Obedient Christians

One concern I have about modern religion is that many Christians are taught from childhood to be obedient and nice.  Unfortunately, we seem to forget just how unruly most of the great Bible heroes were.  They often rebuked kings, religious authorities, and leaders from other nations.  They were downright troublemakers when they came across anything that worked against God's purpose.

What does this have to do with stress free finances? 

Many financial scams are aimed at Christians since so many of us are nice and we tend to have faith.  I have seen many fellow Christians fall victim to pyramid schemes, gifting schemes, and other ploys.  A less obvious issue is that so many of us are just following the crowd in financial matters.  I am slowly learning to go against the crowd rather than just trying to get along with everyone. 

What do you think about the following commonly accepted financial advice?

• Life takes Visa
• Buy the most expensive house you can afford
• Help your Christian friends make money by getting them to join xyz
• Behind on your mortgage?  Send us money and we will help you
• Use other peoples money to leverage your wealth  
• Buy and hold stock mutual funds
• A new car is safer than an old car