“Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.” (Matthew 13:31 - 32)

Yesterday we talked about how dogs never catch seagulls on the beach and how that is similar to the futility of us chasing after riches. The question I left you with was, how do we attract the birds (riches) if we are not supposed to chase after them? (It’s not just that we are not supposed to chase after them, it’s also an exercise in futility!)

Before I give you the answer I will tell you that in 1960, a study among graduating college students was begun. They were asked whether they would pursue money, get themselves established and then pursue their dream or pursue their dream and not worry about the money. 83% of the students chose what seemed like the more responsible choice to take care of finances first. Twenty years later there were a total of 101 millionaires out of the two groups. All but one came from the 17% in the group that pursued their dream instead of chasing finances. Selah.

So here’s the deal… What dream has God put in your heart? What business idea has He given you? Think of it as a tree you are responsible for. Cultivate it well. Prune it. Water it. Care for it. The birds (riches) will come and lodge in it. A well run business with a strong value proposition will attract birds so you never have to chase them. Focus more on developing the tree than on trying to catch the birds with a stick you broke off a tree.

And here’s another thought… the tree that Jesus said would grow up and be the greatest among the herbs and attract the birds, was a mustard tree. Why is that significant? Because He compares the mustard seed to faith. (This is not about the size of our faith!) So, are you growing a business (tree) rooted in faith or did you simply choose it because you heard you could make a pile of money in it? “Whatever is not of faith is sin.” (Rom 14:23).  Selah again.

Friends, success in business has so much to do with what we focus on, what we are chasing, whether or not we are building in faith or building on covetousness. If you would like to see what 29 top Christian leaders have to say about this topic, get one of the last copies of How to Manage a Million Dollars or Less for just $7 now.

Today is the last in our series of entries from our special guest, John Muratori. Read through to the end to find out how you can hear more from John…

12 Biblical Laws of Wealth Creation

Like the law of gravity, The Twelve Biblical Laws of Wealth Creation just exist. They are the most universal set of directives on prosperity — trans-cultural, trans-generational, not bound by economics. Regardless of your age, environment, or financial situation, these 12 laws will stop the lack and shape your financial destiny. While I did not make up these 12 laws, I did spend a lifetime discovering them. It has been a journey of difficulty, trial, success and failure.

In “Rich Church Poor Church,” I devote a full one-third of my book to the study of these 12 laws. There isn’t space here for even an executive summary so I will share with you just one law — the most critical to your future wealth and well-being. It is the Law of the Brand. It is the foundation on which the other eleven laws are firmly established. It’s also the linchpin that holds them all together.

Businesspeople will recognize the brand as a company name or product name. Corporations spend millions of dollars defining themselves through their names, symbols and identities, then even more keeping that brand name in front of the public.

Your name is your brand and you should give priority to establishing a good name for yourself. Most people will never get to know you intimately, so your character is only known by the name and reputation that precedes you.

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.” (Proverbs 22:1 KJV)

A good name carries with it a high perceived value. If you have a reputation of honesty and integrity, you’ll find more doors opened to you, more acceptance into circles of influence and more resources given to you. If you have a reputation of getting the job done, of cutting costs or producing wealth, you are worth more in compensation to an employer or client. But it’s not just about business.

Your family relations weigh heavily on your good name. Do you keep the promises you make with your spouse and children? Or do you repeatedly miss that little league game, the piano recital or the chance to just hang out together? When our names no longer symbolize integrity and justice, businesspeople will no longer trust us with their resources and family members will no longer trust us with the secrets in their hearts.

“…[Jesus] increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” (Luke 2:52)

Even in his youth, Jesus had a good name before many. Ultimately, the religious and political establishments would come to despise that name as many do to this day. But to the hurting, sick, and needy, His name is matchless in its ability to bring comfort and hope. What does your name say about you?

Coming This Thursday: Details on How You Can Receive Your FREE Copy of John Muratori’s Best Selling Book, Rich Church, Poor Church
This 300 + page hardback book is crammed with insight and revelation that can revolutionize your world. John Muratori demystifies spirituality and prosperity so you can be wealthy - God’s Way. John blends decades of business experience, intensive research and proven leadership to present you with the specific laws that govern the entire spectrum of wealth generation. As a subscriber here at Selling Among Wolves, you’ll have an advance opportunity to take advantage of this special opportunity. Check your inbox tomorrow for a limited offer you won’t want to miss.

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