There is always something or someone vying for our hearts; the list seems endless: spouse, friends, the latest technological device, cars, even God.  Think about the relationship with things (what money can buy) and how it can affect relationships with others (spouse particularly). The reality is that couples often avoid talking about money which can lead to a strained relationship.  Why?

The issue of money is truly a heart matter that impacts other areas of your life. In my role as a financial advisor, I have come to realize the need of speaking to the heart of clients rather than just talking about rates of returns. The heart discussion involves talking about what motivates financial decisions.  Many advisors are satisfied that a financial decision is made and avoid the deeper questions. Asking a question like, “Are husband and wife on the same page with the decision?” is necessary because it directly impacts the relationship.

The challenge is this: “The heart is a twisted thing, not to be searched out by man: who is able to have knowledge of it?” (Jer. 17:9 BBE).  How can our hearts be known? David prayed: “Search me, O God, and know my heart” (Psalm. 139:23). He continues, “see if there be any wicked way in me” meaning any hurtful way or habit. Relate this to finances; it is very easy to create bad habits in spending because the heart is attracted to so many things. The term “wicked way” can also be translated idol.  Mankind can easily establish an idol without even recognizing it, which is the reason for David’s prayer. His prayer was “see if there be?” Clearly he was uncertain about his own heart. How can we know our own hearts then, especially as it relates to money? Who is qualified to help?

“The word of God is alive and powerful … It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires” (Heb. 4:12 NLT).  This is the reason it is important for financial professionals and counsellors to incorporate biblical wisdom into their advice; because it reveals what is in the heart.

“A plan in the heart of a man is like deep waters …” (Prov. 20:5a NASB).  The innermost thoughts and desires can be difficult to explore. This verse goes on to say “… but those with understanding can draw it out” (v. 5b NCV). In other words, we need to be people who do not lean on our own understanding, who will help search for what may be hidden in hearts, and what motivates our decisions. The entrance of biblical truth is the light that exposes innermost thoughts and desires.

Are you an advisor with understanding that can help clients accomplish their financial goals? Are you willing to help search out the deep waters? Have you become a person of understanding in your work and personal relationships? Are others seeking you out because they desire to have deeper conversations?

MANDY BUJOLD, IN RED, WAS COMPETING IN HER FIRST OLYMPICS AND WAS HOSPITALIZED THE NIGH BEFORE HER QUARTER-FINAL BOUT. (CHRISTIAN PETERSEN/AFP-GETTY IMAGES)

As I have had occasion to tune into some of the olympic coverage, I was struck by a story that many may have missed or overlooked. Boxer Mandy Bujold had a disappointing finish to the Rio Olympics after she lost her bout on points.  On CBC’s coverage, Clara Hughes helped by adding some perspective to this story. Mandy had been sick and went straight from having an IV in her arm, as she lay in a hospital bed, to the venue for her event.

Clara Hughes said, “bringing all you have is what matters.”

‘I don’t do anything unless I do it 100 per cent,’ Bujold says.

So many athletes have the experience of participating in the olympics yet, fail to collect a medal, so Clara’s quote to bring your best is very significant. Clara cited her experience of cycling and finishing second last (in her first Olympics)  but said that this experience “changed her.” Clara later earned medals in summer & winter Olympics so she knows the importance of bringing your best.

The reality is bringing all you have may vary depending on situations faced each day, some of which are beyond your control. Some may say winning is all that matters, but isn’t what you bring to the game just as or even more important? It is great to finish on the podium, but living your life everyday knowing you have given a 100% effort is truly rewarding. Isn’t being faithful and bringing all you have what matters most? Can you say the same for your everyday work has Bujold said?

“I don’t do anything unless I do it 100%”

 

In an article published in the Globe and Mail July 5th, 2016, Greg Pollock, President and CEO at Advocis said, “Academic research has confirmed that those who work with a financial adviser accumulate more wealth and are better protected than those who don’t.” This clearly demonstrates the value that financial professionals bring to client relationships.

Adding value is key to retaining clients and growing your business. Here are some insightful questions to ask: How meaningful are the discussions you have with clients? Have you considered why the clients with whom you have a relationship currently are in your life? Are you helping them discover and fulfill their true purpose? Have you clearly defined the value you bring to those who choose to work with you?

I am certain many Canadians desire to gain financial security and therefore, should look to a financial advisor. I am also convinced that many people have dreams and goals that are buried beneath the many cares of life that have choked that vision. Without someone to water that seed, the dream will remain unfulfilled. The goal of accumulating more in life can also deceive people into believing they will never have enough and distract them from what their heart truly desires. Does the value you provide and the wisdom you share extend beyond financial fitness? Are you willing to probe deeper, so that dreams that have been buried below the surface can actually be uncovered, grow and bear fruit?

The mandate of Kingdom Advisors is to help people understand their purpose and help them steward all they have been given. This includes more than finances. Financial resources can be important to accomplish goals but our advice to clients can actually go beyond this. The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water but it needs to be drawn out or exposed (see Prov. 20:5). Are you an advisor of understanding who will help clients move toward their purpose? Are you able to help them move to being more fulfilled and content in life? Isn’t it true that when you help others move toward contentment, you move to a new level of fulfillment as well?