“The plans of the diligent lead to profit…” (Proverbs 21:5 NIV).
Managing money is a big part of life. If you’re not trained to do it, it can make life really hard. Those who were taught money management skills by their parents will have an advantage in life.
Some people are naturally inclined to be “savers” rather than “spenders.” However, they may manage their money with an “Ebenezer Scrooge” grip, penny-pinching at every turn because they’re afraid of losing it.
Then there are others who are “spenders.” They spend their money as fast as they make it! They never think of saving because what is money for anyway? To spend!
No matter how much money you make, if you don’t know how to manage it in a healthy way, you’ll never have enough. If you’re a “spender,” you’ll come to the end of the month and think, I had a great paycheck this month, but where did it all go?
Or, if you’re an extreme “saver,” you’ll live a very frustrated life never spending anything, never enjoying the fruits of your labor because you’re afraid you’ll never have enough. You’re constantly thinking: What if the car breaks down? What if the water heater goes out? What if…?
God’s desire is that we manage our finances in such a way that we enjoy the fruit of our labors, but also have savings to pull from if we need it. That’s why we need a spending plan!
Take Away:
Creating a spending plan doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep it simple. Check online for free resources and downloadable budget forms. Or, check out our book, Family Finances, which includes a budget worksheet. Find something that works for you. Get started today!
