Budgeting is a topic that many people hate, but it is so necessary when trying to get your finances in line with your dreams, goals and aspirations. Scripture tells us that it is important to “count the cost” if we want to build (Luke 14:28).
Let’s write some thoughts down about….
What are you trying to build? A savings account? The ability to stop living paycheck to paycheck? An education/degree? The ability to not work in a stressful, dead-end job?
What drives you? What do you wish you could change/be/experience in your life? What’s missing/lacking/insufficient? What’s working/thriving/flourishing? What do you love about your life? What would you change if you could?
The specific “what’ [you are striving for] is not as important as the how [to get there]. A plan is necessary, so let’s talk about one way to plan which is, of course, the awesome budget! (This is a rough draft budget, so don’t stress. We’ll talk next week about how to dig out, stop the bleeding, and turn this around.)
1) Don’t over complicate it, just get it written down (paper, excel spreadsheet, the note taking app on your phone).
2) Write down all of your net income (from all sources) and total it.
3) Write down all of your monthly expenses and total it.
Write down everything…don’t forget the reoccurring auto drafts..you know the ones… Netflix, gym memberships, etc).
4) Subtract and figure out the number remaining. Are you surprised? Are you happy, nervous, stressed with this number? Are you cash flow positive or negative?
If you are in financial crisis mode, you need a plan to dig out. Financial bondage kills your ability to grow into your God given purpose. Financial stress destroys relationships, hinders your ability to live in a peaceful mindset (Isaiah 26:3) and is a breeding ground for feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, insecurity and doubt.
But, guess what? If you completed the exercise above, you just took a major first step. Knowledge is key in digging out of a financial mess, so pat your self on the back!
So, what’s next? I think we pray for Godly wisdom in regards to your financial situation. James 1:5 tells us “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Take this week and pray for wisdom and direction and see what God says.
Here are some questions I would like you to pray about (not act on, just pray about):
1) Are there any expenses I can cut back on? What is not necessary?
2) Are there additional ways I can make money?
Feel free to ask questions, tell your budgeting experiences here. I’d love to hear about you and what you’re going through and I’d love to pray for you, too!
God bless!
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