Savings Day – Health and Wealth
If you want to save and manage money God’s way, the first step may surprise you.
You may think that saving money starts with a budget or decreased spending. You’d be wrong! The Bible reveals that the battle to live as Godly stewards is won or lost in the heart, not the wallet! It’s the inner part of us which includes the mind, emotions and will. That battle happens long before we make a budget or analyze our spending. We must choose to follow God in every area of our lives, whatever the cost. It’s not always easy but it’s always worth it. Spending time with Him reading the Bible, in prayer, and with His church, will align our priorities with His.
In the book “How Now Shall We Live,” Chuck Colson and Nancy Pearcey emphasize the importance of discipleship of the mind. It impacts our heart. Idols of wealth and false security are all around us, but diligent training of the mind equips us to avoid snares and detect culture’s misplaced values. Jesus said to “…love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37) The Apostle Paul warned us to “…take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5) In a different letter, he said, “be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) Our thoughts impact our desires and decisions. Simply following a budget, getting out of debt, and saving won’t necessarily change your heart, but learning God’s principles and desiring to follow them most certainly will!
Now many couples struggle to save because of credit card debt. If you’re one of them, I recommend Christian Credit Counselors. They’ll create a debt management plan that works for you. For more information call the Crown Helpline: 800-722-1976 or visit online at crown.org/ccc.