Ed Reid, stewardship director for the North American Division, presented his personal money management seminar called “It’s Your Money” at the Red Bluff Church June 4 and 5. Every participating family received a free copy of his newly reprinted book and workbook.
Reid illustrated his lessons with PowerPoint slides and told many stories of his personal experience as a financial counselor, injecting humor into what some might consider a dry subject. Reid reminded attendees that all of “our” money is really God’s money. God asks us to return to Him 10 percent, and be faithful stewards of the remaining 90 percent.
Following guidance from the Bible and Ellen White, the remaining 90 percent should be used for three purposes: to meet our own needs, to meet the needs of others, and to advance God’s kingdom on earth. The more prudent we are in managing our finances, the more we will have left after meeting our own needs to use to benefit others, both materially and spiritually.
Based on the many biblical passages regarding money, Reid gave practical advice on handling loans and managing debt. “Don’t charge interest to needy fellow believers, nor excessive interest to unbelievers,” said Reid. “It is true that you can’t take it with you, but by meeting the needs of others as well as supporting God’s work, you can send it on ahead of you. This is how we may lay up treasure in heaven.”
The many attendees included Red Bluff members, visitors from nearby Adventist churches and from the community. “One person told me that it was the first time he had ever been in a Seventh-day Adventist church,” said Reid.
The usual warm welcome at the Red Bluff church was made a little warmer by the lack of air conditioning during the seminar. The new unit had not yet been delivered, so attendees were fortunate that the weather was relatively cool for the meetings.
The seminar presented at the Red Bluff church was a condensation of a more complete presentation and is available on five cassettes from the church. If you are interested in listening to the complete presentation, contact the Red Bluff church at 530-527-3733.
