In FPU, Mr Ramsey calls these monthly working budgets a Zero Balanced Budget because what comes in, must equal what goes out. Now that doesn’t mean you are spending every last penny on stuff. This monthly working budget has to include giving and savings too. But the point is, and where the total control over our money comes from, is that you are giving each dollar that comes in a designated place as to where it will go. So let’s say you bring in $4000 this month, then those $4000 all have to be put somewhere, on purpose. Check out my article on effective Finances on my website for more detailed information, link below. The first line item should be tithing as we talked about last week. Why? First, because God commands it. Second, because we are following God’s economy, so when we give cheerfully and obediently out of gratitude, we can never out give God. First and best is what we children of God ought to do.
The second line item should be saving, because you must “pay yourself” as they say, or that money will disappear on things that are not as important, like maybe those shoes that are on sale…ok I will stop with the shoes already! Next week, we will spend some time talking about savings, but for now, understand both tithing and savings have to be a priority in our monthly working budgets. We give to God first, and then we save for our future second, trusting God that everything else will work out.
I will just end today by proclaiming once again that the FPU plan has really blessed our household immensely…we are living life more responsibly, and still enjoying it greatly, even though I still do not “technically” have a job. Following God’s Plan in every area of life always effects us for the better. We went from being desperate to being in complete control, all while gaining a steady peace about our finances. God’s Plan really works…so long as we actually follow it!
<>< Peace, Diane
