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Back to Testimonials We found the workshop extremely helpful "Tom, my wife and I attended one of your workshops over 10 years ago when we were struggling with a crippling load of debt. We found the workshop extremely helpful and through your guidance and the principles you taught, and turning to God in complete trust of our situation, not only did. God eliminates our debt through incredible work opportunities for myself, but He has also provided us with the means to give back and support various ministries. This didn't happen overnight but over several years as God continued to teach us to rely on Him. From the start we were determined to give back even a very small tithe to Him, and our ability to tithe has grown as He continues to provide for us. When the last of our debt was gone, just prior to the start of the pandemic, we praised God that He answered our prayers. He is faithful! We felt led to make a donation to your ministry to thank you and encourage you because it was such a blessing to us, and we would like to see others benefit from your work. Thank you and thanks to everyone serving in your ministry. [Matthew 6:31-33].” TA Newmarket Ontario Previous Next

Testimonials We found the workshop extremely helpful "Tom, my wife and I attended one of your workshops over 10 years ago when we were struggling with a crippling load of debt. We found the workshop extremely helpful and through your guidance and the principles you taught, and turning to God in complete trust of our situation, not only did. Read More TA Newmarket Ontario Tom Copland’s book, Financial Moments If you finally want to straighten out your finances the right way based on Biblical principles, get this book. You’ll wonder how you ever dealt with your finances without it." Read More T.O Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Thank you so much. I appreciate all you knowledge that you share. I learn so much from your teachings. How you know the scriptures and how you apply them to our finances and to our daily living. Thank you so much. I appreciate all you knowledge that you share. Susan C Facebook follower Sincerest thanks and may the Lord continue to bless you, your family and Copland financial ministries. I couldn't express enough how grateful I am to have Christine, and now Ton, helping us. Christine is incredibly skilled, creative and the most amazing blessing in so many ways! Read More SR & PN Stouffville Ontario Canada The budgeting material (in particular) has been very helpful I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to take this course. Thank you, Tom, for your ministry." Read More P.K. Oro-Medonte, Ontario, Canada Your radio programs have been a daily source of inspiration I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to reach out and express my gratitude for the impact your work has had on my life over the past two years. Your radio programs have been a daily source of inspiration and have guided me towards discovering my purpose. ME Waterloo, Ontario Thank You Tom for all you do. Thank You Tom for all you do. I hope you know you are breaking chains and setting people free because that is exactly what you are faithfully doing. Read More W.P. Shawville Quebec, Canada God richly bless you and your family Brother Copland For someone who had had so much Kingdom impact and so much success you radiate the presence of God in your approachability... humility and it is a powerful gift. God richly bless you and your family Brother Copland. K. J. P. Kitchener, Canada The workshop has been very beneficial The workshop has been very beneficial in giving me practical insights in managing my debts based on Biblical principles. BB Edmonton, Alberta I agree 100% with the principles and messages from Copland Ministries "I agree 100% with the principles and messages from Copland Ministries. Through the Financial Management process, you can fine tune your finances so that you are on the way to good financial health." T. S. Cebu, Philippines I’d be very grateful to receive a copy of your new book on Biblical principles to deal with inflation I’d be very grateful to receive a copy of your new book on Biblical principles to deal with inflation. Thank you so much. I’ve been praying for at least 8 months now, asking God to help my son pay down a large income tax debt. I can’t tell you how much your courses are helping me. I’m learning so much. It almost seems overwhelming so I need to keep going over it. Thanks so much. May God richly bless you and your ministry. J. G. 281 Fir Lane Kemptville, Ont K0G 1J0 My financial situation is a burden to me I am doing your 4 part financial online course. I am so blessed to be apart of this course. My financial situation is a burden to me and I am so encouraged by these sessions. I saw you on TV about a year ago and have blessed since. Praying the Lord will continue to bless you abundantly as you help us with our financial situation so that we can have peace and joy as Children of God. D.S. 18 Cloverlawn Street, Brampton Ontario, Canada Thank You Tom and God Bless You. I keep you in my Prayers Tom you are without a doubt one of the most humble people I have ever had the privilege to listen to. That has to be the reason why the Holy Spirit draws so many people to your teachings, He is your partner. Have a great evening. God Bless. D.W.P. Shawville Québec, Canada God saved me $1000.00 by knowing the state of my flocks! Thank you for your financial seminar I took for Singles last year. Your seminars are excellent biblical teaching that works and I am still using today. Thank you Tom and thank you God! P. H. Vancouver, Canada Your ministry is a blessing to me Your ministry is a blessing to me & my family. I am very appreciative of your 'all wise' emails. DM, Chester Basin, Nova Scotia Canada. DM Chester Basin, Nova Scotia Canada. I have been blessed to be a part of this Biblical teaching! This teaching is EXACTLY what I need and want, and I have been learning and applying. I also let others know about it. I purchased some of the books, and was blessed to receive a free one too, and I give these books to my friends and family members. Read More BG Saskatchewan, Canada Thank you Copland Financial Ministries I have learned how to manage my finance according Biblical Principles . It has been an eye open experience for me. Read More R.G. ​ Financial Management God's Way for Women Thank you personally for the teaching which was very transformative. IA Toronto, Canada Thanks be to God I am debt-free Thanks be to God I am debt-free and I'm able to be used to help others in this world. Many many thanks for your ministry. LP Toronto, Canada Financial Moments, Biblical Principles That Will Transform How You Manage Money I’m reading through that book by Tom Copland. Wow is it good and wow did I break so many principles of God! It’s very confusing as I thought this was the will of the Lord how it came about but he says at the beginning that Tom said God uses financial issues as trials as well. Read More Adam ​ GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST!!!!!!! God had me take your Zoom class right on time. This was a big debt and because of what I learned in your classes concerning the Word of God I decided not to take any offers to pay less of my debt but instead I desired to pay it all. I could not have actually done so without God helping me each step each day each week each month. Read More NF Brampton ON, Canada I wish I had learned these principles sooner My knowledge and understanding of God's financial principles has profoundly changed. The bible is a wealth of information on how we should wisely think and then manage our finances. I have been so culturally accustomed to secular thinking about finances that I was not even aware of the detrimental impact that it had on my relationship with God. Read More L.G. Toronto, ON, Canada It pushed me to pay off my mortgage I sincerely thank you (Copland Financial Ministries) for hosting these wonderful sessions on Financial Management God's Way. It really pushed me to pay off my mortgage sooner than later, and I'm forever grateful! Thank you for taking the time to chat with me after our session. I value your insights, along with the tips you gave me. Read More S.P. Toronto, ON, Canada God answers prayer with respect to a wayward daughter Growing up, my parents and grandparents never overspent on anything and neither did I (but we are not holy and righteous). However, while I thought I was “pretty good in terms of everything” especially money management, my daughter’s credit card debts surfaced in 2013 after she was baptized and moved away from home to university. For the first time, she had a lot of money to manage, from student loans, ESF education saving fund, part time jobs to monetary gifts from relatives. Read More S.L. New Tecumseth, ON, Canada Very high quality and essential Your program is very high quality and essential for today’s Canadian families. We are pleased to have posted it on our website. God bless. Anonymous Tom's faithfulness to love God and love people Amazing! Tom’s knowledge of the bible is extraordinary and God’s call on his life is unmistakable, allowing so many people the opportunity to learn and understand how to manage finances God’s way. I feel truly blessed to have been able to participate and learn from Tom’s wisdom. His generosity in offering this program without charging a fee is testament to his commitment to God and man. Tom lives his faith and demonstrates his faithfulness to love God and love people. Thank you Tom!! W.B. Barrie, ON, Canada Zoom Webinar Testimony We want to say thank you! We have been attending your zoom study on financial management God's way. We have both learned so much. Personally, I never dreamed the Bible had so much to say on finances. We are currently working on a budget for ourselves and are actively paying down our debt. Thank you so much for teaching this awesome study. L.A. Oxbow, SK, Canada A life-changing testimony There has been a spiritual shift in my finances since taking your class. I didn’t notice much of a difference initially, but a couple of months later I recognized that I was thinking differently about money. I have continued to track my expenses diligently and formulate a budget every 2 weeks. Read More Judy Toronto, ON, Canada God's Word on finances more effectively People are still commenting about the significant blessing your seminar series “Handling Money God’s Way” was. We had over 200 individuals sign up for this – and about one-third of those were from outside our church – praise God!! In one session, you shared how to have a personal relationship with Christ and we offered new testaments to anyone who wanted one, and over 30 people took one. Read More Anonymous God used you to save a life It is amazing to hear from you and would be thrilled to speak with you. You were the first human voice I heard as God’s grace filled my life. Please know that at least once God uses your recorded voice to save a human life and to add my name to the Book of Life. Thank you. C.L. Halifax, NS, Canada The expressions of my gratitude are many Where do I begin? The Lord our God, my Heavenly Father, brought me to Copland Financial Ministries. I have been both convicted and encouraged. Since taking Financial Management God’s Way for Singles, I have made two or three major financial decisions that I believe please God. Knowing and understanding and then implementing the Word of God in my finances are a great blessing bringing peace and joy. Read More N.F. Brampton, ON, Canada It has helped convict my heart Thank-you for leading our finance course! It has helped convict my heart to make some practical changes. The difference between this course and the other course Jamie and I did 8-9 years ago is the infusion of God's word into the curriculum. It's neat having my Bible beside me while I'm working through the case studies. So, thank you both (and Tom Copland) for providing such a strong Biblical foundation to what we are learning. I'm finding not only is my mind (and pocket-book) being challenged, but my heart is as well. I feel God is challenging my thinking on faith and trust in Him as well. T.N. Calgary, AB A man was in the depths of despair A man was in the depths of despair and psyched himself to drive his car into the water to commit suicide. He said the only station that would come in was CJLU 93.9. He specifically heard Tom Copland and decided against killing himself. He gave his life to Christ and has been a Christian now for a year and a half. He talked about the Bibles he has been giving out to people and how he now attends a local church. He called the station this week to share his testimony. Thank you for airing Financial Moments on Harvesters FM. God bless you. J.L. (Radio Host) Eastern Canada Zoom webinar testimony I took your Financial Management God's way course last fall. And with God's direction and your advice, I have paid off my mortgage!!! B.C. Woodstock, ON, Canada I've benefited greatly from your teaching I've benefited greatly from your teaching as it has helped me change my thought process on handling my finances, planning for the future, and estate planning. I record your messages on my PVR so I can watch them from time to time. So again thank you again. L.C. Montréal, QC, Canada You have changed my life I just want to let you know that I was listening to your message years ago when we were working together. You have changed my life. I sold my larger house and minimized my lifestyle and set new financial goals because of the time you spent talking with me and the CD’s you gave me. I wanted you to know that I was listening. I’ve made saving a priority. Thank goodness! I know it won’t be an easy time here, but boy I’m glad I’ve been saving. B.P. South Carolina, USA Faith FM Listener I listen to you almost every day on Faith FM. I have learned so much and you have been God sent to me. I was praying to God for help in understanding His law with regards to finance and God blessed me with the best teacher/mentor I could have asked for. Thank you Tom and God bless you. Ellyna Thank you for your advice Thanks so much for your advice and all your resources. Your support, advice, validation and sincere heart have been such an encouragement and blessing to us. We left our time with you feeling great peace and clarity, even though all our financial problems are not instantly solved. God used you to speak into our lives and we are so thankful for that. R.G. Toronto, ON, Canada Thank you for your ministry I Attended the Zoom Webinar - Managing Money During Covid-19. It was excellent! I would be interested in attending more virtual workshops when they are available. Thank you for this ministry! L.S. ON, Canada My spirit feels with your advice I am very impressed with your view on finances as it appears to me to be the most godly perspective all based on scripture. I can also sense your sincere love and devotion to the Lord and your desire to bring Him glory. You are seeking Him first and His kingdom and His righteousness by seeking the Holy Spirit’s individual direction through spending time in the Word and His presence. My spirit feels with your advice. Anonymous Thank you Tom for your faithfulness Thank you Tom for your faithfulness in teaching through God's word, and many hours on your own time, for our benefit and God's call. It has been great and very much appreciated by me and I am sending a donation for your ministry, by mail today. I will continue to pray for your ministry, too. Thank you again for all you do. L.M. Stouffville, ON, Canada Financial Ministry is growing Tom, I am glad to hear that the Financial Ministry is growing and changing people's lives all over the world! Taking your course actually broke a stronghold in mine, I really believe that. I also developed a new money mindset. I am still learning to walk in God's Ways of managing finances, but I have come a long way! I am very interested in taking part in a financial coaching webinar in the future