Know When to Hold ‘Em"

Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom (Luke 12:32)

We all want to choose the best investments for our families. You have goals and want to fulfill the purpose for Jesus laid upon you.

Yet uncertainty is everywhere. Markets tumble. Elections come and go. “Experts” online and on TV cause you to question investing principles that have remained for decades.

When the market takes a dive, you will likely be tempted to cut your losses and preserve what you have left. 

When times get tough and you are losing money, you may begin to doubt your decision to invest. What do all these numbers on my statement or my computer screen mean, really?  

As believers, we value good stewardship and we know the best investments should be held for a long time.

Some TV personalities and investment “experts” will tell you to treat your investments in the same manner people on the “Jerry Springer Show” treat their relationships - with no real drive for commitment. But you know better and you are different. You invest in your relationships and in your stocks for the long-term. Stay steadfast and tune out the noise around you.

So what do you do when markets turn down and you are tempted to sell?

First, make sure you are in low-cost funds with low turnover. These types of investments should do better over time than high-expense, high-turnover funds. Second, stay diversified. You should have larger companies and smaller companies, domestic companies and international companies. Lastly, relax and let markets work. They do not always go up in the short-term. when you invest in stocks you are investing in people. Remember, it all belongs to Jesus anyway, so He will do what He wants with it.

Don’t be quick to let go when markets get challenging. Jesus knew when to hold onto a good investment. He is holding you and me. Remember, His plan is good - in up markets and in down markets.  

We are all rich already.  Jesus holds onto you, and you are one of his best investments. While investing your money for His kingdom, do likewise. Choose the best investments and hold them for a long time.

Lord Jesus, help me to invest with patience and diligence, and to make wise decisions when uncertainty comes.