Control Debt, Control Spending, Optimizing Life, Saving

Avoid The Christmas Hangover – Spending, Debt, and Stress

Christmas is a holiday with many competing areas of focus. Some manage to stay focused on the Lord, but there are many distractions.

Some focus on family, but one can easily get caught up in a month long stress about the “perfect holiday” and “who is or is not coming” and “do we have the perfect gifts for everyone”, etc.

I have seen people who strive to genuinely follow Jesus yield a month of every year to stress associated with the Christmas holiday, and almost none of it is focused on actually celebrating Christ.

Others get lost in debt, convinced by marketing and our culture that to celebrate Christmas requires spending lots of money, often money they don’t have. For the record, even “good discounts” cost you money unless you were going to buy that item anyway. It costs even more if you buy other stuff along with the thing that was on sale. That is why the companies selling you things run the sales… to make money, not to save you money!

Often this debt creates stress that lasts for months after Christmas is over as the credit card bills roll in.

Rather than waiting for that after Christmas “hangover” to set in along with the credit card bills and extra 5 pounds you put on by eating too much… consider challenging some of the holiday cultural norms.

1. Cut Down Your Gift List

Buying gifts for everyone you know is not necessary. Instead of buying gifts out of obligation for many with whom you are not close, just make a point to be nice to them all year round. Treat them with kindness and sensitivity and they will know you care for them even if you do not give them a gift.

If they only like you when they receive a gift, then they are not really your friend anyway. If you are concerned that they will buy for you and you will not have something for them, just have a real conversation with them about managing your expenses and budget responsibly and encourage them not to give something to you.

If they are not close enough to you to have this conversation, then why are you even exchanging gifts with them? In some cases, it may be very important to someone close to you to exchange gifts… go ahead if you want to.

2. Set a Reasonable Budget

Contrary to advertising… you do not need to buy a car, a diamond, gold jewelry, expensive electronics, etc. for people just because it is Christmas. If you don’t show them that you love them throughout the year, you will not fool them with an expensive gift in December.

For those with whom you want to give or exchange presents, you can set a reasonable budget for each person and then stick to it. This helps you set your overall Christmas budget in a predictable instead of impulsive way.

3. Plan Ahead and Avoid Credit Card Debt

Once you decide who you will get gifts for and how much to spend, you have a good estimate for your budget planning. Now divide by 11 and start saving it each month starting in January and continuing through November. Inevitably you will still have surprise expenses in December from the season’s activities, so you don’t plan on taking money for gifts from that month’s budget.

4. Redirect the Spirit of Giving

You can even consider replacing your current gift exchange traditions with a donation to a charity or family in need… someone you can give to in God’s name with no hope of receiving a gift in return. You will spend less money and honor God more.

If you find yourself condemning me as “Grinch”… I do not mind. You are not alone, but you are in fact also not correct. If Christmas is all about giving and getting gifts as the centerpiece and focus, then it has nothing to do with Jesus Christ and is simply a pagan festival where people want to get a lot of expensive stuff from each other.

The alternative is to recognize that gifts are intended not as the focus, but as a means of showing those closest to us that we were thinking of them. That does not require spending lots of money, despite what our culture would have us believe.

Besides, you can  give gifts to those you love any time during the year… it does not have to be at Christmas.

Dispelling Misconceptions about Gift-Giving and Examining Biblical Truths

Many tell us that giving gifts is a tradition originated to honor God’s gift to us in the birth of Jesus Christ or because of the acts of the real man who came to be known as Saint Nicholas. Though many give with this in mind, the fact is that this is not the accurate origin of gift exchange. In fact, gift giving to children in late December did not start with Christian origins, but rather as part of a pagan celebration of the sun god, Saturnalia, in ancient Rome. It is easy to research for yourself… even in Christian history encyclopedias such as by Zondervan.

Let’s explore the gift giving tradition further and test if it is even consistent with celebrating Jesus’ birth according to the principles of the Biblical record of that glorious event. Does this tradition point to or honor God, or is it just a tradition of men and a potential distraction from God?

Mary and Joseph did not get gifts for one another or even for Jesus and they knew who He was and that He would be born soon.