and learning how to help someone else. J.C. Waterloo, ON, Canada I can't wait to tell people I know about you! I would just like to say that what you are doing is amazing! I know it is helping many people! I first saw you in your commercial. I am so happy to see a Christian giving Godly based wisdom on finances. I am also glad that I have your messages as a 23-year-old now, that way the rest of my life could be set on the right track. Thank you for what you do, I hope that it never ceases. Your love for the Lord is admirable as well, and you are a fantastic role model. I can’t wait to tell people I know about you! cheers! Anonymous Praise God for the work Thank you so much for your prompt response; much appreciated. I will be checking out the website. Praise God for the work you guys are doing for The Body of Christ. Anonymous Daily living for God Recently a group of pastors were discussing that their churches were falling behind in their giving and having trouble meeting budgets. I was reluctant to share, less it appears to be bragging, that our church was in fact ahead in this year’s budget and we enjoyed a sizeable surplus. Upon reflection, I concluded that one of the reasons for the excellent response was because we have been scheduling some classes and seminars on personal finances and debt reduction/elimination. Read More Anonymous Video Testimonials Cam's Testimony . Randy Ziegenhagel . Wolf German . Colin accepts Christ after almost ending his life It is God through his word (Hebrews 4:12) and his spirit (John 10:27) that draws people into a relationship with Christ. Be sure to listen to this video as Colin Long provides his testimony of how he had planned to commit suicide, but God did a miraculous thing, working through one of Tom’s financial moments, Colin came to know Christ as Saviour and Lord. We praise God! InTouch 2013 . InTouch 2011 . Cam's Testimony . Bayfair Testimonies . Morningstar Mike .

Listen To Tom's Interview/Show On Life 100.3-Dealing with Inflation - Part 3 Details What We Do Tom Copland teaches how to manage your finances based on Biblical principles. God's Word, the Bible, has incredible wisdom in the area of finances. There are 2,350 references in the Bible to money and material things. ​ God provides us with wisdom in all areas of finances including debt, budgeting, investing, counsel, stewardship, priorities, giving, cosigning, obtaining God's peace, and providing a distinction between worldly attitudes as opposed to godly attitudes with respect to money. ​ If you have financial questions, let us know and Tom or one of our trained financial coaches will advise you. Contact Us Upcoming Events Listen To Tom's Interview/Show On Life 100.3-Dealing with Inflation and High Interest Rates from a Biblical Perspective Fri, Sep 22 Life 100.3 Sep 22, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Life 100.3, 115 Bell Farm Rd Suite 111, Barrie, ON L4M 5G1 Sep 22, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Life 100.3, 115 Bell Farm Rd Suite 111, Barrie, ON L4M 5G1 REGISTRATION NOT REQUIRED! We encourage you to email us your questions in advance (prior to Sept. 15) at info@biblefinance.org on the topic of "Dealing with Inflation and High Interest Rates from a Biblical Perspective- Part 3". This will be aired on September 22 at starting at 11 AM and 6 PM Details Financial Management God's Way & Dealing with High Interest Rates – Christine Kewallal Sat, Sep 23 Zoom Sep 23, 10:00 a.m. EDT – Dec 09, 12:00 p.m. EST Zoom Sep 23, 10:00 a.m. EDT – Dec 09, 12:00 p.m. EST Zoom We have a workshop series that can help you deal with your financial problems from a biblical perspective. Commencing shortly, my experienced leaders will lead several small groups based upon my book-“Financial Management Gods Way. “ +1 more More Details Dealing With High Interest Rates And Inflation From A Biblical Perspective Sat, Sep 30 Parkway Bible Church Sep 30, 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Parkway Bible Church, 77 Ivordale Crescent, Scarborough, ON M1R 2W7, Canada Sep 30, 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Parkway Bible Church, 77 Ivordale Crescent, Scarborough, ON M1R 2W7, Canada The workshop will be live on September 30. However if you live too far away you can always listen in remotely. Just register and indicate your preference-in person or online. +57 more More Details Tony and Eli-Financial Management God’s Way Workshop & Dealing with Inflation and Higher Interest Rates Tue, Nov 28 Zoom Nov 28, 2023, 7:00 p.m. EST – Feb 13, 2024, 9:00 p.m. EST Zoom Nov 28, 2023, 7:00 p.m. EST – Feb 13, 2024, 9:00 p.m. EST Zoom Currently inflation and higher interest rates is a major problem in our country and around the world. More Details Events Featured Tom's New Book Management of Money Impacts Relationship with God, Spouse and Eternity Tom's Daily Devotional Book Financial M oments: Biblical Principles that Will Transform How You Manage Money Featured New Resources May 3, 2023- Dealing with Inflation and Interest Rate- Zoom Watch Series Managing Money During Difficult Times Including a Pandemic Watch Series God's Financial Wisdom for Young People Watch Series Discerning God's Will in Managing Money Webinar Series (2021) Watch Series Testimonials We thank you for your ministry "My husband and I have greatly benefited from the Debt Reduction CDs and DVDs for Businesses and Individuals. We thank you for your ministry and the impact it has had on our lives, our family, and the people around us. We would like to make monthly donations to Copland Financial Ministries." Anonymous See More Testimonials About the Author and Founder Tom Copland is a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ who has been called to teach God’s Word on finances since 1982. ​ Tom is the founder and president of Copland Financial Ministries and the author of his book Financial Management God’s Way including many other CDs and DVDs. ​ Tom is also a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) who operates his own public accounting practice in Toronto, Canada (www.copland-ca.com ). About Author

Back to Testimonials Tom Copland’s book, Financial Moments "I was fortunate to find Tom Copland’s book, Financial Moments. He clearly shows you how to manage your finances based on Biblical principles. He carefully explains how making your relationship with God your highest priority will bring you the success and peace of mind that you are seeking in dealing with your finances (and every other part of your life for that matter!). He gives specific information and advice based on the God’s Word, the Scriptures, on getting out of debt, budgeting, financial stewardship, running a business, and staying away from worldly views on money that will only get you into trouble. If you finally want to straighten out your finances the right way based on Biblical principles, get this book. You’ll wonder how you ever dealt with your finances without it." Best regards, T.O. Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. T.O Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Previous Next

Back to Freedom from Financial Anxiety Why Does God Allow Financial Problems? By: Tom Copland June 15, 2020 It is clear from Scripture that God is indeed in control. If God is in control, then why does he allow Christians to have significant financial problems? Over the past 23 years, I’ve had the privilege of counselling hundreds of Christian couples and individuals. One common reason for financial problems is that the people have unknowingly violated one or more of God’s financial principles. I believe there is no substitute for understanding the fundamentals of what God has taught in his Word regarding finances. I recommend the materials and Bible studies provided by Crown Financial Ministries as an excellent resource for understanding what God has to say about finances. On the other hand, some Christians have financial problems through no fault of their own. They have followed God’s principles, but they still have financial problems. Why? I believe that the most common reason would be found in John 15, where Jesus said, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” (John 15:1, 2, emphasis added) In the same way that a gardener prunes a vine, God prunes his children by way of trials (including financial trials) so that we will depend on God more and remain connected to the Lord on an ongoing basis, for the purpose of bearing more spiritual fruit. Jesus said, “ I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Regardless of how difficult or insurmountable, our financial problems are, we know that God can solve them—either very quickly or slowly. He is in control. He is the all-powerful, everywhere-present, and all-knowing God. We also know that God loves us unconditionally (Rom. 8:38, 39). God has a purpose for any trial in the believer’s life, and God will bring some good out of every hardship. Romans 8: 28, 29 states, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. In short, because God is in control, and because he loves us unconditionally, we know with confidence that we can trust him to allow only those financial trials that are within his will. We can also trust him to provide the wisdom, direction, and strength that we need to endure any financial trial that God allows. Previous Article Next Article More Topics Co-Signing/Surety Read More Investing Read More Priorities Read More

Back to Priorities Effective Ministry By: Tom Copland June 13, 2020 An individual’s ministry effectiveness will generally be significantly influenced by the biblical or non-biblical use of money. Jesus indicated that, if you are not trustworthy with money, then God will not entrust you with something of greater importance, which Christ called the “true riches. “If you have not been trustworthy in the handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” (Luke 16:11). I believe that God’s “true riches” include a close relationship with God, God’s peace, and God’s joy. In addition, I believe that God’s “true riches” include an effective ministry that has been blessed by God. It is interesting to note that one of the requirements for an elder is that the person must not be a “lover of money” and must be able to manage one’s own family well—which, by the way, would include managing family finances in a godly fashion (1 Timothy 3:3–5). From a practical perspective, 1 Timothy 3:5 raises this question: “If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?” Further, some biblical scholars interpret the “true riches” that Jesus Christ is referring to in Luke 16:11 to include spiritual responsibilities, which obviously affects one’s ministry. It is important to note that the verse preceding Luke 16:11 indicates that an individual must demonstrate faithfulness in a small amount before God will entrust him or her with a larger amount. Jesus said, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” In short, it is one’s character that determines the extent of one’s faithfulness to God, not the amount of money a person has been entrusted with. In summary, if a Christian is not faithful to God in regard to something of less importance, such as money and material things, then why would God entrust one with something of greater importance, which would include an effective ministry that has been blessed by God? I believe there is no substitute for studying and meditating on God’s Word with regard to finances. This, in conjunction with prayer, will enable you to determine God’s will for your life in regard to the money he has entrusted you with. As you implement God’s financial principles, God will provide you with his peace and joy in regard to finances as well as an effective ministry. Previous Article Next Article More Topics Investing Counsel & Wisdom Stewardship Principle Read More Read More Read More

Back to Freedom from Financial Anxiety Are You Overwhelmed by Financial Problems? By: Tom Copland January 4, 2021 Do you feel burdened and worried about your finances? Do you feel overwhelmed by financial problems? Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matt, 11: 28–30). Jesus gently encourages us to come to him humbly, first asking for his help and then “yoking” with him—that is, depending on God to carry the heavy part of the load. God has promised that he will sustain us, no matter how difficult the circumstances. "Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all you who remain of the house of Israel, you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." (Isa. 46:3, 4) In order to relieve some of the financial pressures, as a practical matter, I recommend you consider some of the following suggestions: 1. Track your expenditures for two or three months to determine where your money is going. Most people don’t know where their money is being spent. 2. Develop a budget—my firm has developed an Excel-based budgeting system that is available at no charge. Call us if you would like a copy (905-477-1300). 3. In the process of developing and following a budget, ensure that you are spending less than you are making in order to provide a monthly surplus. 4. Use that surplus to pay down debt with the highest interest cost first, which is generally credit cards. 5. Next, pay down your other debts, and save some money for emergencies. (See Proverbs 21:20.) Be sure to spend quality time with God daily, asking him for specific direction about your finances. God has promised that if we ask him for wisdom, he will give it to us (James 1:5) and if we ask him for his specific direction, then he will provide direction to us (Prov. 3:5, 6). Previous Article Next Article More Topics Co-Signing/Surety Read More Investing Read More Priorities Read More

Back to Priorities Treasures in Heaven By: Tom Copland June 13, 2020 Jesus said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store PRIORITIES-TREASURES IN HEAVEN I believe that “treasures on earth” include money and material things. These are the things that we tend to prize during our lifetime but that will have no importance when we get to heaven. The apostle Paul made it clear: “For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” (1 Timothy 6:7). On the other hand, “treasures in heaven” include things that will be important to us when we get to heaven. I believe that “treasures in heaven” include salvation (as one’s salvation will last for eternity) and the rewards in heaven that God promises to his faithful stewards. The concept of rewards in heaven is difficult to grasp in concrete terms because we don’t really know what heaven will be like, and scripture does not explicitly describe heavenly rewards. However, it is important to realize that what we do here on earth does have an effect on what awaits us in heaven. 1 Timothy 4:7 tells us that “godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” Godliness includes the way we handle our finances. We read about treasures in heaven again in 1 Timothy 6:18, 19: “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way, they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” In the Parable of the Talents, the concept of rewards is specifically linked to faithful financial stewardship. To servants who have been faithful stewards, God has promised that he will put them “in charge of many things” and that they will enjoy happiness with their master. Jesus said, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:21). As human beings, it is easy to get focused on money and material things that we can enjoy while we are here on earth. However, because money and material things are temporary, it is the wise Christian who focuses on “treasures in heaven.” Colossians 3:1, 2 states, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” May I encourage you to take a few minutes right now and pray, asking God to reveal to you how you need to adjust your focus from treasures on earth to treasures in heaven. Previous Article Next Article More Topics Investing Counsel & Wisdom Stewardship Principle Read More Read More Read More

