Honor the Lord from your wealth and from the first of all your
produce; so your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats
will overflow with new wine.” – Proverbs 3:9-10
Did you know that financial matters are mentioned more often in the Bible than prayer, healing, and mercy?
Our country is going through very harsh economic times, and the state of the country’s finances has impacted each of us in one way or another. John 10:10 tells us,
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Financial difficulties can steal our peace, kill our potential for being all that God has called us to be, and destroy relationships. How can we have an “abundant life” if our finances hinder the plans that God has in store for us?
Over 70% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, and I have to admit that I am included in those percentages. So what are our choices to surviving the emotional stress caused by financial difficulties? How can we balance a life of peace with challenges of the world around us? Is there really a way to not only survive but be prosperous? The six steps below will give us a great start to finding hope, strength, and guidance in dealing with our financial issues.
Seeking Peace during Financial Difficulties:
1. Seek Him through prayer, scripture and thanksgiving
2. Tithe faithfully - even in challenging financial times
3. Set up a simple budget – it will help you determine where you are financially, where you want to be
4. Integrity and moral values – don’t let circumstances control your attitude or your choices
5. Do not covet – don’t want what is not yours, or something you can’t have (or afford)
6. Do your part – evaluate your overspending habits and look at where you can cut-back (unnecessary expenses, splurges)
What the Bible tells us:
The Bible warns that the pursuit of money can cause problems in one's faith and in other areas of life. Ecclesiastes 5:10 notes, "Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless."
In Matthew 6:24, Jesus says, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."
Peace can take the place of worry when we turn our burdens over to God.
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8)
“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19)
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers” (3 John 1:2)
“Know that the LORD has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the LORD hears when I call to him” (Psalm 4:3)
Financial Peace University:
Another valuable tool to developing financial success and stability is a program called
Financial Peace University. Radio talk show host,
Dave Ramsey, began teaching people how to get out of debt because he wanted them to avoid the financial mistakes he had made. One of the things Dave Ramsey says is:
“Normal is BROKE! So be weird!” and Financial Peace University will show you exactly how to do that; how to start eliminating debt so you’re free to do things you’ve always wanted to do!
In 13 action-packed lessons, we are given information that can change our lives. Each weekly session starts with Dave Ramsey teaching on video and is followed by a small group discussion, so we can learn together how to be faithful stewards of the financial resources we have been given. The classes break the process down into easy steps that will help no matter where you are. Here is an overview of each week's topic:
1.
Super Savings - 7 baby steps to get started and 3 key reasons to save
2.
Relating with Money - importance of teamwork & teaching kids about money
3.
Cash Flow Planning - developing a month spending plan
4.
Dumping Debt - common debt myths
5.
Credit Sharks in Suits - understanding credit scores & how to handle collectors
6.
Buyer Beware - power and influence of marketing
7.
Clause and Effect - insurance needs
8.
That’s Not Good Enough - secrets of buying big bargains
9.
Of Mice and Mutual Funds – investments
10.
From Fruition to Tuition - college planning & retirement options
11.
Working in Your Strengths - tips for job hunting, resume writing, interview techniques
12.
Real Estate and Mortgages - buying or selling your home
13.
The Great Misunderstanding - generous giving
To learn more about
Financial Peace University, find a class near you, or attend an online class -
https://fpuonline.daveramsey.com/
It’s Friday, Let’s Sparkle ... action required ... With the 9/11 Anniversary coming up on Sunday, there is still time to make a commitment to K-Love’s
“Million Lives Campaign” and encourage, serve and help someone this weekend. You can click here to check out K-Love’s challenge and make your commitment:
http://www.klove.com/ministry/make-a-difference.aspx
Go in Peace and Serve the Lord.
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver
“If there is to be any peace it will come through being,
not having.” – Henry Miller
