SPSA Church Giving (opens in a new tab)

Questions & Answers

Investment

Faith Q&A › Metropolitan Youssef › Christian Living › Investment

The question

In a prior question, I was advised to avoid investing in the stock market because I might worry about it daily and it may take my heart away from serving God. Would you advise against stock investment in an employer sponsored 401k as well? Typically, stocks do not get sold and bought daily and in some cases never sold until retirement. Are the interest rates received considered usury?

The answer

Stock investment in an employer sponsored 401k program is approved. The interest rates are not considered usury. It is as if you are putting money in a bank account that receives variable interest rates. It is wise to have a few investments, but never set your heart on money or riches. These are just tools. The more you acquire, the more obligation you have to give to others. God wants you to work hard and be diligent in all your efforts. Giving from laboring is far more precious than giving from excess.

“Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (Luke 12:15).

Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)

Related questions

Questions answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab) of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. Question 2146 on the Diocese’s Q&A site. Questions and answers © Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. All rights reserved.