Stewardship Principle Back to Articles God Owns Everything 1. God owns all the money. “‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the LORD Almighty” (Haggai 2:8). Read More God Requires Faithful Stewards In Matthew 25:14–30, Jesus Christ gives us the Parable of the Talents. In this parable, the master represents God, and the servants represent you and me—that is, the people. The master entrusted different amounts of material wealth to three servants. Read More God Requires Faithfulness All of us are responsible to God, regardless of the amount of material wealth that he has entrusted to us. 1 Corinthians 4:2 states, “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful”. Romans 14:12 states, “So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” Read More

Back to Financial Deceptions Bankruptcy Will Solve My Financial Problems By: Tom Copland June 15, 2020 When people get into financial difficulty, many believe that declaring bankruptcy will solve their financial problems. Unfortunately, bankruptcy just treats the symptom. Statistics show that approximately 80 percent of people who go bankrupt, do so again within 10 years. This is generally because the real problem is the violation of God’s financial principles, which often continues even if current debts are eliminated by bankruptcy. The Bible is clear that it is not God’s will for anyone to go bankrupt. “The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously” (Psalm 37:21). In other words, it is a sin to declare bankruptcy. On the other hand, a righteous person pays what is owed (which is implied) and goes “the extra mile” by giving generously even where there is no financial obligation. In addition, it is not a good testimony when a Christian declares bankruptcy. Hence, I believe that it is not God’s will for a Christian to go bankrupt. If you are in financial difficulty, I recommend that you learn and implement God’s financial principles in conjunction with a budget. If you do this, God has promised that he will meet your needs (Matthew 6:31–33), but not necessarily your wants and desires. Since 1982, I have had the privilege of counselling more than 300 Christians who have been in financial difficulty. In those situations where the Christian learned and implemented God’s financial principles, God blessed in unusual ways, and no one declared bankruptcy. If you have declared bankruptcy already, then may I encourage you in several ways. 1. God loves you, and God will forgive the act of bankruptcy if you confess that sin to the Lord: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). 2. In dependence upon the Holy Spirit and God’s wisdom from his Word, ask God to reveal to you the real cause(s) of your bankruptcy. Even Christians can unknowingly violate God’s financial principles. Or it may be an ungodly attitude or mindset about money that you need to change. It is critical that you study and meditate on God’s Word with respect to finances so that you have “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16) in managing the money that God has entrusted you with. Excellent materials can be obtained from Crown Financial Ministries (www.crown.org ). 3. Develop and implement a budget to ensure that you are spending less than you are earning on a monthly basis so that you have a surplus for non-monthly and unexpected expenditures. A budget is simply a tool that can be used in a practical way to do short-term and long-term financial planning. In summary, the deception of this world is that bankruptcy will solve one’s financial problems. Bankruptcy only treats the symptom. Generally, the true cause of the problem is the violation of one or more biblical principles. I recommend that, in dependence on God, you learn and apply God’s financial principles in conjunction with implementing a budget. Previous Article Next Article More Topics The Joseph Principle Read More Co-Signing/Surety Read More Freedom from Financial Anxiety Read More

Diversification (2 of 2) Back to Investing By: Tom Copland October 19, 2021 As explained in my previous Financial Moment, God’s Word recommends the diversification of one’s portfolio into different types of investments that will likely react differently to any particular market condition. By the way, if you have absolutely no peace in investing in equities because of the related risks, then perhaps God is directing you to invest solely in very safe categories, such as the government of Canada bonds, GICs, etc. The return on “a very safe portfolio” will be very modest, and therefore you will likely have to save considerably more money to meet future needs, compared to an investor who assumes a reasonable amount of risk within biblical guidelines. There is no “perfect portfolio allocation” for all Christians. God’s Word provides general principles—not specific details. That’s why there is absolutely no substitute for spending quality time with the Lord in prayer, asking God for His wisdom (James 1:5) and His specific direction with respect to investing the money that God has entrusted to you. God has promised to direct us [Psalms 32:8, John 10:3, 4, 27]. Subject to God’s specific direction, and under normal market and economic conditions, the following asset allocation could be appropriate in order to achieve diversification. Cash, T-bills, MMFs, 10% GICs, bonds-short, medium, long–incl some real return bonds 40% Canadian equities (several sectors incl Cdn banks & resource stocks.) 