Wealth creation refers to building wealth through diverse methods (which involve a variety of products) with the intention of receiving higher returns on investments. People often associate wealth with a certain class of people. It is seen as unattainable, belonging only to the bourgeoisie who are perceived as materialistic in outlook. Today, however, the Women’s Union of St. Mary’s Catholic Church has put together a seminar on the topic and three particularly active members of the union are in attendance.

Moira is involved in e-commerce. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she recognised an opportunity around the delivery of raw food items and provisions to households. The restrictions placed on movement and particularly the avoidance of crowded areas threw up a need for households to receive food items with minimum exposure to the virus. The convenience she provides has afforded her loyal customers and increased patronage from referrals. She gladly informs all who inquire that the success of the business is built on four pillars – an alignment with God’s will for her, passion for what she does, taking advantage of the opportunity when it arose and painstakingly keeping at it. She makes comfortable returns from it for the sustenance of the family but is eager to improve her finances.

Bambi, a top-notch banker is also attentive as to how to maximise returns. In recent times, the family has depended increasingly on her income as the children gain admission to higher institutions of learning and she is worried about the inflationary trend in the country which has hit double digits. She recently started a” side hustle” exporting African wear to the UK and this is giving her some returns in foreign exchange. Her mother often chastises her, insisting that wealth creation is the responsibility of men and not of women. She is therefore keen on understanding her role, especially from a Christian perspective.

Pattie is a stay-at-home spouse turned Hairdresser with a thriving salon in the city. She is currently considering opening a branch in an upscale part of the town. She observed that since starting the business she continues to make valuable contributions to the family’s resources which has earned her the respect of her husband and other members of their extended family. She is therefore keen on maximising returns, especially in the face of the crippling economic conditions in the country.

The Speaker’s opening remarks were “In these globally ever-challenging times, it is more important than ever before that women guard their finances to enable the financial stability of both her family and herself. In order to do so, whether as a professional or in business, she must hone her survival skills and her ability to create and sustain wealth.” She defined wealth as “An abundance of valuable possessions, material prosperity or a plentiful supply of a particular resource. It therefore follows that wealth is not limited to money but spans assets e.g. real estate, businesses, gold, stock, etc.”

She continued – “Is it wrong to desire wealth? Deuteronomy 8:18 the Bible informs us that God gives us the ability to create wealth. So, it is a God-given ability and there is therefore nothing wrong with it. The parable of the ten talents in Matthew further establishes that God expects us to utilise our God-given talents by expanding and increasing them.

So, what is the place of the woman in this? In Genesis 2:18, Eve was created to be a helpmate (helper) to Adam. It follows therefore that women are expected to assist their husbands in all things including their finances. Proverbs 31 – further extols the virtues of a hardworking woman who generates income from trade and invests such income, verse 16 states that “she buys a field from her earnings and plants a vineyard.” She is referred to as virtuous. In addition, the Bible in Acts16:13-15 mentions Lydia, a successful businesswoman dealing in expensive clothing. Her industry was celebrated.

Today, most women can earn an income or profit from some form of business, trade etc. However, to assist, especially in inflationary economies, against value erosion, there are three things a woman must be intentional about.

1. SAVE: To achieve this you must be focused on prioritising items of expenditure and cutting off frivolities. Focus on needs not wants.
2. INVEST what is saved: There are different Instruments roughly categorised into Capital Market, Money market, Hybrid, Foreign currency, Bitcoin, Real Estate, ETFs, REITs, Insurance schemes etc.
3. GIVE: The Bible promises in Luke that if you give you will receive in multiples. This principle works. As you give intentionally to the propagation of God’s word and as you assist others in need, you will receive favour, health, finances, wealth etc. Your giving need not be monetary to enable you to be blessed.

The seminar ended with a declaration…” When others say there is a casting down, your testimony shall be a lifting up in accordance with Job 22:29”.

Love

Havilah

P.S. It is advised that you get professional advice from an Investment Adviser on the best instruments that fit your risk appetite and pocket.