TODAY'S WORD WITH MARIA FULCHER

TODAY'S WORD WITH MARIA FULCHER:  MONEY ISSUES!!!

1.      The Bible teaches the proper attitude toward money. Money becomes a problem when it is misused. Paul taught Timothy,

But godliness with contentment is great gain: for we brought nothing into the world, for neither can we carry anything out; but having food and covering we shall be therewith content. But they that are minded to be rich fall into a temptation and a snare and many foolish and hurtful lusts, such as drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil: which some reaching after have been led astray from the faith, and have pierced themselves through with many sorrows (1 Tim. 6:6-10 NKJV).

      2. Secondly, discipline is necessary in order to handle money properly. In addition to having the right attitude about money, we must practice biblical discipline regarding the management of our resources.

Paul taught:

For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, If any will not work, neither let him eat. For we hear of some that walk among you disorderly, that work not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread (2 Thess. 3:10-12).

What did Paul mean when he wrote to Christians at Rome saying "Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law"? (Rom. 13:8NKJV). This does not mean that one cannot buy anything on credit. You don't owe anything until the payment is due. It does mean "Pay your bills." It also means that we should not over-extend our selves.

Here are some ways to tell if you are living beyond your means:

• "Maxing-out" your credit cards.
• Borrowing from the cash value of your insurance policy.
• Making new loans to pay off old ones.
• Using credit to buy luxury items or to take vacations.
• Borrowing money from your friends or relatives.
• Always paying your bills late.
• Having nothing in a savings account.
• Paying the smallest amount permitted on credit cards.
• Applying for new credit cards for more borrowing power.

If you find that you are living beyond your means, then begin to take action to either increase your income or decrease your spending.

Debt can be a millstone around the neck and can ruin a marriage. We must discipline ourselves to live within our means. Remember:

"If your out-going exceeds your income, your upkeep will be your downfall."

Reagan & Taylor at Cheer Comp!