Living Life by God’s Standards

Many who style themselves, churchgoers, whether of the Christian or Catholic faith, or any other denomination, rarely live their lives in accordance with the wisdom of biblical scripture. Understandably so, since living one’s life with the understanding that man was made in the image of God has a number of implications. Foremost among them for individuals in the accounting and administrative services arena are the consistent execution of sound financial transactions and the adherence to an ideology of moderation.

On the Job

For a professional accountant working in the finance sector, it is imperative that any interactions with monies operate free from intentions of greed. In fact, if there is any profession where adherence to the laws of God is of utmost importance, it is the professions in finance. In the New Testament book of first Timothy, Paul cautions against one becoming overly concerned with monetary gain, “For the love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10, KJV). What this means for one in the accounting or services is industry is quite simple, but by no means any less profound. In preparing financial statements, for example, accountants striving to live a life pleasing to God should never attempt to manipulate earnings figures, or maliciously alter information according to their purchases, and that any debts to suppliers are likewise up to date, accurate, and paid in a timely manner.

Going Deeper

Yet another aspect of the accountant's field that is subject to the image of God, in which we are created, is the manner in which his own finances are handled. Correctly representing the materiality of financial statements and figures for his clients is certainly important, but equally important is the notion that his own financial credibility remains intact. While debt and the American economy is simply a part of adult life, what with the advent of credit cards and mortgages and car loans, excessive borrowing can easily ensue if one’s financial position is not consistently kept in check. The apostle Paul again warns his readers to be weary of the excess in life, instead proclaiming, “Let your moderation be known unto all men,” (Philippians 4:5, KJV). And in Hebrews chapter 13, verse 5, believers are instructed, “ Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have,” ( Hebrews 13:5, ESV). It is important to recognize though, that the significance of moderation far exceeds any references to food or drink. To live the life of one created in the image of God, moderation must be practiced in the areas of work, family, and hobbies, and, in the 21st century, especially in one’s finances.

Conclusion

While the Bible states that are all born into sin, being created in the image of God offers people the opportunity to choose to do with their life what they will. As one studying the accounting and services profession, though, living a life in the image of Him necessitates certain ethical and moral guidelines be followed in one’s personal and professional life. This begs to question, can one live a moral life without religion? In reality, however, maintaining a sense of moderation and promoting transparency in financial transactions are two characteristics that would enhance any professional setting.

Works Cited

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Wheaton: Crossway, 2008. Print.

The Holy Bible, King James Version. LRG Ed. Edward E. Hindson. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2002. Print.