Debtless Sample

Give—Save—Spend Less Than You Make: I love what nationally known pastor, Andy Stanley, says about money: “Give 10%, Save 10%, Live on the rest.” That means for every hundred dollars you earn, you should give $10, save $10, and use the remaining 80% to pay for groceries, housing, transportation, and travel. This is a great starting point for anyone looking to get a handle on their finances. God's word shows us ultimately 3 things we really are instructed to do with money: 1. Giving. In living generous lives. In Mark 12, Jesus taught the importance of giving to Caesar what belongs to Caesar (taxes to the government), and to give to God what belongs to God (tithes to the church). Above and beyond those two things of taxes & tithes can be optional offerings. This is being a dream maker for others—it makes the world a better place. What are some causes you believe in? There is no limit to generosity! 2. Saving. Save for the future. Proverbs 21 teaches us that the wise save up for the future needs and desires for their families, yet the foolish people waste everything without even a thought of future. Wisely saving helps us to prepare for the unexpected emergency, go on a vacation, and live generously. 3. Spending less than we make. Follow a budget. Debt enters into the picture financially when we begin to extend ourselves financially beyond what we have for income. The bible is clear that the debtor/borrower is always a slave to the lender. Don’t allow debt to hold you back from your dream. Get creative. There are ways of paying for college and funding your dreams nobody has even thought of yet! The point is this: God is trustworthy of every area of your life, including your finances. Jesus changes every part of your life. Zaccheus used to rob people, then he met Jesus. His life was transformed. He repaid every debt above and beyond. The grace of God is the greatest demonstration of generosity there has ever been. Imagine today what your life could look like by applying what the Bible has to say about money! Prayer: Jesus, you are my provider! Thank you that all my days, you have provided for me, just like you did for your people with daily manna. I want to share with others. Create in me a generous and cheerful heart! I ask for grace and mercy to save for the future. Would you bless me with favor financially, great God in heaven?!