The shepherds came to celebrate and honor God. They did what they were commanded by God to do… which did not involve bringing gifts.

The wise men did not even come when Jesus was born… contrary to common tradition.  Scripture tells us they came and found Jesus in a house, not a manger. Herod killed all the male children two years and younger… not a week and younger, or even a few months and younger. It was likely they arrived over a year after Jesus was born. When they did come, they brought gifts to honor God. They did not exchange gifts with each other, nor did they expect to receive gifts in return from Joseph and Mary.

I should not fail to mention that God came down as Jesus to die for us and while this is a great gift, He expects no gift from us in return.

So if you really want to focus on giving gifts to honor Christian traditions… give in a way that honors God to those who will not be able to give anything in return. You will honor God more, find more joy and peace instead of stress, and spend less.

Wrapping up

If suggestion number 4 seems overwhelming… start with suggestions number 1-3. The less focus you put on gift exchange, the more focus you will find is available to consider God’s gift to us in the person of Jesus Christ. You will have more time and less stress to enjoy the holidays and hopefully you will not have the Christmas “hangover” in January.

Yours in Christ,

John

Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Plan Carefully and Seek Wise Advice

Pursuing Financial Advice: Whose Counsel Can You Trust?

Have you ever felt overwhelmed when it comes to major financial decisions? Have you felt that anxiety start to creep in on you because you are not sure what to do or who you can trust to help you?

Seeking financial advice is a crucial aspect of managing our resources wisely, yet pitfalls abound for the unwary. Here are three common traps associated with seeking advice:

  1. Self-Reliance: Some individuals solely depend on their judgment, neglecting the importance of seeking external wisdom and conducting thorough research.
  2. Friends and Family: While advice from loved ones may be well-intentioned, it’s imperative to verify and validate such counsel to ensure its financial wisdom. They may mean well, but not be as knowledgeable as they let on.
  3. Professional Advisors: Not all professionals are created equal. While some genuinely aim to assist, others may prioritize their interests. It is crucial to evaluate their motives, fee structures, and incentives.

Proverbs 21:5 reminds us that diligent planning leads to prosperity, emphasizing the importance of thorough research before making financial decisions.

Proverbs 15:22 advises seeking counsel from many sources, highlighting the value of consulting various perspectives to ensure well-rounded advice.

2 Timothy 3:1-5 warns about challenging times when some may prioritize self-interest over genuine assistance. Discernment is crucial in identifying those who may appear helpful but lack true integrity.

Navigating financial advice requires discernment and verification. Some pitfalls include professionals with conflicting interests. For instance, fee structures tied to account openings may hinder ongoing support, as the incentive for assistance diminishes post-payment.

Another potential issue arises when financial advisors recommend products with lucrative incentives for them but may not align with the client’s best interests. Seeking advice from multiple sources and conducting personal research can prevent unnecessary risks.

Proverbs 3:5-8 provides a timeless guide: Trust in the Lord, acknowledge Him in all aspects of life, and He will guide your paths. Combining careful study of God’s word with obedience and consistent prayer brings peace and assurance in financial decisions.

In conclusion, while trustworthy financial advice is essential, navigating the landscape requires discernment, diligence, and reliance on God’s wisdom. By avoiding shortcuts and seeking counsel from multiple sources, you can make informed decisions that align with your financial goals and values.

Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.

Have you encountered challenges in seeking financial advice, or do you have insights to share?

Your experiences can be a valuable compass for others navigating similar waters.

Don’t hesitate to comment or share this article to start a conversation and help others on their financial journey.

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Greed, Optimizing Life

Traversing Life’s Banquet: A Proverbial Feast of Wisdom 🔍

In life’s grand banquet, not everyone offering a seat at their table is to be taken at face value. Some extend invitations with a smile while harboring hidden resentments. As we navigate this complex social feast, Proverbs 23 serves as a profound guide, offering insights into discerning conduct, financial prudence, and the pursuit of godly wisdom.

