Money Within Couples. I thank Syble Solomon, Author, Life-Wise, for tips for communicating about money. Much appreciation is given for the authors and interviewees of case studies at the end of chapters.

Much appreciation is given to my husband Leiw Williams, my right-hand man, who encouraged me through the years and this endeavor.

Most of all, I thank Creator God for directing this work. He gave me the words to write and the energy to type. My study of the Word gave new insights for financial management.

THE SHEPHERD’S GUIDE THROUGH THE VALLEY OF DEBT AND FINANCIAL CHANGE

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Contents    241194.jpg ◊◊◊

Introduction

Following the Master Teacher

Pioneering the Paths

Education and Training

Seeking the Lost and Healing the Broken

Responses to Questions before Becoming Shepherds of Financial Management

1. The Shepherd’s Guide to Faithfulness

Righteousness

Faithfulness

A Litany - The Good Fight of Faith

The Great Shepherd’s Call

Urgent Call

Restoring Pastor, Compassion Minister, Educator, Outreach Director, Financial Counselor, Helping Professional, Mentor, and Money Coach as Shepherd

The Great Shepherd Walks with Shepherds in Financial Issues

Equipped to Answer the Call

Goals for Counseling in Financial Management

Opportunities for Financial Counseling and Education

Giving Hope

Practice M’s of Financial Ministry

Family Economics Framework for Guiding Faithfulness

Outcomes and Results of Financial Activities

New Purposes and Rewards from Financial Management

Step One is Setting Goals and Outcomes

2. The Shepherd Tends to Those in Financial Management Steps and Crisis Intervention

Financial Summary and Plan

Financial Management

Steps in Financial Management

Cash Flow Analysis

Financial Counseling and Education

Financial Management Counseling Areas

Financial Management Recommendation Checklist

Counseling Techniques in Financial Management

Questioning and Listening

Questions to Ask

Why People Do Not Listen

Supporting the Dream

Summary

Crisis Intervention Management

Illustrations of Financial Crises

Budget to Control the Bleeding

Time is of Essence

Technical and Spiritual Responses

Need for Warning

Prayer for the Journey to Financial Recovery

3. In the Valley of the Shadows, Financial Management in Times of Distress

Walking in the Storms

Symptoms of Financial Distress or Disorder

Fear Abounds

Financial Management Principles Inferred by Real People

Living Above One’s Means

Walking through Valleys to Blessings with Mentor Programs

Resource Power for Those Who Have Lost a Job

Getting a Job or a Position with The Shepherd’s Guides

Handling Office Politics – The Shepherd’s Guide

Transition from Homelessness or Midlife Crisis

Referring

Prayer

Financial Fitness and Faithfulness - Change Exercises

4. Paths to Righteousness in Budgeting and Spending Plans, Analyzing Expenditures

Budgets or Spending Plans

The Can Plan

Moving Out to Independence with Choices

Financial Management Notebook System: Plan, Control, Record, and Evaluate

Techniques, Tricks, and Systems that Work for the Manager Through the Years

Plan or Budget Geared to Priorities for Determining Income Needed

Cash Flow Analysis

Shepherd’s Guide for Counseling and Crisis Intervention Sessions:

Financial Planner’s Guide: Financial Assessment and Planning

5. Call to Change Financial Management through Counseling Paths

Underlying Emotional and Social Problems in Financial Management

Love-based Approach: A Spiritual Program of Recovery

Group Benefits

Financial Management to Change Cognitive Behavior

Facing Reality and Responses to Counselors about Financial Management

Recommendations to Change Based on Knowledge, Willingness, and Ability

Techniques for Overcoming the Barrier of Inability

The Challenge

Conclusion

Prayer about Change: Serenity Prayer

6. Financial Management Unique to Life Stages

Decision-Making

Singles Labeled as Independent Stage

Beginning Families Labeled as Adjustment Stage

Young Children Accumulation

Grade School and Junior High Children Expanding Stage

High School Youth Middle Stage

Divorce Decisions

Remarried or Blended Families Readjustment Stage

Older Youth Launching Stage

The Shepherd’s Role with the Youth, Wanderers, and Nomads

College or Trade School Funding Decisions and Encouragement

Retirement Decisions Contracting OR Expanding Stage

After Retirement Senior Stage

Stage of the Final Journey

Communicating the Move for Parents, Changes and Fears

7. The Shepherd Marries the Couple: Premarital Counseling for a Journey of Love and Business, Communicating About Money

Theology for the Journey

Premarital Counseling in Financial Management

Building Blocks for a Foundation for the New Love Union and the New Business

What is Wrong with the Following Action?

Are You Ready for Love and Economics? Or Where is Development Necessary?

Reality Game for Real

Choosing a New Household Management System

Communication Comedy of a Real Couple

Choosing between a Christian and a Conventional Marriage

Ten Tips to Help You Talk to Your Honey about Money

Managing Disagreement and Conflict Over Money Within Couples

The Two-Way Part of Difficult Communication

Showing Respect in Communication

Make Criticism Productive

Silent Communication

Position Yourself in Your Circle of Influence

Managing Disagreement & Conflict over Money – Worksheet 1 and 2

The Nature of Money Disagreements and Conflicts

Prayer

8. Leading to Greener Pastures and Still Waters through Financial

Management

Hazards Along the Way

Hazard on the Road - the Wolves

Preventative Action

Friendly Persuaders

Elderly Abuse

Saying No

Rapid Response if Victimized

Reducing Risks on the Road - Insurance

Choice of Deductible for Car Insurance

Divorce Insurance

Diversification of Income and Savings or Investments

Hazard on the Road – Change in Business Cycle

Increased Expectations and Decreased Value of Dollar

Credibility Insurance

Income Needed along the Road

Non-Money Income

Employee Benefits

Money Income Sources

Community Resources as Expanded Income

Tax Credits and Breaks

The Challenges in Spending

Comparing Before Buying or Traveling

Compare Total Costs: Interest, Upkeep, Utilities, Over Time

Principles of Buying

Analyzing and Reducing Food Costs

Child Care Arrangements

Analyzing and Reducing Transportation Costs

Cutting Costs of Transportation

Analyzing and Reducing Housing Costs

How Much House Can One Afford?

Initial Cost of Home Ownership

Reducing Closing Costs

Down Payment Possibilities

The 60/40 Rules

Steps to Meet the Threat of Foreclosure

Prepayment of Mortgage Decision

Energy Use and Reduction

Housing Cost Reductions

Proceeding with Consumer Rights

Shepherd’s Role in Consumer Questions

Communication in Uncertain Times (A Summary)

9. Not Enough Pasture For the Poor With Us

Shepherd’s Role – Anointed to Give Good News to the Poor

Definitions of Poverty

Who are the Poor Among Us?

Discrimination or Insensitivity

Single Parents

Interventions in the Poverty Cycle

The Shepherd’s Intervention in the Poverty Cycle

The Shepherd as Part of a Team

Referrals

Invitation and Assistance

Government Intervention in the Poverty Cycle with Programs

Income Sources and Resources

Educational Intervention in the Poverty Cycle

Employment Intervention in the Cycle

Mobilizing Resources

Mobilizing Resources for Marvin

Setting Policies about Giving to Strangers and Members

Sharing Church Resources for Strangers and Members

Sharing the Gifts

The Shepherd Guides in Counseling

Conversation that Counts, Cures

Responsibility with Money Issue

Spirituality, Hope, and Welcoming

Shepherds Meet the Challenges with Diverse Programs

Scenarios for Education and Action

WIC – Women, Infants and Children - A Case Study

The Prisoner and the Sentenced Family – A Case Study

Salvation Army Fights Poverty - A Case Study

Ryan Works With Homeless Children Who Teach Him - A Case Study

In Retrospect

Prayer Directed by James I and 2

10. Out of the Snares of Spending and Gambling Addictions

Misdirected Search

More Explanation of Addictions

The Power of Addictions

The Power of the Spirit

Gambling

How to Know if the Person has a Pathological Gambling Disorder

The Shepherd’s Guide through the Valley of Gambling Addiction for Recovery

Recommended Financial Management Actions

The Shepherd’s Guide in Summary Steps

Gambling Recovery 12 Steps Prayer

Overspending

How to Know if the Person Has a Problem?

Signs of Compulsive Spending

The Shepherd’s Guide through the Valley of Overspending

Theological or Biblical Considerations

Psychological Considerations

Impulse Buying: Tool to Follow the Spirit or Disaster for Finances

Reducing Impulsive Spending

Guide for the Shepherd

Power of Referral Source: Consumer Credit Counseling Service

Power of On-Line Services

Power of Scripture and Prayer

Over Spenders’ Twelve Steps to Recovery

11. Caught in the Thickets of Credit and Debt

The Shepherd’s Guide to Assist Credit Management

Reasons for Captivity Help Prescribe the Release

Why the Shepherd Should be the First to Know

What Those under Shepherd’s Care Do Not Know Does Hurt

Recognizing the Steps to Captivity under the New C’s

Dangers in the Credit Path which the Shepherd Should Warn

Conflicts in the Path

Awareness of the Wolves, Scams and Frauds

Cleaning up the Credit Path

Check Annually and Correct any Mistakes in the Credit Record

Getting out of Captivity, Out of Bondage, Out of the Pits

The Self-administered Program for Getting Out of Debt

Loan Consolidation – the Road to Disaster

Bankruptcy – Using a Canon to Kill a Fly

Handling Medical Debt

Selecting a Credit Counseling Agency

Facing Reality by Knowing the Credit Process

Challenges for College Students

Repayment, Forgiveness, and Loan modification

Victory in Managing Credit - Preventing Foreclosure

Tools and Case Studies to Educate and Use for Decisions

12. Light Side of the Money Trail

A Balanced Life is a Blessed Life

Scriptural Basis

Worries and Risks

Why People Do Not Save

Excuses

Procrastination

Motivating People to Save and Invest

Why Save? Save or Sink

Choices in One Stage of Life Determine Choices in Another Stage

Knowledge Motivates One to Save

Techniques in Saving

Savings and Investments for College Funding, Retirement, and Estate Planning

Strategies in Investing

Cost of Delay

Diversification

Choosing the Characteristic of an Investment

Working with an Advisor or Other Professional

Socially Responsible Investing

Retirement Planning

Questions that Summarize Readiness for Retirement

Assumptions and Risks Used in Planning

What Will Income and Expenses Be? Utilizing a Worksheet

How Much Do I Need to Save? Utilizing Time Value of Money

Can I Retire Early? (See chapter 6 for illustrations of retiring early.)

What is the Employer’s Retirement Plan?

Estate Planning

What If I Were to Die Tomorrow?

