… is a rule of thumb applicable to most financial transactions, and now it is a principle to apply to the financial press as well.  In reporting events of the recent financial crisis, it is clear that the media has played no small role in stoking investor fears.  This is not to say that there is not plenty of bad news to report, but the media could do a much better job of reporting the news in context instead of writing attention grabbing headlines.  Take this article for example – “Foreclosures in Maryland surge 32%” - which could easily lead us to conclude that the rate of foreclosures is reaching an unimagined level.  Yet, a close read of the article paints a different picture: this was simply the one month increase of October over September.  In reality, October foreclosures decreased 16% from the same period last year.  One home in Maryland was in foreclosure for every 774 homes.  This works out to be 0.0013%.

Not everything is rosy and the bad news needs to be reported.  Just remember to read the fine print.

For many people, the idea of giving away their hard-earned money is a radical concept that seems to be irrational at best.  For others, giving has become a routine more than a passion and a duty more than a calling.  Wherever you find yourself on this spectrum consider listening to these messages entitled The Genius of Generosity by Chip Ingram and made available through the ministry of Living on the Edge.  Accompanying each message is a PDF outline which is a guide for the message followed by key points of application.