Dear Friends, 

It is so easy to getcaught up in the ways of the world, putting too much emphasis on what otherpeople think about our actions, lifestyles and work, and then adapting ourbehavior so that we fit in. While it’s important for our health and happinessto live in harmony with our families, friends and community, we don’t have toembrace all the latest trends or jump on the bandwagon of popular opinion.

Think about today’syounger generation. They are under immense peer pressure to wear the rightclothes, have the latest high tech toys and hang out with the “cool” kids.Parents want to see our children happy, have lots of friends and succeed atschool, so sometimes we “give in” and buy the clothes and high tech toys. Goddoesn’t condemn us for using our worldly resources to make our children happy.But I also believe that He wants us to use these opportunities to teach ourchildren that those things are only earthly possessions, and remind them thatlasting happiness comes from following the guidance of God’s word.

The same holds true for usin our work as Christian financial advisors. The Biblically based guidance weoffer may not always be popular because it runs contrary to the norm. Unlikemany secular advisors, we are not solely focused on counseling our clients toaccumulate and hold on to their wealth so they can drive the best car, own thebiggest house and overspend in order to “spoil” their children with too much“stuff.”  This paradigm encouragespeople to excel in the eyes of other people. But is that what’s reallyimportant? Or is it more important to excel in the eyes of our Lord, the onlyevaluator who truly can bless us into eternity?

In all of our adult rolesas parents, friends and financial advisors, we have a huge opportunity, and animmense responsibility, to set an example for others by the way we live our ownlives. When you notice that you have fallen into the trap of placing too muchemphasis on what others think of you, take a moment to reflect on why that hashappened and how it makes you feel. Most likely it makes you feel unhappy,insecure and inadequate.

God tells us we need neverfeel like that. When we follow His Word on how to live our lives, we willsucceed in the eyes of our only true evaluator, each and every time! Iencourage you to return to scripture for guidance on what is right for you,your family, your community, and your work.

How have you overcome thetendency to place too much importance on what others think, and returned toGod’s Word for security in your life? Share your story below and inspireothers.

Blessings,

Ron