One of Mike and my first Christmases, as a married couple, we agreed not to give each other gifts because we could not afford to buy gifts. I really love to open presents so I knew Mike would get me something little. What Mike really needed was a new suit. He only had one and at that time men wore suits to church. While walking around the mall I saw a men's store with a huge sign, advertising suits...1/2 off! I went and looked although I knew I could not afford it. Just like the advertising experts say, the sign made me go in and look, touch, feel and even try some creative financing but to no avail. The suit would be $136.00 with tax! (Remember we are talking 30 years ago!)
I worked downtown and had to park in a paid lot seven blocks away. I would meet a coworker and we would walk together. This particular morning as I got out of my car something caught my eye. It looked like money! The money was all rolled up. I bent down and picked it up. I unrolled it, counting as I went. $136.00! She and I could not believe it! Immediately I got excited and then realized it was not mine. I called the lot owner and the people in the building next to the lot to ask if anyone had lost cash. I waited two days, called again and was told by both owners that no one had lost money.
I bought Mike that suit! Now, whenever I lose something, I ask God if I cannot find it, please get it to the right person! God taught me so many lessons that Christmas. For the first time I was trying to be obedient with my money and look what God worked out for me! I would love to know the story of how that money got there. Not only to the parking space I would choose that day but to the very place I would step out of my car!
We are to be wise stewards of our money. That means we are a manager, overseer, or a person who acts in the best interest of the owner. A wise steward responsibly manages assets according to the instructions of the owner. The Bible gives us lots of instruction on how to manage our money. It starts with planning. Make sure you are spending wisely. Luke 14: 28, "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to seek if he has enough money to complete it." Proverbs 21: 5, "The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty." Do not spend in haste - there is probably a better plan. We must not incur unnecessary debt. Proverbs 22: 3, "A prudent man foresees the difficulties ahead and prepares for them; the simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences."
Don't let this Christmas season put you in debt. Ask God how you can be a wise steward starting this Christmas season!
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