The Bible teaches us not only to invest wisely for personal gain while here on earth, but also to invest wisely for eternal gain as well. Like my relative making the small investment, if we are patient, even small things can become much greater.

The Bible parable of the mustard seed, the parable about the steward who reduced debts others owed to his master to gain personal favor with others and the passage in the Old Testiment concerning the widow who gave her very last meal to the prophet Elijah are three Biblical references that come to mind. If you remember your Bible, Jesus stated that we should be like the man who made friends by using our wealth while here on earth...... Jesus also stated that a tiny seed such as the mustard seed could grow into a very large plant and the widow woman that gave up her and her son's last meal, reaped a large dividend thereafter being fed miraculously for years afterward.

These passages as well as other Bible verses encourage giving and investments for a future gain. Christians with understanding would make every effort to use at least some of their wealth toward wise eternal investing.

Luke 12: "Sell your possessions and give to charity; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys."

That verse and others like it in the Bible appear to be crystal clear messages from God about what to do. We should make wise investments, even to the point of selling an object we own if that is what it takes in order to make it happen. One can make a plan and set aside something, anything toward an eternal investment.

Remember, it's not just big gifts that God notices, but small one's too. (Jesus observed the woman that gave 1 penny in the Temple, and He said that she gave more than everyone else.) Mark 12:41-44

If you don't believe you have enough income to invest for eternity, perhaps you can begin in a small way by devoting small change gathering dust, in your home or couch, toward charity or missions this year. After all, what good is money or a possession if it will never be used or invested?

It isn't always money, but it can also be time and intent. Jesus mentioned giving rewards for even giving water to someone to drink, food, visiting prisoners and giving help to the needy. God views it all and He is taking note of everything you do. Even the prayers you pray may receive rewards. You may be the only person praying for a need, a missionary or person and your prayers move God's heart.

Jesus also told a parable about a man who buried an investment opportunity instead of putting it to use for fear of losing it. However, that person was not rewarded for that by the man who gave him the opportunity in the first place. Remember, when you are faithful in small things, God will put you in charge of greater things. Matthew 25:21

Another idea for giving may include dedicating small change found while walking and getting exercise. Believe it or not, some people drop coins by accident and walk away from them on the street or parking lot. If you see one and if it is safe to do so, you could bend down, and pick it up. Then you could even give that money to a good cause or mission work, or to the poor. Novel idea isn't it? Coins from heaven and God is recording your action for a later reward. These are small idea's but they are opportunities as well. The Bible seems to teach us that one day God will judge many who wouldn't give to others even small things. Read Matthew 25:31-46.

There are many missionaries, legitimate charities, and worthy causes around the world which would be happy to receive a card, a prayer, a letter and a financial gift of support. If you haven't begun your truelly "long term" investing plan, then the Bible's advice to you is clear.