Key Lessons from Proverbs 23:

  1. Dining with Discernment:
    • Before sitting at the table of influence, carefully consider what is before you. Proverbs 23:1 urges us to approach relationships and engagements thoughtfully, recognizing that not every offered delicacy comes with pure intentions.
  2. The Illusion of Wealth:
    • The pursuit of wealth can be deceptive. Verse 4 advises against wearying oneself solely for material gain. The transience of wealth is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of a balanced perspective on financial pursuits.
  3. Guarding Against Selfishness:
    • In the company of those whose hearts are not aligned with generosity, exercise caution. Verse 6 warns against partaking in the offerings of a selfish individual whose outward hospitality may mask inner motives. Genuine intentions should accompany shared meals.
  4. Discipline and Wisdom:
    • The passage underscores the value of discipline and the pursuit of wisdom. Applying one’s heart to discipline and ears to words of knowledge (verse 12) sets the foundation for a wise and discerning life.
  5. Living in the Fear of the LORD:
    • Proverbs 23:17 emphasizes the importance of living in the fear of the LORD. This reverence shapes our conduct and decisions, guiding us away from envy and towards a future anchored in hope.
  6. Avoiding Excess:
    • Caution against indulgence is prevalent throughout the chapter, from advising moderation in wine and food consumption (verses 20-21) to highlighting the consequences of lingering too long over excess (verse 30).
  7. The Value of Truth and Wisdom:
    • The chapter concludes with a powerful call to acquire truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding. This pursuit, likened to buying precious commodities, is a lifelong investment that brings joy to parents and, ultimately, to the individual.

Practical Application: Navigating Life’s Banquet

  1. Discernment in Relationships:
    • Thoughtfully assess relationships, ensuring alignment with values and intentions. Not everyone extending an invitation has pure motives.
  2. Financial Prudence:
    • Be cautious of the deceptive allure of wealth. Weigh the true cost of pursuing material gain and seek a balanced perspective on financial pursuits.
  3. Generosity Over Selfishness:
    • Choose companionship marked by genuine generosity. Avoid partaking in the offerings of those whose hearts are not aligned with selflessness.
  4. Commitment to Discipline and Wisdom:
    • Embrace discipline and actively seek wisdom. Apply your heart to continuous learning and align your life with godly principles.
  5. Living in Reverence:
    • Foster a life anchored in the fear of the LORD. Let this reverence guide your decisions, leading away from envy and towards a future filled with hope.
  6. Moderation and Avoiding Excess:
    • Exercise moderation in all aspects of life, from consumption to indulgence. Steer clear of the pitfalls associated with excessive behaviors.
  7. Investing in Truth and Wisdom:
    • Recognize the value of truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding. Make a deliberate investment in acquiring these precious commodities for a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

Closing Reflections: A Life Aligned with Wisdom

As we navigate life’s banquet, let Proverbs 23 be a compass guiding us through the intricacies of relationships, financial decisions, and the pursuit of wisdom. Seeking God’s counsel in every aspect of our lives ensures that our actions align with His principles. In claiming to follow Christ, let our lives be a harmonious testimony to His teachings, illuminating the path for others to discover the grace and wisdom found in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 🌟📖🍽️

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Control Spending, Stewardship

Navigating Budget Leaks: Benjamin Franklin’s Wisdom 🚢

In the vast sea of budgeting, it’s easy to dismiss the significance of small expenses, letting them slip through the financial cracks. Many of us nonchalantly spend $5-10 here and there without considering the cumulative impact. However, at the end of the month, the revelation of these seemingly inconspicuous expenses can be surprising.

Let’s take a simple example: grabbing a $5-10 meal for breakfast and lunch each weekday. That seemingly modest routine can quickly swell to over $200-400/month, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Benjamin Franklin once shared a timeless piece of wisdom that vividly illustrates this financial phenomenon:

“Beware of little expenses. A small leak will sink a great ship.”

Just as a small leak in a boat can spell disaster for even the mightiest ship, those seemingly insignificant expenses have the potential to sink a budget. While it’s prudent to initially focus on trimming the sails of larger expenditures, it’s equally crucial to scan the financial horizon for where these smaller, consistent leaks may be occurring.

Navigating the Financial Seas: Tools and Techniques

Consider using financial management tools like Quicken to diligently track these small expenses. Monthly reflections can reveal surprising patterns and highlight areas where seemingly trivial habits are creating budgetary holes. If using software feels too intricate, a simple review of credit card statements, categorizing and totaling those minor expenses, can provide a clear snapshot of spending habits.

