by David Chadwick
Financial problems are another real angst in people’s lives. I would say that financial problems are typically what I would call a fruit issue more than a root issue. Usually the problems arise because of something going on at a deeper heart level. It could be worry, bad stewardship, lack of personal responsibility and discipline, fear, laziness, or just a pure attack from the enemy. Whatever the root issue is, debt and financial tensions can really overwhelm the human heart!
Did you know that financial problems are mentioned in the Bible—especially in the book of Proverbs? Clearly God knew that we would need guidance in this area. As a side note, if financial management is something that you are struggling with, I would strongly encourage you to seek out people who are trained to help in this area. Our church offers this kind of financial help through one of our elders, Michael Ballard. I know many other churches who offer this as well.
Here are a few practical tips.
First, you must be aggressive in budgeting and self-control. List your income and assets. Then your debts. Be really honest with yourself. After that, create a plan to get rid of debt and start to build up savings. You may have to downsize some areas of your life like unnecessary shopping or dining out. You must determine not to let debt be your God!
Secondly, giving helps! The tithe has been found to be an enemy of debt and financial mismanagement. Malachi 3:8-10 and Luke 6:48 seem to suggest that generosity opens the windows of heaven for GOD to supply you with his abundance as you attack the debt problems in your life. As my wife loves to say, “Sow a seed to your need!” Something happens when you sacrifice in your greatest place of pain. Surrender always paves the way for salvation and miracles.
Here is the bottom line: God wants to be God in your life. When you feel a desire to be generous, God doesn’t want you to first ask the god of debt if you are allowed to be generous. Be persistent and remain committed to kill the god of debt in your life. It really can be done! We have seen it! It may take time, energy, and discipline but the end result of being out of debt makes the fight so worth it!
Today’s Prayer of Confession: Father God, deliver me from evil. Remove financial problems and replace it with ABUNDANCE to be able to freely give to those around me (Proverbs 11:24).