On Sunday, Sept. 1, we began a church-wide study and worship emphasis called Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity. Over a period of five weeks, we are looking at some of the financial challenges facing us as a nation and examine our own spending, saving, and giving habits. In addition to exploring biblical principles of financial management, we will learn ways to assess our financial situation and develop a financial plan that will allow us to experience the true joy that comes through simplicity and generosity.
At the end of the emphasis, we will have the opportunity to make personal commitments of giving for the coming year. We will consecrate these commitments on Sunday, Sept. 29, and Sunday, Oct. 6.
Resources
In worship we looked closely at biblical principles of money management and learn how they apply to our daily lives. We reviewed some common pitfalls and cultural traps and discover how to avoid them. We also learned about the Six Key Financial Principles, which are summarized below. We hope you will take time this week to read these principles and Scriptures. They will make a great table devotional for you and your family. By practicing these biblical principles, all of us can find greater simplicity, contentment, generosity, and joy for our lives.
Put God first in your living and giving. (2 Corinthians 9:6-7) Give your tithe and offering from the “top” of your paycheck, and then live on whatever remains.
Prepare a spending plan and track monthly. (Proverbs 27:23-24) Creating a budget means developing a plan in which you tell your money what you want it to do. Tracking your expenses is like getting on the scales to see how you are doing.
Simplify your lifestyle; live below your means. (Matthew 6:19-33) Because this discipline is critical to the success of any financial plan, next Sunday’s sermon will be devoted to this topic.
Provide immediately for an emergency fund. (1 Timothy 6:9-12) An emergency fund is an account separate from checking or long-term savings that is set aside specifically for emergencies.
Pay off all credit card debt; use cash or debit cards. (Proverbs 22:7) As you are building your emergency fund, begin to pay off your credit card debt and start using cash or debit cards for purchases. If you must use a credit card, be sure to pay off the debt monthly.
Practice long-range saving and investing habits. (Luke 14:28) Saving money is the Number 1 wise money management principle everyone should practice. There are three types of savings we should have: emergency savings, savings for wants and goals, and retirement savings.
All adults are invited to rediscover the Bible’s wisdom when it comes to prudent financial practices. In this study led by Rev. Rebecca Grogan you will find the keys to experiencing contentment, overcoming fear, and discovering joy through simplicity and generosity. This series could change your life, by changing your relationship with money.
Join us Sunday mornings in September at 10 a.m. in room 113. Books may be purchased where ever books are sold. If you need assistance, contact Rebecca, rgrogan@fumcplano.org.