In order for a budget to work, the first thing we must make sure of is that every expense is accounted for. Things that you know you will be spending funds on, like your car’s oil change, must be taken into consideration. To help out, Mr Ramsey gives us an excellent budget form in the back of this book that does bring to mind most, if not all, potential expenses, so we will not miss anything. I usually teach people to use a calendar where you can write down all the activities with expenses that you know about. Seeing everything in one picture usually makes it easier to remember the normal, as well as the unusual expenses, so you can account for them in your budget planning. For instance, Sally’s birthday party you were invited to a couple of months ago, can be placed on the calendar so you remember you need to allot some funds towards gifts that particular month. And do not forget to make a line item for savings too.
Next, we must actually follow it. To go through the work of writing it all out, agreeing with your spouse if you are married, or passing it by your accountability partner if you are Single, then NOT actually following it is…well, it’s foolish! For instance, if you decide your grocery budget this month will be $400, but then you go and spend $700? See? Instead, you must stick with it. Mr Ramsey says, “It’s like exercise. You can think about working out and write out a fantastic plan for how to get in shape, but if you never lace up your sneakers, and actually work out, your excellent plan will fail miserably. Remember, we’re dealing with behavioral change, not math skills. The math stays on the paper, but the behavior is in how you actually apply the plan to your life.” (p61) Reminder: it may take about three months for you to really know what you are spending and hone it in, but being diligent to follow your plan is the only way this budgeting will work in your favor. It helps us get creative. It helps us use self-control. It helps us set priorities. In short, it helps us be responsible adults and good stewards of God’s blessings. Just like with being a Christian, if we are not following the plan, then we will not have victory.
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
April: Living the Resurrected Life: “The Wonderful Spirit Filled Life” by Dr Charles Stanley
May: My Spiritual Mom: “Making Good Habits Breaking Bad Habits” by Joyce Meyer
June: Spiritual Dad: “It’s Not About Me- Rescue from the Life We Thought Would Make Us Happy” by Max Lucado
July: Financial Freedom “Complete Guide to Money” by Dave Ramsey
<>< Peace, Diane
