Someone who’s frugal saves their money, spends less than they earn, and is economical in their financial choices. Maybe that’s you. Or maybe you’re married to someone who’s a conscientious penny-pincher.
Being frugal can demonstrate virtues like self-control and patience. And of course, we’ve all heard Benjamin Franklin’s quote, “A penny saved is a penny earned.” Here at Faith and Finance, we do recommend saving for the future, paying down your debts, and avoiding overspending.
But there is a difference between just being frugal, and the financial stewardship we talk about on this program.
MORE THAN FRUGALITY
Frugality on its own is not the answer to financial peace. From a biblical perspective, we aren’t the owners of our money and possessions; God is. “For the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it”, as it says in Psalm 24. Acknowledging the Lordship of Christ over our finances puts the emphasis on the heart, not the balance sheet.
Here's what Jesus said about this in Matthew 6: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
But the eternal benefits Jesus talks about are different. They come when you surrender all your needs and desires to God, accepting your role as a steward, or caretaker of his blessings. It’s really a matter of perspective: Frugality can be a part of stewardship or, by itself, can become a source of selfishness, greed, and pride.
HOW CAN YOU TELL?
How can you tell if you’ve gone from solid stewardship to frugal foolishness? Here are some of the signs:
Do you spend hours being frugal every week? Maybe you’re into clipping coupons, driving around to get the best gas prices, or searching the Internet for deals on necessities. In other words, has frugality become an obsession?
Do you go without things you need just to save money? Maybe you’re like the person who sleeps on the floor just to avoid spending money on a bed.
Another warning sign is hoarding. You buy items when the price is low, ending up with closets full of toothpaste or toilet paper. Or you refuse to throw things away, thinking you might use them later. This can be a warning sign for lack of trust in God’s provision.
If you think about frugality as a competition or feel pressured to do it, you may have the wrong attitude. And if spending any money at all stresses you out, that’s an indication that you’re missing out on God’s peace.
A final sign that you might be taking frugality too far, is if you resent having to give or share anything, even if it’s just a potluck supper or a church fundraiser. The fact is, God calls us to be generous. If penny-pinching kills your generosity, you’re missing out on God’s blessings. Hebrews 13:16 reminds us, “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”
As with every kind of behavior, there’s always an underlying mindset that triggers our actions. We’ve found that, in most cases, overdoing it on frugality springs from a lack of balance. It’s okay to clip coupons, for example, just don’t spend ten hours a week doing it. Your time is valuable, too.
Paying attention to the basic health and well-being of yourself and your family is more important than shaving a few dollars off the power bill or grocery costs. And, while there’s nothing inherently wrong with spending money, there are more important things in life than money. Generosity towards others, for example, can bring joy that far outweighs a few extra dollars in the bank.
So, if you find that your frugality is looking more like foolishness, it’s time to restore the balance. Jesus has the answer for you. “…Seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things [things you really need] will be added to you.”
Biblically speaking, stewardship has a larger purpose than frugality. It is to further God’s Kingdom work here on Earth until Jesus comes back. Stewardship also has a spiritual purpose in our own lives: the way we handle our material possessions is a response to what God has done for us.
It’s an outward expression of our gratitude for His love and goodness and provision.
Ultimately, stewardship allows us to turn around and give back to others, spreading the blessings we’ve been given, and the Good News of Jesus Christ.
On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions:
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.
Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
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