Today's Economic Climate

We minister in tumultuous economic times. For youth workers and our students, money matters have rocketed to the top of our concerns. Here are some of my money lessons from more than 30 years of ministry-most of it working with youth.

Choose Impact over High Income

I've never had a large income, owned a luxurious house or the latest sports car; but I don't regret my path-not for a minute. Choosing the path of greatest impact over the path of greatest income has led to richer experiences and richer memories-much more deeply satisfying than a richer bank account.

After seminary, I co-pastored a church, later feeling the call to full-time youth ministry. I took a drop in salary but experienced an increase in impact potential. Then the walls to Eastern Europe toppled, and Slovakia longed for youth worker training and materials. So, I accepted God's call to missions. After my wife was diagnosed with cancer, we returned to the States; and I became a writer of youth ministry resources, which I continue to be into my 50s. I have a worldwide impact through my written resources.

From pastor to youth minister to missionary to writer isn't exactly moving up the corporate ladder. To make ends meet and plan for the future, I had to take a closer look at the Scripture about money management and get a lot of advice from wise people along the way.