How Christian Principles Can Guide Your Investment Success

Investing in the stock market can feel like stepping into a whirlwind. For many people, it’s a maze of numbers, trends, and predictions that can leave your head spinning. But Jean Reiling, retired for over 20 years and completely debt-free, offers a different perspective. How did she manage to thrive in such a complex field? It’s not just about following investment rules—it’s about living by faith-based principles.

The Power of Simple, Faithful Investment

Jean has a straightforward belief: “If you follow the right principles, it just works.” But there’s more to the story than just good financial advice. For Jean, her success in investments is directly tied to her faith in God.

“I give God the credit,” she says, “because I’ve been giving and receiving. It’s just a matter of reciprocity.”

You might be thinking, “Reciprocity? How does that fit into investing?” Well, it’s a principle she learned early on while growing up on her parents’ farm. It’s about planting seeds—both literally and figuratively. Jean recalls the timeless lesson she observed: "You plant a seed, you have a harvest, you reap it, and then you plant again." This cycle of giving and receiving became the foundation of how she approached not only her investments but her entire life.

Planting Financial Seeds: Investing Through Faith

Much like planting crops, Jean realized that planting seeds of money can also yield a harvest. But here’s the key difference: Jean wasn’t just focused on gaining wealth. For her, it was about making an impact beyond herself.

“I’m on this earth to give to God’s kingdom,” she shares, “and encourage others to do the same.”

Jean’s story reflects a deeper truth that resonates with many believers. When you invest—whether it’s in the stock market, your career, or even in relationships—it’s not only about getting a return for yourself. It’s about building something greater. For Jean, this meant giving generously to causes like the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) and Orphan’s Promise, both of which focus on meeting the needs of people around the world.

"Wherever there’s a tragedy, there’s a need," she says, “and 700 Club is there to help.”

The Principle of Reciprocity: Giving Back to God's Kingdom

One of the most striking aspects of Jean’s story is how her giving is connected to her financial success. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of accumulating wealth for personal gain, but Jean views her financial blessings as a way to give back to God’s kingdom. It’s a beautiful cycle—she plants financial seeds through giving, reaps blessings, and then plants again by giving even more.

The Bible is full of examples of this principle of reciprocity, such as in Luke 6:38: "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap."

Jean lives by this truth and encourages others to do the same. She believes that by listening to God’s promptings, you can give at just the right time—and it works.

Practical Tips for Faith-Based Investing

Now, you might be wondering how to apply this wisdom in your own life, especially when it comes to investing. Here are a few takeaways from Jean’s story:

1. Follow Biblical Principles: Just like farming, investing requires patience and faith. Plant your financial seeds, trusting that God will bring the increase.

2. Give Generously: Whether through tithing, supporting missions, or contributing to causes close to your heart, don’t forget that your financial blessings are also a tool for serving others.

3. Listen to God's Promptings: Jean encourages everyone to stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit. When you feel led to give, trust that God will provide for you in return. It’s all about obedience and faith.

4. Invest with Purpose: Remember, it’s not just about the numbers. Your investments should align with your values and faith, impacting both your life and the world around you.

The Harvest Awaits

Jean Reiling’s success in the stock market is no mystery when you look at the deeper principles she follows. By planting seeds, trusting God’s process, and giving faithfully, she’s reaped more than financial rewards—she’s made a lasting impact on God’s kingdom.

Her story is a reminder that faith and finances don’t have to be separate. When you give God control of your investments, He has a way of multiplying your efforts in ways you could never imagine. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of investing, take a step back and remember this simple truth: God is the ultimate provider.

Why not try it? Plant your seeds of faith, invest with purpose, and watch as God brings the harvest.