Investing from the Inside-Out: Lessons from a Seashell Puzzle
Read Time / 3 Minutes
Theme / Biblically Responsible Investing
My wife and I recently completed a seashell puzzle that was unlike any other we’d worked on. Typically, we start by fitting together the border pieces and then building in from there. But this time, we took a different approach. The puzzle contained a few large center pieces that featured individual shells. We started by building outward from those, piecing together smaller pieces around them. Over time, we also completed the puzzle’s border so we could simultaneously build in towards the large pieces.
As we slowly worked our way through the puzzle, I found myself reflecting on the lessons it held. The puzzle reminded me of how we should approach life, including investing: from the inside-out. To invest from the inside-out means to start with the Creator and Sustainer of life, our Heavenly Father. We start by talking to God, bringing our investments before Him.
Ask God for wisdom in choosing investments
We should pray for God’s leading in choosing the companies we invest in, listening to His voice. Some companies profit from products and services which promote harmful behavior. When we invest in companies that profit from pornography, abortion, anti-family entertainment and lifestyles, alcohol, tobacco, and gambling, our profits come from the detriment of others.
In contrast, there are businesses that serve humanity in meaningful ways—those that are advancing medical breakthroughs, developing sustainable energy solutions, or providing clean water worldwide. These investments allow us to partner with companies whose products and services reflect the values of doing good. Galatians 6:10 reminds us, “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone.” Does God want us to invest in companies that build up others rather than tear them down?
Pray for the companies we invest in
Once we’ve prayerfully selected the companies that align with God’s values, it’s important to continue praying for them. Pray that these companies operate with integrity, that they treat their employees well, and that their products continue to bless society. Pray for the leadership — asking that they lead with wisdom, vision, and honor. In the pursuit of profits, pray that companies do not compromise their values for the sake of growth. As investors, our prayers can be a force that encourages these companies to remain true to their calling.
Pray for the customers of the companies we invest in
It’s also essential to pray for the customers who buy the products and services offered by the companies in which we invest. If customers are purchasing items that degrade their lives or society, we should pray that they see the consequences of their choices and seek wisdom. On the other hand, if customers are benefiting from products that enhance their well-being, we can praise God for how our investments are helping to improve lives. Praying for customers can help ensure that the good we seek through our investments will have a lasting, positive impact.
Ask God to help us use the proceeds from our investments for His glory
When our investments yield returns, we must also seek God’s guidance on how to steward those gains. The proceeds from investments—whether through dividends, capital gains, or interest—are a blessing, but they come with responsibility. Should we reinvest them to grow our portfolio to meet future needs (Luke 14:28)? Should we use them to bless others (Acts 20:35)? Is it time to tithe on these gains, honoring God with our wealth (2 Corinthians 9:7)? Perhaps the money should be used to meet immediate needs of our families (1 Timothy 5:8). Whatever the answer may be, we need to pray for wisdom on how to best use the fruits of our investments.
The Rewards of Inside-Out Investing
As we completed our seashell puzzle, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. The center pieces we had started with fit perfectly into the border pieces, and the puzzle slowly came together as one harmonious image. Investing with God’s guidance, starting from the inside and moving outward, is much the same. When we align our investments with God’s will, He leads us to companies and opportunities that reflect His values. Through prayer, we can ensure our investments serve His purposes and ultimately bring glory to His name.
A Prayer for Investors
“Lord, I want to be wise with the financial blessings you’ve given me. Help me invest in companies that bless others through their products and services. Encourage me to pray for those companies and their customers. And guide me in stewarding the proceeds of those investments well. Amen.”
Doug Hanson, MBA
Wealth Advisor
(208) 697-3699
doug@christianwm.com
