Someone recently stated to me during a phone conversation, “They are teaching budgeting practices, which is very much needed and important. However, I always think of you (Dave) as teaching God’s Word and biblical principles of money management.”
I had to think about that statement and summarization, since I have taught budgeting techniques for the past forty years. However, I then internally smiled, and decided I very much liked the caller’s label and perspective for my life and ministry work.
So, with that “label” in mind, it is now February. Do you and your spouse, if married, have a written and balanced budget for 2024? If not, why not? God’s Word clearly instructs us to do so!
If you already have a completed and written 2024 budget, then you are to be commended for obeying God’s Word and clearly following His stated biblical principles in this crucial matter.
Having a clear and defined operating budget is completely tied to the concept of obtaining God’s “true” financial freedom. Such freedom goes way beyond the “world’s” concept of financial freedom as only coming through being rich or wealthy. Those with wealth can often be living in complete bondage, and those with little wealth can be living in complete financial freedom.
In keeping with “teaching God’s Word,” take a look at what the Bible says regarding planning and budgeting. Read the following verses. If you are a born-again Christian, then let the indwelling Holy Spirit guide your responses and pending actions. If you have yet to give your heart and life to Jesus Christ, you can still practice God’s financial disciplines, and they will work for you also.
Bible verses related to planning and budgeting:
Proverbs 4:7
The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; and with all your acquiring, get understanding.
Proverbs 24:3-4
By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; and by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
Proverbs 27:23-24
Know well the condition of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds; for riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to all generations.
Proverbs 16:9
The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.
Proverbs 27:12, 23
A prudent man sees evil and hides himself, the naive proceed and pay the penalty.
Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.
Proverbs 24:30-34
I passed by the field of the sluggard and by the vineyard of the man lacking sense, and behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles; Its surface was covered with nettles, When I saw, I reflected upon it; I looked, and received instruction. “A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest,” Then your poverty will come as a robber and your want like an armed man.
Proverbs 21:20
There is precious treasure and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man swallows it up.
Luke 14:28-30
For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’
I Corinthians 14:40
But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.
(The subject here is not related to money, but note the “all things.”)
John 8:31-32
So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” (Budgeting is 100% math; and math is always truth.)
We have counseled people for the past forty years. The process of budgeting gives people hope, encouragement, and specific goals. One of the primary goals of budgeting, beside God’s Word instructing us to do so, is to help people live within their means, stay out of consumer debt, have the freedom to give generously, and experience the true financial freedom God intends for us to enjoy.
Our hope is that you have your 2024 budget and financial plan all prepared. If not, it is NOT too late! Set a February date to finish this crucial project. If you need help, let us know and we will do our best to help you, or refer you to someone else who would love to assist you.
Serving Together With You,
David and Debbie Bragonier
PS. There may be others in your church or community who need budgeting help. Maybe we should schedule a budgeting workshop to teach those wanting to get started, and supplying them with all the forms and tools needed?
If you are a self-starter, you may want to look at this on-line budgeting software someone recently shared with us? It is a computerized version of the envelope system. It appears to be very practical and helpful: