Crazy Money – Pastor Caldwell and Wire Fraud

It’s Crazy Money Day!

It’s important to pay down credit card debt, but do it legally! Megachurch pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell used $900,000 he received in a fraudulent investment scheme to pay down his credit cards and mortgages and maintain his lifestyle. He was a spiritual adviser to Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Known for his entrepreneurship and philanthropy, he invested millions into community development and job creation in SW Houston. Last March, Caldwell pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He and his Louisiana-based investment adviser influenced elderly people to invest $3.5 million in historical Chinese bonds, but those bonds aren’t recognized by China’s government and have no investment value. He claims to have paid full restitution to all the victims, but in November, he was sentenced to six years in prison.

Biblical stewards know they’re managers of what God entrusts to them. They recognize his ownership and live in such a way that God can spend them however He wants. Whether managing a lot or a little, we must surrender our financial choices to God’s control. Ask Him to give you that desire. Paul told Timothy: “…godliness is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment…. but those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction.” (1 Timothy 6:9)

Now credit card debt is a symptom of this very point. If you’re struggling to pay yours, I recommend Christian Credit Counselors. For more information call the Crown Helpline: 800-722-1976 or visit online at crown.org/ccc.