Are You Intimidated by a Budget

Are you intimidated by a budget?

If the word “budget” intimidates you, you need to think of it in a new light. It’s simply a tool to prevent overspending and prepare you for emergency expenses. It’s not meant to restrict your spending or cause you major discomfort. It’s a plan that will ultimately give you the freedom to spend wisely. The key is learning to abide by it one day at a time.

Getting started can be hard, so you have to exercise faith. Each day’s victories will motivate you to make your budget foundational to your financial health. So, here’s how to begin. First, track your spending for one month. Just one. Write down every penny you spend, or download an app that tracks it for you. If you’re married, do this together every day for one month. Then, look at your spending and divide it into categories. Your bank and credit card statements will help. Closely analyze your expenses to make sure of one important thing: that they are less than your income.

A winning budget requires time to review income and spending. This allows you to create a plan that fluctuates with your circumstances. Study it well and note where you can cut spending. Adjust it, press on, and don’t give up. You’ll improve, gain confidence, and come to appreciate your budget! Remember that perseverance builds character, and character builds hope! A budget is your friend. It will help you wisely manage all that God gives you.

I want to personally invite you to join us in Knoxville, Tennessee, September the 10th through the 12th, for our 50th anniversary. Long-time listeners, faithful stewards, and ministry partners, you’re all invited. Learn more at crown.org/50years.