Use A Budget – Part 2

Making a financial plan pays big rewards. 

Budgeting requires time to plan, time to write it out, then faithful implementation. You can adjust it as you gain new insight and as your financial picture changes. Choosing frugality upfront is less painful than having it forced on you later due to a lack of careful planning.  Tracking all spending for a month will help you allocate money to each category. Weekly budget analysis, monthly progress reports, and yearly goal resets will help you stay on track. Make it a time you look forward to. If you’re married, do this in a relaxed setting where you can focus. You may know a lot about money, but not what God says about it. Dedicate a night of the week to Biblical financial training. Feeding on his truth will renew your mind and give you a proper perspective on finances. You’ll learn to make wise decisions and find contentment in your circumstances. It’s also a great time to review your progress.

Here are some other guidelines for managing the money God has entrusted to you. Learn to practice patience and moderation in every financial decision. Have a positive attitude, even though temporary sacrifices may be required. Maintain your plans as long as you have peace about them. Your attitude in approaching investments can be the difference between a profit and a loss. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes, no matter how tempting. Beware of making decisions that require instant action. Ask God for wisdom, then patiently wait on His guidance. With God’s help, you’ll find joy in this journey.

And if you’re struggling with credit card debt, Christian Credit Counselors can really help. They know how to meet you right where you are and help with a plan. Learn more at crown.org/ccc