🔍 Patching the Holes: A Call to Action

  1. Awareness is Key:
    • Acknowledge that small leaks can have a significant impact on your budget. Awareness is the first step towards effective financial management.
  2. Track and Analyze:
    • Use tools or manual methods to track small expenses. Whether it’s your morning coffee or a quick snack, documenting these expenditures can shed light on areas for improvement.
  3. Review and Adjust:
    • Regularly review your spending patterns. Identify categories where small expenses accumulate and assess whether adjustments can be made without sacrificing lifestyle quality.
  4. Embrace Change:
    • Small changes in spending habits can yield substantial results. Consider brewing coffee at home, bringing lunch to work, or exploring cost-effective alternatives without compromising enjoyment.

⚓ Safeguarding Your Financial Ship:

Just as a vigilant captain addresses potential leaks to keep their ship afloat, proactively managing small expenses is integral to financial stability. Let Benjamin Franklin’s wisdom serve as a compass, guiding you through the vast seas of budgeting. As you navigate, patch those holes, and ensure your financial ship sails smoothly towards your desired destination. ⚓💰

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Control Debt, Control Spending, Optimizing Life, Saving, Stewardship

Smart Spending: Prioritize the Big, Save Big

Hey savvy savers! 💰✨ When it comes to cutting expenses, it’s not just about clipping coupons or switching to generic brands. Dive into the bigger picture by focusing on major expense categories first.

This approach, known as Pareto analysis, ensures you tackle the areas with the most significant impact on your budget.

🔍 Message: Begin by identifying your major expenses—housing, transportation, and long-term commitments. Remember, owning assets means not just their cost but also maintenance expenses.

Pare down your list, organizing from largest to smallest, and prioritize slashing costs in the bigger categories. Don’t ignore the small expenses, but don’t let them distract you from significant savings in larger areas.

The key is distinguishing between wants and needs. Set your budget based on income and long-term objectives before deciding what you can afford. Avoid the common pitfall of starting with pricey desires and then fitting them into your budget.

💰 Financial Wisdom: Say no to debt! Saving up for significant purchases like a house or car requires discipline and long-term planning, but it saves you a ton in the end. Patience and contentment are virtues that pay off. This goes for credit card debt too—avoid it like the plague. Remember, all you have belongs to God; manage your money His way.

Here are several common areas where families in the USA tend to have high spending:

Housing Costs:

    • Rent or Mortgage: Housing is often the most significant expense for families. Monthly rent or mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners’ association fees, and maintenance costs can add up quickly.

Transportation:

    • Car Payments: Many families have car payments, and with the desire for newer models and additional vehicles, transportation costs can become substantial.
    • Fuel and Maintenance: Beyond the car payment, fuel, insurance, regular maintenance, and unexpected repairs contribute to high transportation expenses.

Healthcare:

      • Insurance Premiums: Health insurance premiums, whether through an employer or independently, can be a major monthly expense.
      • Out-of-Pocket Costs: Co-pays, deductibles, and expenses not covered by insurance can quickly accumulate, especially for families with frequent healthcare needs. 

Education:

        • Tuition and School Fees: For families with children, private school tuition or higher education costs can be a significant financial burden.
        • Education-Related Expenses: Books, school supplies, extracurricular activities, and other education-related costs contribute to the overall spending.

Debt Payments:

    • Credit Card Debt: Families may accumulate credit card debt, and high-interest rates can result in substantial monthly payments.
    • Student Loans: For those who pursued higher education, student loan repayments can be a long-term financial commitment.

It’s important for families to carefully assess these areas and create a budget that allows for necessary expenses while also planning for savings and unexpected costs.

⚖️ Call to Action: Challenge yourself to reevaluate your expenses. Distinguish wants from needs, prioritize the big-ticket items, and resist the allure of debt.

Share your tips and insights in the comments to inspire others on their journey to financial freedom.

💻 Resource: Explore more about managing money God’s way at GrowGodsMoney.org. Let’s cultivate financial wisdom together!

#SmartSpending #BudgetWisdom #FinancialFreedom #ParetoPrinciples

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Optimizing Life, Thankfulness

Gratitude Unbound: A Psalm of Thanksgiving

Step into the melodic verses of Psalm 138, where the psalmist crafts a symphony of gratitude and unwavering confidence in the Almighty. As we traverse these soul-stirring words, let’s explore the power of thanksgiving and the assurance that comes from placing our trust in God, irrespective of our financial position.

Psalms 138

Thanksgiving for the LORD’S Favor.

A Psalm of David.

     1I will give You thanks with all my heart;
I will sing praises to You before the gods.

      2I will bow down toward Your holy temple
And give thanks to Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth;
For You have magnified Your word according to all Your name.

      3On the day I called, You answered me;
You made me bold with strength in my soul.

      4All the kings of the earth will give thanks to You, O LORD,
When they have heard the words of Your mouth.

      5And they will sing of the ways of the LORD,
For great is the glory of the LORD.

      6For though the LORD is exalted,
Yet He regards the lowly,
But the haughty He knows from afar.

      7Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me;
You will stretch forth Your hand against the wrath of my enemies,
And Your right hand will save me.

      8The LORD will accomplish what concerns me;
Your lovingkindness, O LORD, is everlasting;
Do not forsake the works of Your hands.

Gratitude in All Financial Landscapes:

As we traverse the Psalm 138, let’s recognize the profound message it carries for our diverse financial positions. Whether we find ourselves on the peaks of prosperity or navigating the valleys of modest means, the heart of the psalmist resonates with timeless gratitude.

1. Thankfulness Beyond Wealth:

  • Gratitude isn’t exclusive to financial abundance; it’s a melody that echoes through the humblest of financial circumstances. The psalmist’s words remind us that thanksgiving is a timeless attitude, transcending the size of our bank accounts.

2. Confidence in Provision:

  • Regardless of our financial stature, Psalm 138 encourages us to find confidence in God’s provision. It’s not about the quantity of wealth but the unwavering assurance that our needs are seen, known, and met by a gracious Provider.

3. A Symphony of Contentment:

  • The exaltation of the Lord in this psalm isn’t dependent on opulence. Instead, it underscores the transformative power of centering our hearts on gratitude, finding contentment in the recognition of God’s provision, no matter the scale.

4. Assurance Amidst Financial Challenges:

  • In the face of financial troubles, Psalm 138 offers a profound assurance. It’s a declaration that even in economic challenges, we can find revival, resilience, and salvation in the unfailing hand of the Lord.

Reflecting on Financial Gratitude:

Let Psalm 138 inspire a symphony of gratitude in your life. Take a moment to consider the richness of thanksgiving, not just when the coffers overflow, but especially when navigating the more modest landscapes.

💬 Join the Conversation: Share your reflections on gratitude for God’s provision by commenting below.

How do you cultivate thankfulness in your financial journey, no matter the peaks or valleys?

Let’s harmonize our hearts in gratitude and inspire one another.

As we navigate Psalm 138, may our hearts resonate with gratitude, confident in the enduring provision of our faithful Provider. 🎶💰

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Optimizing Life, Treasures In Heaven

Life’s Brevity, Eternal Focus: What Truly Matters

As we immerse ourselves in our daily routines and accomplishments, let’s pause to consider the wisdom in prioritizing eternal significance over temporal success.

In the hustle and bustle of our earthly lives, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture—our lives on this earth are but a fleeting moment in the grand scope of eternity.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the eternal impact we can have by helping others find Christ and by focusing our decisions to pursue the things of God, shifting our focus from worldly pursuits to heavenly priorities.

📖 Psalm 39, penned by David, serves as a poignant reminder of life’s brevity. “Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be,” he implores, recognizing the fleeting nature of our existence. In a world where we heap up wealth without knowing who will spend it, where our busy rushing often ends in nothing, the psalmist anchors his hope in the Lord.

In the midst of life’s turmoil and the constant pursuit of more, let’s be intentional about seeking contentment and balancing our pursuit of money with God’s call for how we should live. The psalmist echoes this sentiment in verse 7, “And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you.”

Psalm 39

For Jeduthun, the choir director: A psalm of David.

1I said to myself, “I will watch what I do

and not sin in what I say.

I will hold my tongue

when the ungodly are around me.”

2But as I stood there in silence—

not even speaking of good things—

the turmoil within me grew worse.

3The more I thought about it,

the hotter I got,

igniting a fire of words:

4“Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be.

Remind me that my days are numbered—

how fleeting my life is.

5You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand.

My entire lifetime is just a moment to you;

at best, each of us is but a breath.”

Interlude

6We are merely moving shadows,

and all our busy rushing ends in nothing.

We heap up wealth,

not knowing who will spend it.

7And so, Lord, where do I put my hope?

My only hope is in you.

8Rescue me from my rebellion.

Do not let fools mock me.

9I am silent before you; I won’t say a word,

for my punishment is from you.

10But please stop striking me!

I am exhausted by the blows from your hand.

11When you discipline us for our sins,

you consume like a moth what is precious to us.

Each of us is but a breath.

Interlude

12Hear my prayer, O Lord!

Listen to my cries for help!

Don’t ignore my tears.

For I am your guest—

a traveler passing through,

as my ancestors were before me.

13Leave me alone so I can smile again

before I am gone and exist no more.

🙏 Take a moment to prayerfully consider your priorities. Reflect on how you spend your time, energy, money, and talent. Is the majority dedicated to honoring God and furthering His kingdom, or is it invested in building your own through work or family? Are you standing firm on God’s unchanging values, or are you swayed by the ever-shifting opinions of the world?

💡Share your reflections in the comments. Let’s encourage each other to align our lives with the eternal priorities that truly matter.

Tag someone who may benefit from this reminder and let’s embark on this journey together!

⚓  As we navigate life’s brief moments, may we not delay in submitting to and obeying God. The only things that will truly matter at the end of our lives are whether we personally submitted to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and the impact we had in furthering God’s kingdom on earth. Let’s make every moment count!

#EternalSignificance #KingdomLiving #PrioritiesInChrist #HeavenlyPerspective

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Control Spending, Optimizing Life, Stewardship, Treasures In Heaven

Stewardship: A Divine Perspective on Finances

Hey everyone! 💰✨ We all understand the importance of responsible resource management. We wouldn’t hand over our checkbooks without a second thought, expecting others to spend without aligning with our values and purposes. So, why do we sometimes struggle to grasp that God cares deeply about how we handle the resources He entrusts to us?

💡Just like we manage our businesses and families with purpose, God desires us to steward His blessings in a way that aligns with His will. Let’s dive into the divine perspective on finances.

💼 Whether it’s a company or a family, limited resources require careful management. We appreciate those who use resources wisely and correct those who do not. Consider your own checkbook – would you hand it over without caring how it’s spent? God cares about how we manage all aspects of our lives, including our finances.

God’s ownership of everything is emphasized in Psalm 24:1, stating, “The earth is the LORD’S, and all it contains, The world, and those who dwell in it.” Just as a business owner entrusts their possessions to employees, God entrusts us with His resources, expecting us to steward them faithfully.

In Luke 20:21-25, Jesus reminds us to render to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s. Our financial decisions are a reflection of our submission to God’s authority. In Proverbs 3:9-10 and Malachi 3:10, we’re encouraged to honor God with our wealth and tithes, experiencing blessings when we do.

The parable of the talents in Matthew 25 reinforces the importance of faithful stewardship. The master rewards those who use their talents wisely and rebukes the one who hides his. It’s a powerful reminder that God expects us to invest, not hoard, the resources He provides.

💬 Friends, have you submitted all your finances to be stewarded on behalf of God, or are you holding back for personal purposes? Let’s discuss in the comments.

Share your experiences and reflections on managing your resources to further the kingdom of God.

🌱 Invitation: Take a moment to reflect on your financial decisions. Are they aligned with God’s principles? Share your insights and tag someone who could benefit from this divine perspective on stewardship.

Let’s encourage each other on this journey of responsible and purposeful financial management!