Estate Planning Begins

Descent and Distribution

The Will to Be Updated

Tools for Charity in Estate Planning

Net Worth Statement and Assessment for Adjusting

Cash Flow

Financial Report

Illustrations to Educate the Shepherd to Assist Others – Case Studies

13. Sharing the Pasture Generosity and Stewardship

Sharing is The Plan for People of the Pasture

Types of Sharing

Sharing in the Economic Plan

Challenges for the Shepherd

Distractions from the Narrow Path

Commercialism and Materialism

Decreased Real Income

Addictions, Passions, and Money

Risk Involved

How to Share More

Sharing with the Poor

Behind the Scenes of Generosity

Trusting God

Reasons for Giving or Not Giving

Reasons for Giving

Resistance and Barriers

Reasons for Stinginess or Lack of Generosity:

Questioning the Rich Young Man

Changing Attitudes, Behavior and Management

Tactics to Increase Generosity

Biblical Motivation

More Scriptures to Contemplate as Motivation

Making a Difference as Motivator for Sharing

Habits for Motivating Generosity

Education

Accountability Plus

Techniques

Prayers to Motivate Generosity and Sharing

How Much Does the Lord Require?

Responding to the Call to Give All

Responding to the Call to Choose to Share

Stewardship or Care of the Pasture and God’s Provisions

Stewardship Defined

Gifts Used in Caring for the World

Responsible Response

Answering the Call of the Great Shepherd as Stewards

14. Spirituality of Financial Management Rebirth

The Call to Crisis Intervention and Financial Change

Shepherd Counseling Process for Financial Rebirth

Spirituality and Financial Rebirth

Conversion in Economic Life

Promises for Change on the Journey

Spiritual Rebirth of Financial Behavior

Lifestyle Defined and Evaluated for Making Changes

Heart Examination

Changes in Goods and Services in Lifestyle or Standard of Living

An Economic Model of Wholeness – Guiding Framework I

The Economic and Psychological Meaning of Money – Guiding Framework II

Balanced Activities as Response to God’s Gifts – Guiding Framework III

Economic Model of Security – Guiding Framework IV

Adjusting Family Cooperation to Changes

Ability to Adjust in Changing Household Management

Weekend Vows for Renewal

New Organization under New Management

Personal Management of the Financial Commandments

An Economic and Financial Management Model – Guiding Framework V

Sunk Costs

Financial Renewal after Death

An Economic Downturn Necessitates Financial Rebirth – Guiding Framework VI

New Goals and New Roles in Life Renewed

THE SHEPHERD’S GUIDE THROUGH THE VALLEY OF DEBT AND FINANCIAL CHANGE

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INTRODUCTION    234195.jpg ◊◊◊

Shepherds are pastors, priests, rabbis, compassion ministers, educators, directors of outreach, mentors, financial counselors, helping professionals, money coaches, and others assisting in financial change. This technical and inspirational book is for those interested in personal financial management and spiritual wholeness combined with educating and counseling. Although many are familiar to shepherds, Scripture verses are applied to financial management. Illustrations are presented to sensitize shepherds to the financial predicaments of people. This book has counseling approaches, tools and information to assist individuals and families in crisis and in change. The content is comprehensive and in touch with today’s economic issues.

Shepherds and those anointed to release the captives¹ are called to be guides through the storms of life, giving direction and strength for the journey of faith up and down the money trail. Barriers on the path to abundant life include down turns in the economy, financial despair, love of possessions more than God, and conflict in use of money. Some do not have enough money to function well. Some are so preoccupied with their perceived inadequacy they do not contribute to the Kingdom of God financially. Many are misdirected by culture’s lures and selfish, greedy ambitions.

Increasingly, conflict occurs between

* Living for the Kingdom of God

versus

* Living in the kingdom of Human Beings.

The two competing kingdoms clash in money matters. Conflicts between these allegiances are evident in financial anxieties, foreclosures, burdensome indebtedness, bankruptcies, spending beyond income, and family dissention.

Because financial affairs are complex, many people are overwhelmed. Many are overcome with the cares of the world. While some people do not care if finances are in chaos, some do not know how to change. People are possessed by possessions and the powers of darkness. Giving is at an all-time low. Indebtedness and credit are at an all-time high. Churches, as well as parishioners, suffer as the hurricanes of financial turmoil blow anxiety and uncertainty. Many families are living at the edge financially and some have already fallen into a pit.

Following the Master Teacher

Conflicts and confusion about finances are reflected in Jesus’ teachings. There are 2,172 references in the Bible to money and possessions, three times more than love, seven times more than prayer, and eight times more than belief. Of 38 parables, Jesus addressed money and possessions in 17 of them. Uncertainties in the direction to travel financially are addressed in the Scriptures more than other topics. Evidently, the financial route is one of the most critical spiritual dilemmas.

As Jesus was profound, practical and pertinent, shepherds must be also. This book illustrates steps for overcoming barriers on the trail and for walking with people in their predicaments and decisions along the way. Hope and means for survival are presented.

Jesus used such methods as questioning, story-telling, and data-gathering. He addressed the everyday things of life. He presented alternatives, demanded action – take up your bed and walk and go and sin no more. He spoke with authority to drive out the tormenting spirits. He practiced prayer, spending time alone with the Great Shepherd to receive direction for the journey.

Jesus met people in their financial decisions and suffering. This gave an opportunity for redemption, healing, and guidance. If shepherds and counselors are to continue the work of Jesus, they can do no less. They must be equipped to encourage people in their struggles with financial faithfulness.

Pioneering the Paths

This book is based on pioneering efforts of the author Flora Williams, her students, and colleagues. Her research at Purdue University included quality of life, welfare reform, financial problems, poverty issues, loan consolidation, and housing costs. She wrote materials for certifying financial and credit counselors. She taught family resource management, family economics, consumer economics, retirement planning, insurance, financial counseling and planning for 32 years at Purdue, University of California at Davis, Jia Tong University in Shanghai, China, and Federal University of Vicosa in Brazil. During 24 years of that time, she started and directed a teaching clinic for clients of all socioeconomic levels. She received the award for the outstanding counseling center in the nation by the Association for Financial Counseling and Education in 2001. She earned the Master of Divinity from Bethany Theological Seminary in 2006. Her experiences combine study of theology, pastoral work, and listening to the Spirit for personal financial management.

