Face it: most of us have limited resources. The paycheck goes only so far. When we spend money on frivolous items we may run the risk of shorting later on the necessities. Using a budget can allow you to prioritize both wants and needs. We want to make the most of our money for our families, right? Making the most of and doing the most good with what you have is called stewardship. God is very clear that He will supply our needs (Philp 4:19); however, He expects us to maximize what He gives us. We are to give back a portion to provide for the needs of others (1 Cor 16: 1&2 and Mal 3:8-12). We are to demonstrate responsibility with what He has given us (1 Cor 4:1-2 and Lk 16:10-13). Since our homemaking tasks are ultimately unto the Lord (Col 3:23-24), we should carefully consider using and sticking to a budget. Juggling the family budget can be quite a chore but worthy of our hard work. The natural payoff: more for our family. The supernatural payoff: God blesses our obedience. Even if our spouses or children do not appreciate or cooperate with bugeting, the Lord sees our effort (Heb 4:13) and rewards it (Prov 14:23).
Month: July 2009
Five Reasons To Live With Less
Stewardship Lessons From a Reformed Pack Rat
- More stuff equals more chaos. Clutter is visually distracting and physically stressful. It adds to sensory OVERLOAD. I don’t practice feng shui but common sense tells you one can’t relax in a crowded, unorganized mess.
- The more we have, the more we have to maintain what we have. It is a vicious cycle of time, energy and resources. We have to clean it, store it, fix it… TOO CONSUMING.
- Save money by not spending it on MORE STUFF. Start a Christmas Club account instead! Think of how much you’d have at the end of the year.
- Living with less frees us: less baggage emotionally and physically. Less stuff=more time & money=less guilt.
- If I save EVERYTHING, then NOTHING is special. Treasures are meant to be seen and enjoyed not packed away in the closet or attic. Trust me- your children will not want to be burdened with dealing with all your junk when you die.
- Bless others from your overabundance. Who really needs 48 pairs of shoes anyway? So many people could really benefit from things that are accumulated and never used in other more fortunates closets.
Oh Boy!
Oh Boy! Although I’ve used the internet quite a bit for research and shopping, up until a few months ago I had never even visited a blog site. Now, here I am writing my own! I’m not yet sure how this all works but I’ll learn. I’m not even sure anyone cares what I have to say, but…
I’d like to use this site to help other women with faith for everyday issues. I want to share what I’ve learned about applying biblical teachings to my daily life – especially being a wife and mother. Life’s not always easy and I appreciate those who’ve taken time to sow seeds in my life and I’d like to continue their good works. If you have kind comments, suggestions, or constructive criticism – please share it! If my site is not for you, move on – no hate mail, please!
Starting Monday, I’ll share more about myself and my goals for this site. See you soon and God bless you!