#DivineStewardship #FaithfulFinances #GodsResources #KingdomBuildingWealth

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Generate Income, Investing, Optimizing Life, Stewardship, Taxes

Vote Wisely: This Decision Could Impact Your Income By 10-20% Or More

What if I told you that a single decision could impact all of your earning potential, savings, and investing by 10-20% or more? A wrong decision moves toward reducing your income, and a good decision moves toward increasing your income. You would immediately want to know what it was and how to learn more about it.

In the United States of America, we have the honor of voting in elections to select who takes many of our public offices at the local, state, and national levels. Elections have consequences and voting matters… a lot!

Our country was founded by Christians who were seeking freedom to worship God freely and Biblically, out from under any tyrannical rule of a king. Freedom was important… and so often not truly achieved.

It is very important to understand that the USA was not founded as a democracy, in which a majority of people can vote for whatever they want, including taking the wealth and possessions of the minority. Instead, God guided our founding fathers to establish a wonderful form of government known as a constitutional republic.

We do in fact participate in voting to elect representatives to the national government, but just as important is the US Constitution, which is in place to limit the power of the national government. The intent was to have a small national government doing the bare minimum (such as providing for the common defense… that’s the military) and not getting involved in impinging on the freedom of the states and the people.

Now we have a huge, stifling, mass of national government bureaucracy that tells us even how much water our toilet can flush and what kind of light bulbs we must use or cannot use.  We have fallen a long way and given up much freedom. The Constitution is constantly under attack from those who wish to redefine it and consider it a “living document”, which means essentially… “as long as we can get judges to say it means something else, then it does”. This approach is wrong.  The founders put in place a management of change process for the Constitution… and it is not simply getting people in black robes to say it means something else today than it did a few hundred years ago. It is called constitutional amendments. The process has been used many times, but not recently. The Constitution means what it says until we follow the process to change it. That is the only way to protect the individual rights of the people and the founding fathers knew it! It is supposed to be hard to change!

Not only does the national government continue to grow and impinge on personal liberty, but it continues to spend money it does not have at an increasingly alarming rate… on things it should not be involved in managing and does not manage well. To pay for this, the national government always says we need to spend more money on more government programs and raise taxes or go so far into debt we will never get out. Even if they print enough money to pay off the debt, the money we have will fall in value because of the extra money printed. Our purchasing power plummets! If a business was run this way, the same government would probably throw the business leader in jail.

America was founded as a land of opportunity! Those who work hard can improve their family’s standard of living over multiple generations or sometimes even in a single generation. This is harder and harder to do as the government gets bigger and taxes more and puts in place more regulations and more burdens like healthcare programs for which they have no constitutional authority, despite what a ruling of the Supreme Court may say.

Elections have consequences.   It all ends up affecting your ability to earn income with liberty, to keep what you earned rather than giving it to a government to waste, to save and invest freely and rely on God and the talents He gave you rather than relying always on the national government.

For those who want to get everything for free with someone else’s money… there is not enough of “someone else’s money” to pay for everything you want you will always be beholden to the national government to get by. You basically make yourself a voluntary dependent (e.g. like a child) of the government. On the other hand, many of us want to keep our freedom and the fruits of our labor. We want a small national government and a return to the protection of our personal liberty provided by the US Constitution. We trust in God and ourselves to work hard and get ahead. If we fail, we own it, and we get back up and try again. We don’t expect someone else to always pay our bills or cover our mistakes. We are accountable to God for how we use what He has given us in this life, whether time, talent, or treasure.

I encourage active participation in elections, not only by voting but also by influencing those around you. Research the truth. Do not trust what politicians say, but rather judge by the fruit of their lives as the Bible instructs us. Do not be lazy and believe what TV network news shows tell you, for they are decidedly leaning toward big national government and less individual freedom. The same is true for most social media sites today. Instead, seek out the truth diligently on the internet. Search out confirmation from multiple time-tested, reliable news sources. (You can’t trust everyone’s blog, either.) We are to test everything and discern truth from lies. If someone is constantly changing positions when it suits them, then you know they have no principle. They are political chameleons, and you cannot trust them except to look out for their own best interests. If they are honest but their plans will bankrupt our country worse than today… you may be able to trust them, but you are voting for disaster and loss of freedom. Look for those whose past actions and accomplishments line up with what they say and line up with what God’s word says. Seek those who strongly support the protection of individual rights provided by the Constitution… for ultimately it is your rights they protect!

