Self-control is one of the virtues of the Fruit of the Spirit, so as we choose to follow God in every area of life, we will be able to access this great attribute, and stay in control of our lives. Certainly finances are a huge part of life. Definitely not the most important part, but a huge part. So many things in this life require money, but if we do not exercise self-control here, we can get ourselves into all sorts of trouble. So once we write that unique monthly working budget, we have to lean on the Holy Spirit so we can stay under control.
So what does this look like? If it is not in the budget that month, then it is not happening that month. We have to draw the line in the sand and firmly decide whether we are going to live within our means, get out of debt, and live with peace in this area of our lives, or not. It seems common sense to understand that, if we make $4000 a month but spend $5000, we are going to invite problems into our lives really fast! Living within our means takes all sorts of self-control…so when those cute shoes you’ve been looking at go on sale, if it’s not in the budget, you have to have the fortitude to just say no. This helps us grow more and more into the Image of Christ who was in complete control over Himself every second of His Life. It makes us more humble like Him, and less Prideful like our old self. I hope you see that finances are not just about finances. It gives us so many opportunities to mature spiritually. And using self-control to stay committed to our monthly working budget, certainly matures us.
<>< Peace, Diane