Readers may see this study as more than they want to know. Therefore, the detail, the stories, and the steps are investments in reading time for expanding the professional’s think tank. When called even unexpectedly, the shepherd will be ready to provide appropriate guidance. Beyond compassion, the shepherd is ready with useful questions, effective words, needed financial information, and motivating action.

Education and Training

The financial predicaments and possibilities increase the shepherds’ skills in helping people as well as helping themselves with financial decisions. Shepherds may not readily see predicaments in other people because they have been trained to think money is not important. They think that good Christians should not pay attention to money whereas, in actuality, they think about money all the time. How can the church teach people to ignore troublesome financial issues when Jesus obviously thought they were important? Many shepherds know so little about financial counseling because the church and seminaries encourage them to ignore the issues for themselves and for people under their care. Customarily, people do not seek counseling from shepherds in financial crisis or decision-making. They perceive the shepherd does not know financial principles or practice them. This book provides remedies for overcoming financial mistakes. These issues can no longer be ignored. The most frequent family problem is finances. Many divorces are related to financial problems.

Shepherds feel vulnerable because they have problems themselves. This book can better equip those who have not had adequate training to do counseling in personal financial or money management. Thus, they will be in position to assist people with financial management. Giving to church, getting out of debt, and budget counseling are included as well as other management tasks. How to respond to the call for abundant life in God’s love, peace, and provisions is clearly shown.

Seeking the Lost and Healing the Broken

This book illustrates financial suffering, the dark side of money, caused by a culture which says money is everything. Shepherds are called to seek the lost and heal the sick (Luke 19:9-10). Many people are lost in the complexities and pressures of finances. Many are broken in relationship with God because of wrong financial priorities and practices. Some are just plain broke and need help in finding pasture. Scripture tells shepherds to instruct those who are rich in the 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. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share (1 Timothy 6:17-18 NASB).

Precipitating events and being lost in the valley can cause people to want to change. In addition, the nudging of the Spirit creates a want to change. Perhaps they see a brother’s or sister’s need while thinking they cannot even meet their own needs. If priorities are askew, the Spirit helps put them in balance.

The book also shows paths for righteousness and the light side of money. These are the why and how to give more to the work of the kingdom. Ways to motivate generosity are shown. A higher calling to those comfortable in financial wealth is given to sensitize them to the financial distress of people. Shepherds are called, as the old cliché says, to Comfort the afflicted and afflict the comforted. The call is to move from comfort to simple living to generosity to joy of giving.

Shepherds may be hesitant about expanding their service to counseling in financial affairs. Financial consultants may be hesitant about expanding their expertise to the theology of financial faithfulness. Therefore, shepherds and counselors can identify with people who do not want to learn in new areas of life.

Learning to counsel in financial dilemmas makes shepherds stronger and wiser. They will be considered more valuable as a resource. Concepts in this book will help grow the church family.

Shepherds are called to study financial counseling as part of the call to spiritual development. This book equips them for the new calling. Shown are principles and processes of counseling; financial crisis intervention; the nature of financial management and mismanagement; and how to develop the trusted relationship between counselor and individual. Thus, by expanding their talents, shepherds can be ready to answer the call from the Great Shepherd and those in their care. In learning this response, they are counseled by the Great Counselor who will never leave nor forsake them in this challenging work. Shepherds cannot neglect the call because they do not care. They cannot have excuses because they do not know. Shepherds need not fear this new call when they work with the Great Shepherd. God is already in their lives, prompting them to seek knowledge useful to work with people they meet and serve.

Chapters contain ideas for sermons, information for assisting in financial decisions, inspiration referenced by Scripture about financial management, financial terminology for conversations, practical steps, and approaches for financial rebirth with spiritual growth.

Responses to Questions before Becoming Shepherds of Financial Management

1.  In the reading of how to help other people in their financial dilemmas and management, shepherds study financial management for themselves. Knowledge, skills, and attitudes can be applied to their own financial behavior and working within their own families.

2.  In response to the criticism of managing one’s family before leading other people (Titus, 1 Timothy 3), the shepherd’s own family financial problems make him or her more understanding of other families. There is the moral gap between what the shepherd knows or wants to do and what he or she does as described by Paul in Romans 7:15.

The shepherd may find difficulty in leading people to levels that he or she has not experienced. The shepherd, for example, can describe the peace and satisfaction resulting from making severe adjustments in financial management. Peace comes from complete surrender to God no matter what changes need to be made.

3.  In fearing that the shepherd is accused of practicing law when counseling in financial affairs, these are responses:

Saying this may be just an excuse for not handling technical information. Rather than practicing law, the shepherd practices love.

Useful information is given, not filling out legal forms which would be practicing law.

Alternatives are presented from which the person chooses. This is not legal advice.

Questions are listed when referring to other professionals such as attorneys.

Education is conveyed rather than representing a person at court.

Courage is inspired by knowing the legal, bankruptcy, divorce, or eviction processes.

Some peace is felt by knowing where one is in the legal process and what options and time are available for next steps. The shepherd may look in a manual or call another professional for these details. Reference persons with unbiased and non-vested interests are part of the team working together on behalf of the person. The shepherd knows the questions and issues. Options and knowledge are increased when the shepherd talks with the team member specialized in a given area.

