During difficult economic times, what are the main things NOT to skimp on?
Dear Friends,
The older I get, the faster time goes. I look up from putting away Christmas decorations and suddenly, spring is here. God’s cycles are evident in the changing of seasons, and I am reminded that this time in our economy and in our nation is part of a greater cycle that He is accomplishing.
The topic of the video this week – eight things not to skimp on – reminded me of two things.
First of all, it reminded me that our God is a God of abundance, not lack. As we are prudent and as we evaluate areas of our financial life where we need to slim down so that other areas may flourish, I am convicted that God’s economy is one of abundance. I pray that you enjoyed the Scriptures about abundance on the email you received. Beginning with the creation of man, through the salvation of Christ, and into the life we are called to live, God’s Word speaks of abundant provision and growth. I praise Him for the unstoppable and unshakable abundance of His Kingdom, especially as I watch the green of Atlanta in springtime explode around me.
Secondly, the topic reminded me of just how much “management” life can take. We all desire to be responsible and proactive in our finances. Often, knowing how to execute on our proactive intentions can be a real challenge. This week, I’ve taken the eight areas and provided links to other websites where you might find additional practical help. There are seemingly infinite resources available on the web, and I hope that these few resources will help to simplify things for you:
Blessings,
Ron
Click here for the video transcript
The older I get, the faster time goes. I look up from putting away Christmas decorations and suddenly, spring is here. God’s cycles are evident in the changing of seasons, and I am reminded that this time in our economy and in our nation is part of a greater cycle that He is accomplishing.
The topic of the video this week – eight things not to skimp on – reminded me of two things.
First of all, it reminded me that our God is a God of abundance, not lack. As we are prudent and as we evaluate areas of our financial life where we need to slim down so that other areas may flourish, I am convicted that God’s economy is one of abundance. I pray that you enjoyed the Scriptures about abundance on the email you received. Beginning with the creation of man, through the salvation of Christ, and into the life we are called to live, God’s Word speaks of abundant provision and growth. I praise Him for the unstoppable and unshakable abundance of His Kingdom, especially as I watch the green of Atlanta in springtime explode around me.
Secondly, the topic reminded me of just how much “management” life can take. We all desire to be responsible and proactive in our finances. Often, knowing how to execute on our proactive intentions can be a real challenge. This week, I’ve taken the eight areas and provided links to other websites where you might find additional practical help. There are seemingly infinite resources available on the web, and I hope that these few resources will help to simplify things for you:
- Giving - For encouraging updates on the generosity movement in America, you can visit (and subscribe to) GenerousNews.org. For information on the fiscal responsibility of various ministries you may be donating to, visit MinistryWatch.com.
- Mortgage Payments - Hud.gov is the US Department of Housing and Urban Development site that gives basic information as well as links to local groups that will advise you if you have difficulty in paying your mortgage.
- Utilities - TheList.com gives a list, by zip code, of various Internet Service Providers (ISP) and their rates. Ehow.com tells how to reduce your spending on various utilities. MSN Money gives several tips on reducing your electric bill.
- Car Maintenance - PioneerThinking.com gives the top ten rules of “high mileage” car maintenance. Samarins.com gives tips on car maintenance and care. CarJunky.com has forums on auto repair as well as information on various makes and models.
- Health Insurance - HealthInsurance.com is a resource center to get information on various aspects of health insurance.
- Time with family - BetterhBudgeting.com has articles about family time and date nights on a budget. FamilyZip.com is a site where you have to sign up (for free) but then you can get access to many different savings opportunities and promotions.
- Patience and long term vision - CrossWalk.com gives access to many different daily devotionals. You can choose one that interests you and sign up to get the devotion for the day. Consistently reinforcing an eternal perspective allows you to maintain patience in trying times.
- Prayer and Bible reading - OneYearBibleOnline.com is a fantastic resource that has a Scripture reading for each day and allows you to read through the Bible in a year.
Blessings,
Ron
Click here for the video transcript
Great reminder to invest more time in the Word! Thanks!
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This was a great post.
As Ron mentioned, having an eternal perspective is key. When we look at difficulties and struggles as ordained by a God that loves us, we can only come to the conclusion that He is doing it for our good. As Paul in Philippians states, there nothing in our life greater than knowing Christ. We should use difficulties and struggles as a catalyst to spur us on in greater Christlikness realizing that the struggles we face on this earth are temporal compared to eternity.
I think having a global perspective is also helpful. Many times our struggles, trials, and things we worry about pale in comparison to those experienced DAILY by many in other parts of the world. Those of us who have the ability to view this post should realize that simply having a computer with some type of Internet connectivity makes us some of the richest people in the world.
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I like that final saying, "Faith leads to contentment." I am always asking myself this question where is your faith/trust in God or mammon? What I liked about this blog is it describes only needs not wants. How exciting is God provisions, to know that God has provided everything we need to be successful not what the world describes as needs big houses, fancy cars, and living above our means?
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What I liked about this is I thought the tips were all going to be related to $$ but I love the last two which reminds us to be faithful in spending time with the Lord. And after all, that is free. Great article to keep things in perspective. Thanks Ron!
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I thought 8 Things Not To Skimp on During Tough Economic Times is wonderful wisdom for all of us. We must all have a financial plan so we don't panic and make bad decisions that we will later regret.I had an opportunity to see Ron Blue teach Surviving Financial Meltdown in Chattanooga, TN. It was a wonderful experience. I have since read his new book which is also called Surviving Financial Meltdown. The book is filled with outstanding financial principles. Four principles that come to mind are:
1)Think long-term with goals & investing
2)Spend less than you earn
3)Maintain liquidity (emergency savings)
4)Minimize the use of debt.
Several years ago when I was in my thirties, I read one of his other books called Master Your Money. It was a life changing book. My wife and I questioned our financial motives and turn our finances over to God. We applied the financial principles found in Ron's books and the financial principles found in the Bible. In just 8 short years we are debt free except for our home which will be paid off in 2010. I remember one of the things Ron said, "Open your hand, and let God take what He wants to take, and let Him put into your hand what He wants to give you."
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I recently read "Surviving Financial Meltdown" and found the book to be very helpful and reassuring. I have suggested this book to family and friends.
Ron's advice on "what not to skimp on" during difficult times, I think, is wise for "all times".
I appreciate the links to other websites for further research.
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Great reminders to many, first time thoughts to many others. Thank you Ron for your teaching. As we go through these times, the only thing that will keep us strong is our faith, and our being faithful stewards.
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Ron, I especially agree with reading more of God's word and wisdom. I've really been finding it true that God is God of abundance, not lack. I also find that He is building my faith and gives me sprinkles of encouragement along the path of becoming debt free.
Thx for your continued encouragement !
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This is a great to the point message. I appreciate the simplicity and staight forwardness of the message.
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I love the fact that Ron reflects on the big picture here. Yes, times are certainly hard but there is a longer term that is essential to keep in mind as well. I love the fact that time together with family and with the Lord are among these important areas Ron mentions. Those relationships will still be with us long after the economy has changed, and we want to make it a priority to focus on those and "invest" there. Keep up the good work!
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It always amazes me how much I struggle with stewardship of God's Money. It is all his anyway, why do I fight it so much.
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