Summer greetings from the Business Office! In my last article I referenced inflation and price increases. Since then, things have gotten a bit worse: inflation for the 12 months ending in May had been projected to come in at 8.3% but the actual rate was 8.6%, the highest in over 40 years. Yet I do not worry about price increases because I know that God is true to his Word and will provide for those that trust him.
Last month I had the privilege of being able to present our financial report during the Annual Meeting, and one of the things I mentioned is our overall expenses for 2021 were only 3.3% higher than the previous year, indicating that we all work together to steward the resources with which God has blessed us. Overall donations this year have been off to a bit of a slow start, but I am confident that God will provide for us even during these times of global uncertainty. Now that interest rates are starting to rise, we will continue to be good stewards and seek the best return on our cash balances. We will also meet more regularly with our investment advisors to ensure that our investments are properly aligned with our investment policy.
At the June Board meeting, it was decided to add another Board member to the Finance Committee and have an additional Board member serve in an advisory capacity. These two individuals bring many years of God-honoring financial knowledge and experience to WMPL: God has clearly directed these decisions. His own word in Proverbs 3:5-6, one of my favorite passages, says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (NKJV)
Last month was a very busy month with the Board meeting, Annual Meeting, and staff and workers family camp – and it all happened in the first half of June! We were blessed to have Pastor Nathan and Joy Hoff from Trinity Lutheran Church of San Pedro, California, minister to us in Word and music while we gathered at Mount Carmel Ministries. It was an additional blessing to have excellent weather, and we enjoyed many outdoor activities. One of my favorite events was the talent show: who knew that our group’s special talents include music, drama, stand-up comedy, cartography, and even beat boxing?
Once again, God has graciously provided for our workers and all received 100% of their allowance during the month of May. Praise the Lord for his continued provision and sustenance!
GOD’S PROVISION – May 2022
| Minimum allowance provided: | 100% |
| Other figures unavailable at time of printing. |