At this very moment, thousands of people are facing financial difficulties and economic challenges. Perhaps you’re one of them. If so, here’s good news: God wants to be part of every aspect of your life; he wants to help you face every problem. Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).
Let these four sound principles of money management help you take charge of your finances and begin living life to its fullest:
1. Think Creatively
If you keep doing what you’ve been doing, you’ll keep getting what you’ve been getting. So, if you are having financial difficulties, take a close look at how you got into this situation. Strive to approach things in a fresh, new way. But remember—it is impossible to think creative thoughts out of a mind that is worried. You need to ask God to give you a peaceful mind through which he can send an answer to your money problems. Jesus said: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life…” (Luke 12:22). Worry blocks creative thinking and tends to stop the flow of prosperity. Center your mind on God and his abundance.
2. Be Knowledgeable
Know what your own financial situation is. Make a complete list of all your assets and debts. Organization, aided by discipline, helps us use what we have wisely. Jesus taught us, in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), that we are accountable for what God has given us. Use your finances wisely, no matter how little (or much!) you have.
3. Tap into the “Law of Supply”
The “Law of Supply” demonstrates that the world is full of goodness and that we can draw on that goodness. It means that life is full of prosperity and we can draw on that prosperity. But you will never get these good things by grabbing or holding; you get them by giving. Give yourself completely to Jesus Christ and then start giving yourself to others. Give by praying for people. Give love, especially if you aren’t getting love. Give your time. Give money. “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:38).
4. Pray
The highest form of thinking is prayer. In prayer, you think God’s thoughts after him. You let that “mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). Through prayer, you get sudden insights. You are guided to overcome depressing difficulties. When you open your heart to God’s wisdom, you will find you have within yourself what it takes to stand up to anything!