How much harder it is to manage your personal finances when the government always takes more and more from what you earn, what you spend, what you invest, and even what you own when you die! What good is it to earn and save and invest if the government can just come and take what they want from whom they want?

Elections have consequences. Get involved today and don’t stop trying to influence your elected officials once they get into office. Remain engaged!

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

Ethics, Optimizing Life, Treasures In Heaven

A Biblical Approach to Jealousy Around Financial Success

Hey friends! 👋✨ Have you ever felt the sting of jealousy or faced adversity when things started going well in your life? It’s not a new phenomenon, and the Bible has some profound wisdom on how to handle such situations, especially in the realm of personal and business finances.

In Genesis 26:12-25 (included at the end of the article), we find Isaac, a man blessed by God, facing jealousy and hostility for his prosperity. But instead of retaliating, Isaac’s journey holds valuable lessons for us on managing success and financial blessings with grace.

Human nature hasn’t changed over the centuries. When God blesses us, jealousy may stir up adversity. Isaac’s story teaches us that fools may harm us out of envy, but the wise seek to understand and replicate our success.

Isaac, despite facing adversity, respected authority, and relocated peacefully. He encountered challenges when digging wells, yet he avoided conflict and found open space to flourish. Rather than complaining about hostility, he thanked God for providing room for him.

Isaac’s response to adversity was not violent; he sought peaceful solutions, giving glory to God. His example reminds us that while there are times for fighting (as Abraham showed), there are also moments when a peaceful response is the best way forward. Isaac’s posture wasn’t that of a conqueror, despite his wealth, demonstrating the power of seeking peaceful solutions.

Friends, let’s reflect on Isaac’s approach. In managing our personal and business finances, let’s seek God’s wisdom.

Share your thoughts in the comments about how you’ve navigated financial blessings or adversities in your life and share this post with someone who might find it helpful.

Let’s encourage one another on this journey of applying God’s word to our finances! 🌱💰

#BiblicalFinances #ProsperityWithGrace #WisdomInWealth #FaithAndFinances

Genesis 26:12-25 records that Isaac was living in Philistine land. Jealousy of others toward the success of Isaac (due to God’s blessing) drives conflict which ultimately leads to Isaac’s departure from the area.

12 When Isaac planted his crops that year, he harvested a hundred times more grain than he planted, for the Lord blessed him. 13 He became a very rich man, and his wealth continued to grow. 14 He acquired so many flocks of sheep and goats, herds of cattle, and servants that the Philistines became jealous of him. 15 So the Philistines filled up all of Isaac’s wells with dirt. These were the wells that had been dug by the servants of his father, Abraham.

16 Finally, Abimelech ordered Isaac to leave the country. “Go somewhere else,” he said, “for you have become too powerful for us.”

17 So Isaac moved away to the Gerar Valley, where he set up their tents and settled down. 18 He reopened the wells his father had dug, which the Philistines had filled in after Abraham’s death. Isaac also restored the names Abraham had given them.

19 Isaac’s servants also dug in the Gerar Valley and discovered a well of fresh water. 20 But then the shepherds from Gerar came and claimed the spring. “This is our water,” they said, and they argued over it with Isaac’s herdsmen. So Isaac named the well Esek (which means “argument”). 21 Isaac’s men then dug another well, but again there was a dispute over it. So Isaac named it Sitnah (which means “hostility”). 22 Abandoning that one, Isaac moved on and dug another well. This time there was no dispute over it, so Isaac named the place Rehoboth (which means “open space”), for he said, “At last the Lord has created enough space for us to prosper in this land.”

23 From there Isaac moved to Beersheba, 24 where the Lord appeared to him on the night of his arrival. “I am the God of your father, Abraham,” he said. “Do not be afraid, for I am with you and will bless you. I will multiply your descendants, and they will become a great nation. I will do this because of my promise to Abraham, my servant.” 25 Then Isaac built an altar there and worshiped the Lord. He set up his camp at that place, and his servants dug another well.

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Remember that all you have belongs to God. Manage your money God’s way and use it for His glory rather than your own. Visit GrowGodsMoney.org .

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