Finding True Wealth: Letting Christ Lead Your Financial Journey
Finding True Wealth: Letting Christ Lead Your Financial Journey
**A Sacred Day of Reflection**
Today marks a sacred time—a day where the divine meets the earthly, and the very concept of wealth is redefined. The message I share with you on this Christmas Day goes beyond the celebrations and chaos. It's about refocusing on true wealth, which is found not in material possessions but in the spiritual riches offered by Christ.
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**The True Definition of Wealth**
As we celebrate Christmas, it's imperative to remember how this day resets the definition of wealth. Jesus, born in poverty, offers us spiritual richness. He came not with currency but with profound meaning, offering salvation instead of status. True wealth isn't the balance in your bank account; it's found in Christ. Today, my hope is to guide your heart back to this center.
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**Welcome to Financially Confident Christian**
I’m Ralph, and it’s my honor to spend this meaningful day with you. Through Financially Confident Christian, we merge discussions of faith, finances, and purpose. On this day of worship and rest, I want to address a common struggle: the uneasy feeling that our hearts may have drifted toward the wrong treasure.
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**A Listener’s Honest Question**
Recently, a listener posed a thoughtful question: “How do I keep Christ at the center of my finances when life's pressure is so loud?” It's a brave question reflecting the struggle many believers face, especially today. Christmas clears the noise and reminds us that true wealth lies not in investments or income, but in Christ.
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**A Heart vs. Culture**
Culture often measures net worth, but scripture measures heart worth. Matthew 6:21 emphasizes, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The pivotal question isn’t about how much wealth you possess, but who possesses your heart. Let me share from my own journey—not as a lecture, but an invitation to learn.
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**Four Simple Shifts to Realignment**
I had a transformative moment, realizing my chase for success overshadowed my quest for the Savior. I made four pivotal shifts:
- **Faithfulness over Fame:** I prioritized faithfulness, putting tithing and scripture above status and spending.
- **Choosing Eternal over Trendy:** In decisions, I filtered for purpose, kingdom focus, and alignment with Christ.
- **Contentment and Generosity:** Contentment killed comparison, and generosity loosened greed’s grip.
- **Setting New Year Priorities with Christ:** Prayer, not pressure, shaped my financial decisions.
These shifts led to peace, joy, and a sense of purpose returning to my life.
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**Anchoring in Scripture and Action**
Matthew 6:33 reminds us, “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” On this Christmas Day, my prayer for you is that Christ anchors your heart, freeing you from worldly pressures.
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**Your Action Item: Center Christ in Finances**
Here's your action item: Determine one way to keep Christ at the center of your finances next year. It could be through daily scripture prayers, starting a giving habit, or making Sundays a financial devotional day. Choose just one way, but let Christ guide it.
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**Join Our Community**
If you seek a supportive community where faith and finances intertwine with Christ at the center, I invite you to join Financially Confident Christian. Visit financiallyconfidentchristian.com/join to be part of a family that offers love, encouragement, and guidance.
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**Closing Thoughts**
On this sacred Christmas Day, remember: Christ defines your wealth, not culture. Centering your heart in Him will naturally lead your finances to follow. Seek His kingdom first, trust Him with the rest, and embrace the journey as a financially confident Christian. Merry Christmas, and may God bless you and your family!
Ralph V. Estep, Jr.
Christian Financial Consulting
Ralph V. Estep, Jr. is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse background in finance, accounting, technology, and entrepreneurship. As the principal at Saggio Management Group, Inc., he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in various roles throughout his career.
Ralph's educational journey began at St. Mark's High School in Newark, Delaware before attending the University of Nebraska where he was an esteemed member of the Cornhusker Marching Band and had the privilege of performing at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando.
Continuing his pursuit of knowledge and excellence, Ralph earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from the University of Delaware. He further expanded his academic achievements by obtaining a Master's in Business Administration from Wilmington University.
Throughout his professional journey, Ralph has been recognized for his outstanding accomplishments and commitment to excellence. He is a member of prestigious organizations such as the Golden Key National Honor Society and Beta Gamma Sigma International Business Honor Society.
With an extensive range of professional designations including Licensed Public Accountant (LPA), Accredited Business Accountant (ABA), Accredited Tax Advisor (ATA), Accredited Tax Preparer (ATP), and Internal Revenue Service Registered Tax Preparer (RTRP), Ralph possesses comprehensive expertise in tax preparation and financial management.
Beyond his impressive qualifications, Ralph has actively engaged with various community programs as bo… Read More
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