As we continue talking about debt, and how to get rid of it, Mr Ramsey encourages us to get really serious about being set free from this financial nightmare. He says, “You won’t wander out of debt. You won’t stroll out. You’ll only get out if you set your eyes on the goal and attack your debt with gazelle intensity!” (p97) He gives us five steps to get out of debt.
First, stop borrowing more money! I always enjoy this part of coordinating FPU classes, we do some “plastic surgery” as we encourage attendees to cut up some credit cards. Of course, the debt still has to be paid off, but once the card is destroyed, it cannot be charged up again.
Second, save money! Sadly, “The credit card has replaced the emergency fund for most Americans, and that’s one reason why so many people can’t get ahead.” (p98) So get that beginners Emergency Fund started so you do not need to rely on plastic for the unexpected, ever again.
Third, prayer really works! Always get God’s guidance with every decision you must make. Thinking that God doesn’t care about your finances, means you don’t know your Bible very well. As I have said before, every gift is meant to come to and through you, for God’s glory, this includes our finances. God gives it to us so God is concerned about it.
Fourth, sell something! He says, “I challenge you to walk through your house, look at everything, and ask, ‘Do I want this thing more than I want to be out of debt?’” (p98) We are talking about getting out of debt and this means finding the funds to pay down what we owe wherever we can. Too many of us have too many things lying around that we really do not need, but someone else may need them. So sell it to them
Fifth, get to work! Mr Ramsey tells us that our income is our greatest tool in building wealth, and it is the best way to get out of debt too. Asking for overtime, or getting a side gig can help us have more cash to throw at that bondage of debt so that we can be free, once and for all, of that shackle.
Let me share with you something I have learned along my journey. The enemy tries two things to stop us in our tracks. Both will paralyze us and keep us from the freedom we desire. 1- he tries to convince us, “There’s no rush. You can get to all this next year.” This is called procrastination, which means we are not changing our flawed ways, and that will only put us deeper into the hole. Or 2- he tries to get us overwhelmed. He will scream at us, “You’ve got to do it all, and do it all right now!” Don’t fall for it. Remember, Baby Steps and consistency will get us where we really want to be, debt free. You commit to bring the gazelle intensity, and you can be sure to just watch yourself escape the perils of debt!
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
