We live in a culture that glorifies major wins. Whether it’s viral videos, lottery dreams, or cryptocurrency millionaires, we are constantly told that the only investments worth making are those that yield substantial returns quickly. However, I would argue, invest early, invest often. I want to discuss a quieter yet powerful truth: slow and steady still wins the race.
It all begins with just $25 a month.
Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor, and this post is not intended to provide investment advice. I am simply sharing observations and examples that have helped me contemplate long-term stewardship and planning.
The Power of Compound Growth (Even in Small Amounts)
Let’s discuss math—but the kind that can transform your future. If you invest consistently and patiently over time, even small amounts can develop into something substantial. Here are three straightforward scenarios that assume an average annual return of 8%:
📈 Scenario 1: $25/Month Starting at Age 20
- Age 30: ~$4,500
- Age 40: ~$13,700
- Age 65: ~$74,000
💪 Scenario 2: $100/Month Starting at Age 20
- Age 30: ~$18,000
- Age 40: ~$55,000
- Age 65: Over $296,000
🔁 Scenario 3: $100/Month Starting at Age 35
- Age 65: ~$140,000
(Still meaningful—but you can clearly see the power of starting early.)
Time is your greatest ally in the world of investing. The sooner you begin, the more you gain from compound interest—earning interest on your interest.
It’s Not About the Amount—It’s About the Habit
Starting early establishes a rhythm. It’s not about the dollar amount—it’s about the discipline. Much like tithing, saving, or praying, small, consistent habits form a lifetime.
If you wait until you “have more,” chances are you’ll keep waiting. Life always finds a way to fill your margins. However, if you learn to set aside even a small portion now, it can create a future for which you will be grateful—and one in which you’re better positioned to bless others.
Stewardship Is Biblical
In Luke 16:10 (KJV), Jesus said, “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much…” Learning to invest early—even a small amount—is a form of stewardship. You are wisely managing what God has given you, preparing not only for your future but also to meet needs and give generously later.
✝️ Faith in Finance Stewardship isn't about accumulating wealth for its own sake. It's about being faithful with what God has entrusted to you—allowing you to care for your family, bless others, and have the freedom to respond when God calls. Even a small investment today can become a spiritual tool in the future.
What’s an Index Fund—and Why Does It Matter?
For those looking to follow the broader market, many investors track the S&P 500—an index comprised of 500 of the largest U.S. companies. This includes well-known brands such as Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and others that significantly impact the American economy.
Funds such as SPY or VOO are examples of index funds that replicate the performance of the S&P 500. They are popular because they provide:
- Broad market exposure
- Low fees
- Long-term stability (historically speaking)
You’re not relying on a single stock to rise. You’re merely participating in the overall growth of the economy over time.
Other types of index funds track various segments of the market, including mid-sized companies (mid-cap), smaller companies (small-cap), and even international businesses. We will explore these in a future article; however, when you’re just getting started, a broad S&P 500 fund is a simple and solid place to begin learning.
Getting Started Is Easier Than Ever
You don’t need a broker, a degree in finance, or a large account balance to get started. Many apps and brokerages allow you to begin investing with no minimum—Fidelity, Vanguard, Schwab, and others make it easy to automate small monthly contributions. Some platforms even enable you to invest your spare change.
Set it, forget it, grow it.
Final Thought: Begin with small steps. Aspire for greatness. Stay consistent.
You don’t need a windfall; you need faith, patience, and consistency. Investing $25 a month may seem like planting a seed in dry ground, but with time and care, it will grow into a tree—one that provides shade, shelter, and fruit not just for you, but also for your family and community.
In a world obsessed with instant results, this kind of steady growth is nothing short of revolutionary.
Credits
OpenAI helped create my article outlines and generate the imagery. Grammarly fixed my writing errors and Quillbot makes everything better.