4.  The established definition of financial peace and freedom is planning, getting out of debt, having a reserve in savings, having a sound plan for retirement, and receiving income from varied sources that increase with inflation. An expanded peace for individuals and families in distress and crisis is not as the world understands (John 14:27). Financial peace of mind and financial freedom promoted by the shepherd are defined here in contrast to those promoted by the financial planning industry:

knowing there are options;

having ability to make adjustments in lifestyle and financial behavior;

gaining courage to take one step, no longer captive to the situation, fear or habit;

moving in spite of fears and anxieties;

placing financial needs, resources, and practices under God’s control;

identifying what will not change as well as what will change;

listening to the Spirit for day to day financial behavior;

being faithful although not always successful;

being content in want or plenty; and

trusting God to provide love, peace, and provisions for sustenance.

Flora L.Williams

The Shepherd’s Guide through the Valley of Debt and Financial Change

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Chapter 1. The Shepherd’s Guide to Faithfulness

The development of blending theology and economics for faithfulness is presented in this book. Theology supports study of financial affairs for work in the kingdom of God. The proclamation of God’s gifts for his people is the beginning of wisdom. The Master Teacher addressed financial issues. Practical, real life application in financial management for today’s financial issues are presented. Steps for the shepherd to guide financial management through the valley of the shadows to the table of blessings are illustrated.

The theology of personal finances under-girding financial counseling is new on the horizon. Victory over captivity and fear comes from recognizing our financial weaknesses, our financial sins, and turning to the Great Shepherd for wisdom and courage (Acts 13:26). New creations in financial management focus on the good news of the resurrection rather than on life consisting of lots of goodies in a materialistic culture. Salvation comes through recognizing our moral debt. Salvation includes the change in financial behavior and forgiveness through saving grace. Thus, financial management is an outward reflection of inward transformation.

God touches heart, soul, mind, and strength when we come to him for financial guidance. The greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. This is interpreted to love God by using financial resources for the glory of God and our neighbor’s good. Loving God is using one’s mind in financial management. Loving God in one’s heart is controlling the use of money directed by a Godly conscience. Strength is used to resolve problems by implementing new alternatives and acting with energy from the Spirit.

The Great Shepherd, through individual shepherds, picks up those who have fallen into the pit of financial despair, protects those living on the edge financially, rescues those from evil temptation in the world, and heals brokenness. Brokenness can be in financial attitude or behavior. Brokenness can be when there is an imbalance between spending and sharing; between present and future provisions. Brokenness is a separation from God due to preoccupation with work, financial anxieties, and financial mistakes.

The shepherd can help overcome financial obstacles to spiritual growth particularly in times of crisis when people may be more receptive to renewal. Information and experience provided in this book equip shepherds to help overcome spiritual, social, mental, and spiritual obstacles. People may not believe obstacles to financial and spiritual renewal can be overcome. The disciples in Mark 10:26 were even more amazed and said to each other ‘Who then can be saved?’ Jesus said, With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God (10:27, NIV).

The journey leads to the choice of becoming new creations with total commitment to the God of love. An overarching theme is the promise … seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well (Matthew 6:33). Living for God’s kingdom is allowing God to be King of one’s heart and to reign over financial decisions and actions. When the Kingdom of God is sought first, trust is in needs being supplied. Priorities are established. Trusting God is believing that in counseling and prayer people can receive alternatives for resolving financial issues. Practices include frugality, giving generously, and investing wisely, both talents and gold. Travelers are blessed so they can share and be a blessing to those in their path.

Spiritual rewards make life worth living. The spiritual life gives the purpose and the courage to walk in obedience – putting Jesus’ into practice. The Spirit gives the rewards. The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22 NKJ) develops as financial expenses are trimmed and plans developed. Responsible financial behavior is harvested in love for other people, joy in giving, peace rather than financial anxieties, longsuffering in living with inadequate resources, kindness in sharing money and resources, goodness rather than worldliness, faithfulness in finances, gentleness with those who owe and need forgiveness, and self-control in spending and saving.

Righteousness

Abundant life in God’s purposes is possible when we seek righteousness with finances with family, with neighbors, and with God. If any of these are out of sync with any of the others, communication is hampered or stifled.

Right with God seeks the divine will and purpose, not personal preferences. Worship of any other gods before him is not right. Trust and obedience are prerequisites for work in God’s kingdom. The Spirit’s guidance and grace are available to people as they struggle in the marketplace, in the workplace, in recreation, and in the family. The burden of providing in the complicated market system is cast upon the Lord. He cares for all his creation including people who have strayed from paths of righteousness.

Right with family members includes pursuing peace as much as possible on one’s part. Honesty must prevail in all financial affairs. Spouses cannot be cheating in any way or in family responsibilities. Family members cannot be secretive or suspicious in financial matters. Right with one’s family includes faithfulness. No other person, thing, or addiction comes before one’s spouse. Provision for children and other people is based on unselfishness, not greed or envy. When right with family, God forgives us as we forgive them. Money, therefore, cannot be used for revenge, to get even, or to control others in our lives.

Right with finances with neighbors and businesses includes honesty, not withholding what has been promised for the work of God’s kingdom, giving to the poor, resisting greed and covetousness. It also includes managing well, not ignoring talents/money, saving, and not trying to buy the gift of God with money (Acts 8:18-21). It includes asking forgiveness for our financial mistakes, addictions, and poor stewardship. Right with finances includes allowing the Spirit to direct the distribution of resources to spending, saving, and sharing. Salvation is available for those who fall short of putting into practice the teachings from Scripture. Salvation is healing the brokenness in any of the relationships.

Rewards in financial management come from righteousness in education, counseling, and support groups. For though a righteous person falls seven times, he or she rises again, but the wicked are brought down by calamity (Proverbs 24:16). A righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers from them all… (Psalm 34:19).

