As a financial advisor and member of St. Paul, East Troy, Wis., Jim Schwartz realizes that many people are typically financially stressed. “But in today’s economy,” he says, “many more are desperate.” Schwartz long felt that a solid, Christian financial program was lacking in his profession.

As a pastor in Farmington, N.M., Jim Fleming’s congregation is socially and ethnically diverse (Hispanic, Anglo, and Native American). “After living here and learning about the different cultures,” Fleming reflects, “I soon realized that there is another culture that has a tremendous influence on our people—the culture of American materialism.” Fleming’s search for a financial Bible study that he could use to guide and counsel families ended in frustration.

Enter Heart in Focus—a new course from WELS Adult Discipleship that trains individuals in wise, faith-focused finances. The course has come as an answered prayer for Fleming, Schwartz, and many others.

Along with stewardship workshops for congregational leaders and financial seminars for called workers, Heart in Focus is another resource under the umbrella called Faith Focused Finances. It is suggested as a regular course that can be offered by a congregation to members and the community.

The motto for Heart in Focus is “Viewing money matters through spiritual eyes.” Co-author Pastor David Kehl says, “Personal finance is one of the real challenges that affect spiritual life, family life, and concern for others—often producing a fear that diverts Christians from the peace and contentment found in Christ.” Each of the course’s six sessions offers both Christ-focused and practical approaches to finances.

First, “time is spent understanding the pull of our hearts in the direction of the treasures of this world and the consumerism that feeds our perceptions of needs and wants,” Kehl explains. Next, practical steps are outlined for giving, saving, and investing; eliminating debt; and making wise daily choices. Final sessions help participants shift their priorities to reflect who they are and what they see as God’s calling for their lives.

“Now with the stock market decline, the suffering housing market, and the banking crisis, we are seeing an even greater need for people to realize what is most important in life, to gain trust in who their God is, and to follow practical steps to wisely live with the situations they are facing,” Kehl reflects.