The Bible has plenty to say about money.

It offers practical advice from the scriptures on how to handle finances and encouragement to work hard, save for a rainy day, and give some away. While saving some of today’s income for tomorrow’s use takes discipline and in some instances sacrifice, it is a goal worth contemplating.

In these economic times particularly, it may be useful to see a profession financial planner to achieve one’s financial goals. The Bible also gives advice on this topic. “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed.” Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)

If one plans on leaving his or her children an inheritance, it doesn’t happen overnight. It comes through hard work, good planning and wise counsel. The gift of financial solvency throughout one’s lifetime so that heirs will not have to worry about final expenses, but instead receive an inheritance is a wonderful, Godly goal.

Approximately one-third of people in the U.S. have nothing saved for their retirement years according to recent polls. In fact, according to a survey of 1,003 adults conducted by Bankrate.com, a personal finance website, 14 percent of people ages 65 or over have absolutely no savings. While this statistic may be shocking, even the smallest savings plan can reap great benefits over a period of time.

Billy Hartfield, local financial advisor for Edward Jones, has been in the business for five years and has enjoyed helping people reach their financial goals.

Hartfield said, “To be honest the part of the job I enjoy most is the personal relationships I have developed over my time in Bogalusa.”

Hartfield attended the Mississippi School for Math in Science in Columbus, Miss., and enjoyed his time spent there. After completing this leg of his education, Hartfield studied chemical engineering at the University of Louisiana.

He recently won the firm’s Ted Jones Entrepreneurial Award for his exceptional achievement in building client relationships.

“It’s truly an honor to be recognized for building relationships with those clients we serve,” said Hartfield. “And it is also quite inspirational to receive an award named after a firm legend such as Ted Jones, who was so innovative and recognized the need for quality financial advice for long-term individual investors.”

Edward Jones is located at 400 Georgia Ave., Suite 14, and Hartfield invites anyone interested in learning more about financial planning and investments to call 985-735-8800 or stop by.

“A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.” Proverbs 13:22 (NIV)