Do you feel burdened by money pressures? Is your cost of living going up while your income is shrinking? I've been there. There's hope! Living by these timeless financial principles will help turn things around in your heart as well as in your pocketbook.
11) It all belongs to God. In the beginning, there was nothing until God spoke and the universe came to be. Since he created everything, he created you. The Lord makes your heart pump and your lungs work, and he gives you strength and intelligence to do things like earn a living.
2) Since he owns it all, the things that you seem to own are actually only in your care. You are a steward of the resources he has entrusted you with. Your car is really his car, so don't resent it when you're asked to give someone a ride to church. Your home is really God's, so you ought to be hospitable and entertain people there for God's glory.
3) Giving is evidence that you believe financial principles (1) and (2). Throughout the Scriptures, God commended giving as a work of faith. The more you believe in his ownership, the easier it will be for you to give. The Lord has commanded that his followers do what they can to make disciples in all nations. If you aren't called to go, you ought to help send. And Jesus said that giving to the poor is in a sense giving to him. And your local church has financial needs that the members are responsible to provide for.
4) Always spend less money than you make. That means don't get into debt. If you're in debt now, there are probably several things you need to do to get out of debt, but the most important is to spend less money than you make. The best way to ensure that you follow this financial principle is to carefully follow a budget.
5) It will be easier to do financial principle (4) if you learn to be contented with and grateful for what you have. The advertising industry is always doing its best to fill us with lust for newer and bigger gadgets. By faith, keep your eyes on the better treasure you're laying up in Heaven as you obey financial principle (3).
6) There is wisdom in seeking counselors. There are various types of professional Christian financial counselors who can help you with any money matter from giving investment advice to help you plan a budget. If you have friends who successfully manage their finances, they can be a good source of wisdom. Of course, check everything you hear by the Word of God.
7) Above all, cultivate a habit of daily prayer that include praises and thanks to God for his blessing and provision, as well as petitions to God that he would guide you into wise financial decisions and provide for your needs.
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Lerin Roberts |
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