I recently tuned into a podcast about wealth creation, hosted by a young man seeking advice on building wealth and an older gentleman who is wealthy. The topic was closing the wealth gap. The older gentleman advised investing early and frequently in the stock market, focusing particularly on ETFs rather than single stocks. Essentially his advice is to do what the wealthy do which is make your money work for you by investing and not limiting your income to what you earn from a 9-5.  

This advice and perspective were notable for two reasons.

First, they didn’t frame the wealth gap conversation in terms of race; specifically, the comparison of wealth between Black and White Americans.

Instead, they discussed it in the context of the general population and the difference in income between the 1% and everyone else.

Secondly, the absence of government-led solutions was striking. There was no mention of policies, programs, marches, or taxing the rich.

This contrasts greatly with the solutions typically proposed for economic issues in the Black community, which often involve government action.

This observation further affirmed my belief that what we are traditionally taught about money and economics is not meant to empower us but to position us as a permanent economic underclass and dependents. This makes us vulnerable to manipulation for votes by those who promote and leverage social programs for their gain.

The concept of investing to generate wealth is not originally a capitalist or Western idea; it is rooted in biblical principles, specifically the principle of multiplication. This revelation came to me during a personal financial challenge. In prayer, God revealed that focusing too heavily on my fashion brand was akin to having all my eggs in one basket and approaching work as if it were a 9-5 job. He showed me that wealth is not created merely by exchanging time for money. We are often taught to earn money, but God’s will is for us to multiply it. Multiplication of wealth is achieved through investing in various avenues like stocks, real estate, or business ventures.

While the term ‘capitalism’ and its associated abuses may not be biblical, the underlying concepts of a free market, private ownership, and generating income through one’s own efforts are. Deuteronomy 8:18 emphasizes remembering the Lord as the giver of the ability to produce wealth.

To find solutions that don’t tie us to political affiliations or increase government control, we must start with full surrender and faith in Jesus Christ. The future belongs to those who can move beyond the painful history of slavery and modern misconceptions, recognizing the opportunities around us and the gifts within us. Utilizing these gifts for the glory of God and the betterment of future generations is the true path to closing the wealth gap.