Day 7: Commitment Challenge: The Financial Literacy Pledge

[22] But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. [23] For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. [24] You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.

-James 1:22-24 NLT

Prayerfully, you're motivated, excited, and dedicated to achieving new financial accomplishments this year! It would all be for naught, though, if you read all this and do nothing. Knowledge is only powerful when it’s applied. In other words, your financial breakthrough starts with a decision. Will you let this wisdom sit unused, or will you take the first step toward financial freedom today?

Take action. Here's our challenge to you:

• Read the "Financial Literacy Pledge" together as a family.
• Sign it and place it somewhere visible as a reminder of your commitment.
• Encourage children to create their own "Financial Promise" about how they’ll handle money wisely. Here's a simple example: “I, [insert name], promise to save a part of my money, spend wisely, and always think before I buy!” Encourage them to decorate it and put it in their room as a reminder.

Final Thought

We love Malachi 3:10-12 because it demonstrates God's loving, giving character. In layman’s terms, God says, “If you give Me a dime out of every dollar, I will bless and multiply the other $0.90!” The cool thing is that God’s blessings extend beyond finances—He promises to pour into every area of our lives when we are faithful stewards. We position ourselves to receive His full provision when we decide to commit to managing the nine-tenths well. As in Matthew 25:14-30, God wants to provide more resources to His “good stewards” who wisely and faithfully manage their Master's resources.

This financial pledge is simply an outward expression of your renewed perspective. You are committing to a refreshed mindset and desire to manage the nine-tenths that God has already blessed because of your faithful generosity. We pray the blessings of Numbers 6:24-26 NLT over you as you and your family make this pledge and implement the principles you learned this week.

May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.

The Financial Literacy Pledge

I, [insert your name], commit to building a strong financial future for myself, my family, and future generations. Furthermore, I pledge to discontinue digging a debt grave and will learn to destroy debt and accumulate wealth.

Beginning TODAY, I will make informed financial decisions while understanding the difference between wants and needs. I will be consciously aware of the effects of advertisements on my decision-making process and resolve not to be influenced by them.

I will focus on my financial health by tracking my expenses and creating a realistic budget. I will continue my education regarding personal debt, saving, investing, budgeting, and credit. I will be proactive in my planning for periodic expenses, including holidays. I will lead by example, teaching my children the importance of expense management, saving, budgeting, and the wise use of credit. I will no longer let fear and shame prevent me from talking about my financial well-being and seeking the necessary help to fix it.

From today forward, I take full responsibility for my financial choices and commit to making wise, informed decisions. I am, by signing below, stating my intention to not only abide by the terms of this contract but to re-read this document whenever I am tempted to make a poor or brash financial decision. This contract is valid only when signed by at least one witness and must be kept in a place where I can view it daily.

Enjoy your journey to financial freedom!

Visit https://www.4qfinancial.com/nine-tenth/ to find out more about “Nine Tenth: Church Folks’ Guide to Financial Discipline & Living Beyond Tithes & Offering” and for additional resources to help you along your financial journey.