INVEST IN THE FUTURE BY SAVING

By Rick Warren

The Bible says a lot about making financial investments. In fact, you can see that Proverbs 21:20 is God's IQ test! Let's see how smart you are: wise people save for the future, but foolish people spend whatever they get.

There is a question you can ask yourself that will help you save more money. It's really simple. When you get ready to buy something, ask yourself, "Do I really need this?" And then be honest enough to tell yourself.

For instance, do I really need a new car? Well, I know I'd like it. But do I really need a new car? Do I really need this upgrade? I know I'd like it, but do I really need it?

A fundamental financial principle is this: when you spend your money, it's gone. Yet when you save your money, it works for you. The problem with most of us is that we work for our money instead of letting our money work for us. If you'll do it God's way, you can get out of debt, and you can be blessed.

Challenge Question #1: What adjustments do you need to make in your spending and saving so you're practicing wise stewardship of what God has entrusted to you?

Challenge Question #2: What motivates your spending and saving?

The posture of your heart is key.
"Godliness with contentment is great gain! You brought nothing into this world and you will nothing out; if you have food and clothing, be content. If you want to get rich quick, you will fall into temptations and traps, for the love of money is the root of all kinds of foolish and harmful desires..." 1 Timothy 6:6-9

The secret to financial freedom: Make it a lifestyle to spend less than you make.

Rick Warren is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th Century.