Bad Spending Habits

Need some financial counsel?   Maybe you missed the advice of Bo Diddley who said, “Don’t let your mouth write no check that your tail can’t cash.”

Did you catch that?

Most of us have ignored a lot of wise counsel. American’s high personal debt and low savings are proof. We allow our “wants” to guide our wallets and the “needs” and “surprise expenses” to enslave us.

So, what causes financial stress? Primarily, bad spending habits as the result of a lack of knowledge, and little self-discipline. These habits lead to paycheck to paycheck living, no savings, credit card traps, and payday loans.

We also have to endure and be ready for the effects of job loss, reduced income, underemployment, weddings, divorce, medical expenses, funerals, deployments,  expensive hobbies, entertainment, gambling, no insurance, and natural disasters. Being unprepared for the expected – and unexpected – costs of living can lead to financial bondage.

Solomon said, “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!” We’re to earn money and prepare for the times ahead.

God told us to live simply and gratefully – which leads to contentment. We’re told in Hebrews,  “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” With that mindset we can escape financial stress, worry and bondage.

In order to save and give generously, you need to be debt-free. If you have credit card debt, get in touch with Christian Credit Counselors. They have a friendly and professional team that’s ready to help you pay off your credit cards the right way. Learn more at crown.org/ccc