Recently, I shared a parable about the wise manager. Once again, I marveled at how the CFO used the owner’s finances to make friends and gain favor with his boss and those indebted to the estate. In this parable, Jesus illustrates that we can use money to build friendships. This concept can teach us valuable lessons from the world, particularly the rule of reciprocity. 

For example, when you dine at a restaurant, and the server presents your bill, you often find a small mint included. This mint typically costs around three cents. However, an extraordinary phenomenon occurs when you receive this mint with a smiley face that says, “Thank you for coming.” This simple gesture, statistically, often leads to an automatic increase in the tip. In another instance, imagine someone at a car dealership who says, “I’m not going to buy anything today.” What’s the first thing the salesperson does? They offer a complimentary bottle of water, which costs about twenty-five cents. The intent behind this gesture is clear: it’s a way of saying, “Here’s a bottle of water; consider buying a car from us.” Surprisingly, studies have shown that this small act significantly increases the likelihood of a customer deciding to purchase a car.

Friend, as you use your money to create unseen wealth, keep your heart filled with love! As your wealth opens doors, remember that you are called to serve. When you meet new friends, strive to be an ambassador for the Kingdom of God and demonstrate God’s goodness wherever you go.