Financial advice has become as essential as spiritual advice during the recession for over half of Christians (52 per cent) polled by Premier Radio.

The radio's CEO, Rev Peter Kerridge, has described the results as "a sensible step toward a stable financial climate."

"Biblically based, expert financial advice should be something all Christians consider," Kerridge commented.

"We are not condoning replacing spiritual advice with financial advice, we are simply stating that as Christians we should be focused on all aspects of our lives, not just the spiritual."

"These poll results suggest that Christians are coming around to the idea of seeking advice in all areas of their lives, including financial issues, which are a concern to many of us. We must see these results as a message of hope regarding the economic climate, not as a sign that spiritual advice is being devalued."

The poll results have been published shortly after the 2009 budget, which has drawn mixed opinions from Christian groups, many of whom support the government's initiative to curb unemployment in the under 25s but are concerned about the lack of discussion on climate change.

Christians who are concerned about their professional or private finances have been encouraged to contact Premier Response on 08456 52 52 52 to find a local Christian financial adviser.