There are many traps that can lead us to fail in executing our personal financial strategy. One of the most common mistakes is to take our thoughts off of what we are trying to accomplish and focus instead on the obstacles in our way or get distracted focusing on what others have that we may want.
We can easily get distracted by lies and frustrations that are not productive focus for accomplishing our goals.
“If I only have a better car, bigger house, newer phone, etc. then I will be happy.”
“I deserve (or need) a better job, and more expensive clothes, etc.”
“I will save more in the future, when I am making more money.”
“I don’t have the job skills I need, so I can never accomplish my goals.”
“Others had an easier road than me. I am just not lucky enough.”
Scripture tells us to avoid the trap of coveting what others have and comparing ourselves to them.
17 “You must not covet your neighbor’s house. You must not covet your neighbor’s wife, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else that belongs to your neighbor.” [Exodus 20:17]
In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he gives additional guidance to help us.
8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. [Philippians 4:8]
This instruction applies broadly to all aspects of our lives and is certainly applicable to how we manage our finances. We do best when we focus on what is true and honorable and right. Instead of focusing on what others have or what we think we deserve or our frustrations over obstacles we face, we stay focused on our financial plan and working toward achieving our goals.
Set goals, steward progress, remain focused. Yes, be aware of obstacles enough to plan a way around them… but don’t focus on them as permanent blocks in your path. Instead of focusing on what you think others do not deserve, focus on what you need to do to be successful.
- Stay focused on and content with what God has provided.
- Focus on the plans you set to accomplish our goals, or on developing good plans.
- Steward progress toward those goals.
- Avoid distractions and traps that could lead you astray.
- Pray for God’ s help, praise Him as He works in your life, and give Him thanks!
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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .