Discovering True Riches: A Journey of Heart and Finances
I recently dove into True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart by John Cortines and Gregory Baumer, and it felt like I was opening a door to a long-forgotten room in my heart—one filled with treasures of wisdom and truth about money, generosity, and one’s relationship with God. As someone who has wrestled with the complexities of finances throughout various stages of life, this book caught my attention as a refreshing take on a subject often shrouded in anxiety and fear.
Cortines and Baumer invite us to think about money not merely as a transactional tool, but as a spiritual framework—an extension of our hearts. The four pivotal transformations outlined—moving from pride to gratitude, coveting to contentment, anxiety to generosity, and indifference to love—serve as guiding principles to realigning our financial decisions with our faith. This shift in perspective resonates deeply; suddenly, the act of giving becomes less about obligation and more about joy.
One of my favorite aspects of the book is the blend of personal anecdotes with scriptural insights. The authors share their own stories of grappling with financial pressure, which makes their message feel genuine and approachable. They weave in passages from the Bible, grounding their insights in a foundation that many faith-based readers will appreciate. I found myself pausing often to reflect on verses I had overlooked, like the importance of giving ultimately reflecting our relationship with God.
The writing style is conversational yet impactful. Cortines and Baumer masterfully balance deep teachings with a straightforward narrative, allowing readers to digest complex concepts easily. The pacing kept me engaged, and I often felt compelled to underline passages that resonated with me. One quote particularly struck a chord: “The way we handle money is less about the dollars we gain and more about the hearts we shape.” This highlights that our financial habits have the potential to nurture—not just our wallets but our very souls.
As I turned each page, I felt a stirring within—a call to embrace the joyful generosity the authors encourage. The practical tools included, such as budgeting charts and application steps for journaling, serve as useful resources for those wanting to put their newfound insights into practice. I can imagine discussing these strategies in a group setting, as many reviewers have shared it provides great material for discussion.
For anyone feeling overwhelmed by financial responsibilities or questioning their approach to giving, True Riches is a must-read. Cortines and Baumer provide a refreshing perspective that is not just about money—it’s about living a life reflective of God’s generosity and love. Whether you’re a seasoned steward or just starting to navigate the world of finances, this book invites a sense of peace and contentment that I personally found transformative.
In a culture so often fixated on wealth accumulation, True Riches inspired me to reassess the true treasures of life—love, community, and the joy of giving. If you, too, seek greater fulfillment in your financial journey, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It just might change how you view wealth forever.
You can find True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart here >>