Faithfulness

Financial faithfulness is the outward reflection of inward spiritual wholeness in response to God’s gifts and faithfulness. The Lord God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth…he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. …God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us (Acts 17:24-27). We can live, move and have our being in Christ in financial decisions (Acts 17:28).

Paradoxes must be understood in seeking faithfulness in finances. The Old Testament teaching is living under the rule of the tithe. The New Testament teaching is living under the gift of grace, giving as led by the Spirit, with some people giving much more than a tithe and some much less. People are promised by some preachers today that faithfulness brings blessings financially, known as prosperity theology. On the other hand, followers are to lose their lives for Christ’s sake, accept the cost of discipleship, and bear their cross. If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me (Matthew 16:24). And yet Jesus said, …do not worry…your heavenly Father knows that you need them…and all these things will be given to you as well if you seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness ( Matthew 16: 31-33). Joseph, in the Old Testament, the first financial planner, advised saving in the plentiful years for the lean years, planning and saving a portion. Jesus cautioned to have no thought for tomorrow although He praised the faithful steward for multiplying returns on investments rather than hiding them or doing nothing. In creation (Genesis 1:31) God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. In John 3:16, God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life whereas in 1 John 2:15 it says, Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world – the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes, and the boasting of what he has and does – come not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.

People are called to be new creations, fully committed to God. Thus, they try de-programming themselves from worldly patterns and being transformed in financial management. The entire personhood is changed and remolded. This includes money use, management, communication, purchasing goods and services, and distributing to sharing and saving. Meditation on Scriptural teaching can change desires and instruct application. Transformation changes one’s identification and authority. The new creation depends upon God, not wealth or the world’s means to security. The new creation meditates on the Scriptures and praying rather than striving to fit into the world’s mold. New creations give control of their finances to God (Luke 14:33) and, thereby, control addictions.

Followers may experience rejection, perhaps even persecution in subtle ways since the world does not understand this transformation, this allegiance to God. As the supreme value of the American culture is personal independence, the idea of dependence on God, following his commandments, and walking in God’s authority and security is repulsive and threatening to some people and, therefore, they are vocal against the mention of God for a criteria for change.

When people love God more than their possessions, they become financially faithful. God is loved more than possessions in financial faithfulness. Temptations like greed, arrogance, hard-heartedness, other gods, lust, covetousness, jealousy, and the world’s passions are overcome. God calls his followers to confession, to repentance, and to obedience as they learn from making mistakes in financial affairs.

The shepherd in counseling paves the way for individuals and families to choose the options best for them. The assumption in the free-enterprise system is that the individual or the family are the best judge of their own interests, goals, and dreams, given their resources as they see them. Therefore, people will be more efficient if left to their own discernment than if someone tells them what to do. This is assuming the Spirit is speaking to the heart, mind, soul, and strength for their unique situation and purpose.

The shepherd in financial counseling paves the way for the Great Shepherd’s power and leading. Alternatives become apparent. In choosing the best for them at the time, given their expanded spiritual and financial resources, people are empowered. Rather than the shepherd saying Cut out this or that, each individual decides where to trim expenses which clarifies his or her values. Security through faithfulness is the reward for fulfilling God’s purposes unique to the individual. Joy is found in serving God and sharing with other people.

Illustration of the Shepherd’s Action. Karen is assumed to be the best judge of her spiritual and material needs compared to a professional counselor. However, in casual conversation she seeks the pastor’s guidance. Karen says long distance calls to her mother across the sea are needed and she is willing to cut out some expenses, be more frugal, or increase income to pay for the calls. The pastor suggests alternative Tele-services, alternate days and hours, limits to time talking, writing a letter, additional e-mails, etc. The pastor is sensitive to Karen’s loneliness and suggests different ways for fulfilling it. Pastor and Karen pray for defining need, ideal, and viewpoint of God at this time and place. They discuss lifestyle choices under the auspices of seeking first the kingdom of God and righteousness realizing things and services will be added as needed. They pray for increased trust in God to provide and answer dilemmas.

A Litany - The Good Fight of Faith

One: Too often many embrace the ways of the world, only to deny the gospel.

Too often we buy what media sells – entertainment rather than contentment

Too often we succumb to the advertisements that call us to be gluttons of greed rather granters of grace.

Too often we fail to challenge voices of destructive power, giving silent consent to abusive power in families, churches, nation and world.

Too often the lure of self-interest overwhelms our call to love God, especially when faithfulness calls us to invest time or money.

Too often we follow the consumer-culture call to clamor for wealth and power at the expense of our neighbors near and far.

Too often we forget that we are not made by this world, but born of God.

All: We belong to God!

We will run from all these things and follow what is right and good.

We will pursue a Godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness

(1 Timothy 6:11-12 NLT).

One: Let us invest ourselves in kingdom living, that we may take hold of life that is really life.

The Great Shepherd’s Call

In the midst of financial crisis, bewilderment and anxieties, the Great Shepherd calls shepherds to give direction and peace. In Jesus’ first sermon, he stated the activities that God had called him to perform. Shepherds can take the same path.

Direction and peace are achieved by helping people prioritize financial decisions, change thought processes, and assist in specific financial actions. As called to bear each other’s burdens, comfort is shown by grieving together knowing that God is crying too. As God went before and with the people in the Exodus, God is present in the crisis and leading forward. Comfort is shown by accompanying people to court or being with them during a frightening financial experience. The call is for new directions and actions spiritually, not for a patch of financial help, just increasing income, or simply getting out of debt. The individual has perhaps conquered the crisis emotionally. The financial disaster in the aftermath calls for counseling. The Great Shepherd also moves people out of their comfort zone to take risks, to manage finances under New Management.