20% U.S. equities (several sectors) 10% Real estate, REITs and related equities 5% International equities incl Emerging Markets & Europe 15% Total 100% Note the above is not intended to be a specific recommendation for anyone – just an example of a diversified portfolio. Be sure to obtain investment advice from a trusted advisor. Of interest, as of the date of updating this financial moment [March 27, 2010], my own personal portfolio allocation is predominately in cash. God has specifically directed me to take a very conservative position as I sense from the Lord that the economic “recovery” in the USA and Canada will be weak and short-lived. Again, the biblical principle is that we should generally diversify our portfolios in a manner that is consistent with Ecclesiastes 11:1, 2. However, since only God knows the future (Isaiah 46: 9, 10), then the only possible way to “time the market” with any consistency is in total dependence upon God for his specific direction (see John 15:5, John 10:3, 4, 27, Psalm 32:8). Over the years, I have seen a few situations where God has revealed the direction of markets to his children, but this is rare. God may not reveal the direction of the markets to you, but I do believe, based upon God’s Word [e.g.Psalms 32:8, James 1:5, John 10:3, 4, 27 etc.], that God will direct you as to how he wants you to invest the money that he has entrusted to you. In summary, God’s Word generally recommends diversification of one’s portfolio into different types of investments that will likely react differently to any particular market condition. Since no human knows the future (James 4:13–15), in order to obey God with respect to investing, it is necessary to pray and listen [John 10:3, 4, 27] for God’s specific Will with respect to investing the money that God has entrusted to you. Previous Article Next Article More Topics Freedom from Financial Anxiety Read More Priorities Read More Counsel & Wisdom Read More

Use Minimal Debt - Or Better, No Debt Back to Investing By: Tom Copland October 19, 2021 Over the past 28 years, I have met many investment advisers who have instructed their clients to use debt in order to increase their investment returns. When the market goes up, additional returns can be obtained through the use of debt. However, when the market goes down, the results can be disastrous. I remember one woman who borrowed against her home and invested in mutual funds only to discover four years later that the funds had decreased in value by 50 percent. Being upset with what occurred, she immediately sold her investments and paid off as much of the loan as she could. Several years later, she is still servicing the remaining debt. The deception from the world is that “smart people use other people’s money.” This is contrary to God’s Word. Every reference in scripture to borrowing is negative, and nowhere in the Bible does God ever direct anyone to borrow money in order for God to bless. Our all-powerful God is able to meet every need without the assistance of the bank. Philippians 4:19 states, “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” It is not a sin to borrow money, but it is a sin to borrow and not repay. Psalms 37:21 states, “The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.” The implication is that the righteous person not only repays all debts but goes “the second mile” and gives generously. Experience has shown that people who use a lot of debt when investing will generally encounter one of the following problems: 1. When the markets are down, borrowers are forced by the lender to sell at the wrong time. In Proverbs 22:7b, God warns that “the borrower is a servant to the lender.” 2. Psychologically and emotionally, it is much more difficult to survive a “bear market,” because debt increases the volatility of your portfolio. For example, if you borrow 50 percent of what you invest, and if the market decreases 20 percent in value, then the loss of your personal capital is 40 percent. 3. If the investment decreases significantly in value, you can lose more than your original capital and end up with a deficit that may take years to repay. In Deuteronomy 28, God promised the people of Israel that, if they fully obeyed him, he would bless them so much that they be would lenders and not borrowers. In other words, God can bless your investments without the use of debt. I have seen more than 100 individual cases in which God has done this. Before you borrow to invest, be sure to ask God to reveal your motives. Frequently, people use debt in order to “get rich quick” because of covetousness or greed—both of which are contrary to God’s Word. On the other hand, saving and investing carefully over a long period of time, with the objective of meeting future needs, is a very biblical attitude. Proverbs 13:11 states, “Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow” (emphasis added). Saving and investing to provide for future needs is biblical. However, God strongly discourages the use of debt. I recommend that you save and invest whatever funds God has provided, and trust God to meet your needs, which he has promised as you put him first. (See Matthew 6:31–33.) Previous Article Next Article More Topics Freedom from Financial Anxiety Read More Priorities Read More Counsel & Wisdom Read More