MANAGING MONEY WISELY

Do you think that finances can be a real aggravation at times. Doesn’t it seem especially true these days with the ups and downs on Wall Street and the unemployment numbers growing? If you haven’t already surrendered your finances to God, now is the time to do so.

The subject of money and possessions is found in over 2,000 verses in the Bible. God makes the point of wanting us to handle money wisely. Jesus often spoke of being a good steward of the resources He entrusted to us. And He wants us to avoid making money an idol in our lives. Ecclesiastes 5:10 says: “ He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income.”

First, we can manage money wisely by practicing diversification. It’s also a biblical principal: “Divide your portion to seven, or even to eight, for you do not know what misfortune may occur on the earth.” (Ecclesiastes 11:2 NASB) There is no one perfect investment – bonds, real estate, stock market, precious metals; each can perform well or poorly, has it’s own advantages or disadvantages.

Secondly, pay attention to your financial investments. Don’t ignore your monthly statements, open them and review each. And not just quickly glancing at the bottom line. Solomon wrote “You should take good care of your sheep and goats, because wealth and honor don’t last forever. After the hay is cut and the new growth appears and the hevest is over, you can sell lambs and goats to buy clothes and land. From the milk of the goats, you can make enough cheese to feed your family and servants.” (Proverbs 27:23-27 CEV) This translates today to not take anything for granted and keep a good watch on your investments and your household finances in general. Don’t make careless mistakes, inviting more stress into your life.

Next, avoid taking on more debt. The stress from debt can induce health problems – from muscle tension and migraines, to severe depression. Proverbs 22:7 says "Just as the rich rule the poor so is the borrower servant to the lendee."

Money, and it’s use, can be a challenge to us. Maybe even a source of conflict. That’s why God has given us many basic principals to live by and incorporate into our lives.

We can lend insight to your home financing needs and personal financial situation. Call us at 913-642-3334 or email me at michele@wantinsight.com with questions or comments.