A time of crisis is a call for decisions under new allegiance to the Lordship of the Kingdom. This call is possible with the Great Counselor bestowing courage through prayer. Identifying resources gives hope and a new commitment to God. Strength comes from using and acting on renewed personal resources, family resources, and community resources. Personal resources include recalling the times and events in which one survived and being aware of what one is doing now that is right. Resource for change is possible upon believing the power of the greatest Resource and accepting it through prayer at the beginning, the end, and throughout the crisis management process. The Lord knows what people need and wants to give them good gifts. However, he wants to talk with people about them. Praying Your kingdom come is opening communication, inviting him to listen and direct financial decisions. Although it may not lead to success financially, it will lead to faithfulness, contentment in circumstances, and peace.

The Great Shepherd calls shepherds to lead people through financial crises to become new creations in Christ in the area of finances. Now the whole of life is no longer hidden from the spotlight of the Son. Precipitating events are frequent: People lose their jobs, face house foreclosure, consider bankruptcy, cannot afford their current lifestyle, lose educational opportunities, have astronomical expenses from an accident, experience a medical catastrophe, cannot share, live above their means, are frightened that they have not prepared for retirement, are ill equipped to handle changes forced upon them, harbor blame or guilt over financial mistakes that are ruining relationships and life expectations, have money illness, have a car breakdown or family breakup, get into tax trouble, and are captive to creeping indebtedness. When another crisis occurs and brings despair with its related expenses, it confuses, devastates, and depresses. A crisis occurs with a public exposure. Panic sets in upon seeing the credit score, credit reports, and/or debt load preventing their employment or qualification for a mortgage.

Shepherds, the anointed ones, as called in Isaiah 61, give good news to the poor, heal the brokenhearted, proclaim freedom for the captives and release the prisoners from darkness. One form of captivity today is obsession with possessions, credit and debt enslavement, poisonous addictions, greed and selfishness, anxiety from sudden loss of income, weight of guilt, selfish ambitions, heavy financial burdens, financial fears, and lack of control over culture’s temptations (See 2 Timothy 3:6). Captivity includes earthly desires that dominate, covetousness, and conformity to a pattern set by the culture that does not honor God or build character.

Shepherds continue the work of Jesus by instructing in finances. He said, I have come in order that you might have life – life in all its fullness (John 10:10). The call is to share the gifts of hope, this joy, and peace which comes from obedience to Scriptural principles. The Spirit leads in everything including financial affairs.

Shepherds are called to the tumult of life’s wild restless sea, raging in hearts and minds over finances. They are called to calm the sea and/or are given strength to follow Christ amidst tumultuous decisions and struggles. They are called to invite people to love Christ more than these – money, possessions, the worldly passions, security in wealth, even one’s own life (Luke 14:26). They are called to encourage people to serve and glorify God in their finances. Shepherds are called to explain how finances are involved in loving God with heart, soul, mind and strength and accepting God’s infinite love. The purpose is to grow in faithfulness although success, as the world defines, is not achieved nor problems solved. The goal is submission to God. The faith journey leads to Faith controlling them not their worldly passions.

Shepherds are called to assist all people whether they are the Jones, families trying to keep up with the Jones, or those trying to survive. Priorities are reexamined for seeking first God’s kingdom and righteousness, and all these other things will be given to you as well. Jesus taught How hard it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God (Mark 10:23). The dilemma is how wealth controls one rather than directed to worthwhile endeavors under God’s control. Shepherds are called to address the conflict, the neuroses of living in both kingdoms of God and of human beings. No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth (Matthew 6:24). Instruct those who are rich in the 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. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share (I Timothy 6:17-18 NAS).

Urgent Call

Shepherds are called to seek the lost, not just wait until someone walks into our office. They pray for those with financial troubles. They are willing to learn to counsel in financial matters rather than avoid the issue or to be quick to refer someone out to professional (and very secular) financial counseling. The response may be modest. At least, they can give one good idea and not do any harm. Harm is not sharing technical and inspirational ideas. Harm is quick referral without giving at least one idea. Harm is giving insults. Harm is presenting truth without grace.

Financial worries or worldly passions prevent church attendees from hearing messages in sermons or comments in casual opportunities. They may hear but not implement during the week. These obsessions are keeping people from the Son-shine. Therefore, the shepherd paves the way for the Spirit. Time or ignoring the issues does not heal financial illnesses. Yes, people sing praises on Sunday, forgetting their troubles and cares of the world temporarily. During the week they are haunted if we do not address financial concerns in sermons, prayers, and counseling.

Shepherds counteract the persuasions of the media and peer pressures controlling their members by giving the message of the gospel. Rarely do people spend more time reading the Bible, praying, and talking with faithful believers than watching TV, reading catalogues or passing billboards. So as a person thinks, he or she becomes. It is a sin to not trust God and not receive inspiration from messages and financial counseling to overcome strong and destructive forces. Shepherds help people listen to the voice of God among the many competing voices getting louder and louder in a society with complex and persuasive technology and marketing.

Restoring Pastor, Compassion Minister, Educator, Outreach Director, Financial Counselor, Helping Professional, Mentor, and Money Coach as Shepherd

How can people hear when they are in the pits of financial despair (Psalm 103) or caught in the thickets of bad habits? They need a shepherd who cares for them as Pastor Ann does. She cares enough to apply counseling skills. She examines each individual’s make-up, decisions, and patterns of behavior. She knows the processes and questions for counseling. She knows the complexities of the marketplace, credit world, and legal procedures enough to assess options – or at least know someone who does.

