A new way to think about spending I have a confession to make: I love to shop. I love the feeling I get when I get a good deal on my purchases. I feel like I really accomplished something! Do you know I rarely pay more than $20 for a clothing item?! My secret is probably not so secret: I shop the clearance rack first, then I check out the sales. If I have a coupon, it’s even better!
Although I love to shop, I don’t go crazy. My tithe is given, bills are paid, we pay ourselves (savings), groceries are bought. I am aware of money spent and how much I can use to go shopping. Sometimes I can get tempted by sales and savings and have to tell myself, “you don’t need it.” We live in a culture that wants us to spend money. These companies and business owners know how to persuade you to buy by using psychological triggers. You see it in social media feeds, on tv, newspapers, billboards, in movies, books, etc. They try to persuade you to buy things to solve problems you didn’t even know you had! Using words, colors, pretty faces, pain, love or pleasure to evoke emotions in us, compelling us to spend. Have you ever been compelled to enter your email address to get that free thing to help you make money? Or buy something because they say it is the last time the price will be this low? Feelings can be a strong motivator in us humans. I say can, feelings should not rule us. Remember we (believers in Jesus) have the spirit of self-control in us, among other things. You are more than your feelings. Don’t be roped in to buying things you don’t need or investing in business deals that are shady. Stop step back and think on it. According to financial experts there are spending guidelines to follow. The guideline is called the 50/30/20 rule. I will add in tithing and the new way to think about spending will be called the 10/50/20/20 rule;
This scripture sums it up. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV). When Jesus speaks we need to listen! Your homework:
Reference: Williams, G. A Guide to Creating Your Ideal Household Budget. U.S. News and World Report. https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2014/06/03/a-guide-to-creating-your-ideal-household-budget Published July 10, 2018. Accessed July 17, 2018
2 Comments
Kim
7/22/2018 08:03:44 am
Outstanding article! Very wise!
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Christina
7/24/2018 08:35:19 am
Thank you Kim!
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Let's be socialAuthor Christina Leeman MPH, writer and health educator, emboldens women to be the She Who Honors God with her all - body, thoughts, words, actions. Archives
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