For those of you new to Free Money Finance, I post on The Bible and Money every Sunday. Here's why.
The Wall Street Journal says that there are times when religion and business SHOULD mix. In particular, they say it's vital for financial planners to understand their clients' religious perspectives so the planners can incorporate the clients' beliefs into appropriate financial plans. The Journal's thoughts:
Talking about religion is often seen as taboo in business.
But not for some financial advisers. In fact, many of them argue that it's crucial to speak with clients about their religion or spirituality, as a way to gain a full understanding of their financial goals.
"You can't properly plan without addressing this issue," says Martin Shenkman, a Paramus, N.J., estate-planning attorney.
I have to agree 100%. In fact, I made similar remarks over three years ago when I posted Why I Post on The Bible and Money. Here was my first bulletpoint in that article:
[The Bible is] part of my financial life. Some people forget that Free Money Finance is my personal blog and not just a website about money. It is about money, of course, but it's my personal take on finances. I'm telling everyone what's worked for me -- and applying the principles found in the Bible (such as spending less than you earn, minimizing debt, giving, and so on) are key elements in my success.
In other words, the Bible is major part of who I am. So it would be ridiculous to leave out that part of my life when making financial plans -- just like it would be strange to leave out any other major factor in a person's life when developing a financial plan. Because a financial plan is really a LIFE plan, and all aspects of a person's life needs to be taken into account in order to manage their money to meet their specific needs, wants, desires, plans, etc.
Agree or disagree?
Agree. Of course. :)
BTW, for anyone who hasn't yet, I recommend clicking through to the WSJ article and reading/skimming it. They give some good examples of why this matters.
Posted by: Rich Schmidt | October 09, 2011 at 07:26 AM
Agree
Posted by: Matt | October 09, 2011 at 11:07 AM
Seems pretty obvious, yes. Lots of businesses, from grocery stores to web properties, cater to the religious requirements of their clientele. Why not financial planners?
I don't think this is what people have in mind when they object to "mixing religion and business".
Posted by: 08graduate | October 09, 2011 at 11:25 AM
Well said FMF.
Posted by: Keith | October 09, 2011 at 02:25 PM
Agreed.
Posted by: BD | October 09, 2011 at 04:04 PM
I agree with you. How people save, spend and give is linked to their personal values, which for many are informed by their faith.
Posted by: Rich | October 09, 2011 at 11:22 PM
Agree. I also think it's laughable when people say that a presidential candidate's faith is irrelevant. If the faith is genuine - whether in Christ as in Christianity or in mankind as in humanism - it will evidence itself in that candidate's views and life.
Posted by: JR | October 10, 2011 at 08:15 PM
I don't think its wrong to express your religious views. I do believe its wrong sometimes when someone tries to use their religion to gain trust of others. " you can trust me to take good care of your money, I'm a christian" How many folks have been ripped off by the "good christian". The problem with mixing religion and business is that most con men are well aware that they can gain trust by playing on your religious views. Thats what you have to watch for.
Posted by: billyjobob | October 11, 2011 at 11:53 AM
I would have to agree. How can you separate the person from their beliefs?
Posted by: LaTisha | October 17, 2011 at 07:56 AM