Consider a Crisis Budget

Ever had a financial crisis? They happen!

Emergencies happen and they affect our finances. Last month, my wife’s 12-year-old van needed $1,400 of work.

That’s minor compared to replacing a car, a roof, the loss of a job, a physical injury, legal issues or debt problems.

When the unexpected happens, a crisis budget is crucial. It’s a temporary tool that helps you discern your needs vs. your wants so you can cover the essentials of rent or mortgage, utilities, food, gas and car payments, and insurance.

You temporarily cut unnecessary expenses like eating out, cable, hair and nail appointments, costly phone plans, new clothes and home furnishings, tickets for entertainment, and even convenience food.

We’re talking Crisis! Solomon said: the hand of the diligent makes rich!

A crisis budget requires due diligence!

It’s not a time to give up or blame others. It’s a time to rely on God.

It’s a time to be thankful for what you have and an opportunity to model your faith in Christ. It’s a time to humbly accept the help of others believing you can generously give back in days to come.

It’s an opportunity to teach your children to endure hardship with faith and joy.

Consider a practice run for a week or two and deposit the savings into an emergency fund. You may benefit so much you choose to do it longer!

Recruit a friend, couple or small group to try a crisis budget and see what happens!

James said: Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything

If credit card debt is a trial you’re currently facing, contact Christian Credit Counselors. They can help you lift the burden and live with freedom. To learn more, Call 800 722-1976 or visit Crown.org/ccc