When I am asked about the basic principles of financial wellness, I do not discuss insurance and emergency savings right away, I always begin with three most important truth every person must have in order for them to not just experience financial wellness, but security as well every step of the way.
Gratefulness. Gratefulness is simple. It is being thankful for the things that you have no matter how small or big they are. A person who is ungrateful will never find satisfaction and peace and without this, you can have all the money in the world and yet, you may feel as if you are the poorest man in the world. You are alive, you have means to get by today, so why not pause and thank God? Why choose to be negative when you can decide to give thanks and rather than sulk? Think of things you can do with your resources to glorify God and use it to your advantage.
What are the advantages of being grateful? Based on my experience, it relieves the anxiety I feel whenever faced with a financial challenge and when negative thoughts leave your head, you will have space to focus on the things you can do to make your situation better. Negativity may be motivating, but the motivation it gives is temporary and results to bitterness. You have to be accountable and take intentional steps to grow and that is when stewardship comes in. Stewardship is simply being able to manage what God has given you. It means not spending more than you earn and making sure that every cent that you are blessed with will go to tithing and needs first. Your finances should be designed to help you live in line with God’s will and rightful priorities. If you will follow what God wants you to, I am sure that God will never forsake you.
Now that you have decided to take positive steps, it’s now time to apply Colossians 3:23 rule.
Colossians 3:23, is my life verse, it says, whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. To me, it means doing your best with integrity as if your master is closely looking at you. One of God’s characteristics is that He is omnipresent, he sees you whatever it is your doing. It means when it is time to work, do not kill time and steal the money of your employer by doing things that have nothing to do with the work you are paid for, give your best and be a joy in your workplace. Be a blessing to others. Your earthly master may not be able to see all the good things you do and I am sure, there will be obstacles but know that God sees everything and have faith that God will always be there for you, He will give what is best for you. Just be steadfast and maintain a heart like David.
These things may seem simple but it is not easy especially when faced with a difficult financial situation. We will talk more about actual game plan that will help you cultivate a habit of gratefulness, stewardship and Colossians 3:23. Thank you for reading!
Comments
Post a Comment