Professionals and lay leaders can be on the shepherd’s team. Most importantly, the Great Shepherd is leading the team. The team asks, What next? or What will we do? The team prays for God to send experts including therapists, social service workers, financial educators, consumer credit counselors, and financial planners. Talking with other shepherds about a case is helpful especially for the novice in financial counseling.

Most people do not care how much their counselor knows until they know if he or she cares. Ezekiel (34:2-8) talks of false shepherds and the scattering of Israel. This happened because there were no shepherds or shepherds who only took care of themselves. The shepherds were criticized for not strengthening the weak, healing the sick, binding the injured, bringing back the strays or searching for the lost. They were careless and neglectful. Sheep were scattered and became food for wild animals. No one searched for them. The Sovereign Lord said he would hold the shepherds accountable and remove them from tending the flock. The Lord would rescue his flock and he himself would search for them, looking after them. He would shepherd the flock with justice. Zechariah (11:17) mentions woe to the worthless shepherd. Matthew (9:36) speaks about compassion, the sheep are harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd.

Just as the Great Shepherd walks with the anointed ones, shepherds are called to walk with people in financial uncertainties, difficulties and disasters. They see the pain, despair, the brokenness when parishioners lose a job, have a divorce, or have a financial disorder. Shepherds provide wonderful care when walking with friends and church members when their loved ones die. Now they are called to lift the fallen out of financial despair. Shepherds are called to assist people to fly like eagles, not to grow weary with burdens of debt, financial irresponsibility, or life in retirement. Shepherds are called to turn agendas to God’s kingdom, to use wealth for the glory of God and their neighbor’s good.

Roles are inferred by John 5:7 The sick man answered, ‘Sir, I have no one to put me in the pool. Sometimes it is the shepherd’s role to move someone into the waters. Sometimes it is the shepherd’s role to stir the waters.²

The Great Shepherd Walks with Shepherds in Financial Issues

The Master Teacher would understand difficulties of counseling. His experience was with Judas who valued money more than loyalty. He dealt with greed and power when the disciples asked who is going to sit with Him in the Kingdom. He had to teach the disciples to feed people rather than send them away. The disciples complained about the woman pouring perfume on his feet and wasting money.

The shepherd’s guide is to Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people (Colossians 3:23). Paul’s words were: Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Do not forget to pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to preach about his secret plan-that Christ is for the Gentiles. That is why I am here in chains. Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should. Live wisely among those who are not Christians, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone (Colossians 4:1-6).

Hand in hand with God, shepherds can journey through the land of finances. In any session, present are the counselor, the client, and the Great Counselor. Encouragement is in the words, God does not call the qualified. He qualifies the called. (source unknown). So read on.

Equipped to Answer the Call

People are outfitted as shepherds when they know: 1) the processes of counseling, 2) personalities and their different attitudes toward money and responses to counseling, 3) financial management steps in handling crises and change, 4) the competing voices being heard, and 5) ability to quickly establish a relationship of trust and rapport.

The heart is ready when the shepherd loves and shows compassion especially when the relationship and subject matter are challenges. The heart of any counseling process is a relationship characterized by warmth, genuineness, acceptance, caring and trust.³ The quality of relating is therapeutic in psychological language and redemptive in religious language.⁴

One of the most important change agent in financial behavior is the relationship with the counselor. Also, knowledge changes behavior. Scary facts change behavior. Crisis changes behavior. It is the trusting relationship more than education that changes behavior.

The shepherd leads people close to the heart of God while they change their financial decisions. The mind generates alternatives, which include greater commitment to Christ’s way. The shepherd and individual decide one task at a time after considering possibilities for action. Energy for the action comes from new hope.

An illustration conveys counseling principles. Pastor Howard knows from experience that the counseling process should be orderly, and sequential. Failure in this results in a loose Band-Aid that seldom solves the problem. Pastor Howard listens sincerely, directs conversation with skill and is firm while kind. In Corinthians 13:1-2 (NKJ) is a reminder: Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels, but have not love, I have become a sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

Shepherds are ready to address competing voices: different desires, other family members, worldly culture, constant bombardment of the media, tiredness, lack of comprehension or emotional immaturity, lusts of the flesh, and evil powers. James 4:4b (NKJ) asked, Do you know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever wants to be a friend of the world makes an enemy with God.

In addition to guidance, the shepherd corrects and holds the individual accountable. James says in 5:19-20 (NRSV), My brothers and sisters, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and is brought back by another, you should know that whoever brings back a sinner from wandering will save the sinner’s soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.

Goals for Counseling in Financial Management

The goal is a radical change in financial behavior and attitude for financial faithfulness, seeking first God’s kingdom and obedience to the call to love with heart, soul, mind, and strength. The goals are total commitment as new creations to serve God by serving others. Therefore, the goal is not accumulation of wealth in itself, not financial freedom as coined by professional financial planners, not debt-free as in Christian Budget Counseling, and not contributing the tithe alone to soothe their conscience. The goal may be to teach people to live within their means if they are irresponsible and reality has not caught up with them. A spiritual conversion may move them to change priorities. A goal may be intentionally not living within their means to intentionally respond to a higher call of faithfulness. It may be redefining living within means. It may mean giving all or working without pay. They are trusting God to provide financial support. Faithfulness includes good stewardship of use of time, material supplies, wealth, talents, money, and care of the environment both near and far. It includes awareness of manipulation. The call is creativity with radical ways in finances, especially in times of distress, uncertainty, and loss of income.

The call is for financial faithfulness not financial success as the world describes it. For example, rather than planning for retirement in the usual way seeking independence, Sister Jane plans to serve in a home where room and board are provided. Ellen and Joe are planning to build a house for two generations utilizing Joe’s father’s pension.

Spiritual healing and wholeness