Financial Freedom

Sam and Linda were unable to make the payments on their car loan.  Consequently, the vehicle was repossessed by the finance company.  Yet, each day they ate their lunch at the local Burger King.

Tom and Judy bought new furniture and cupboards for their home, charging it to their credit cards.  When Tom's employer let him go because of the economic downturn, they found themselves in financial trouble.  Finally they had to declare bankruptcy in order to handle all their bills.

These are but two examples (and I'm sure you can add many of your own) of people who created their own problems through lack of planning and poor management.  The ability to earn a living does not carry with it the correlative intelligence to act as a good steward in the use of that income.

So often in my lifetime I have witnessed individuals and families who are struggling, not because of lack of resources, but because of imprudence in the utilization of those resources.  I have wanted to ask them two questions:  "What are your priorities?  What do  you want out of your life, now and in the future?"

If they are able to answer those questions, then it is simply a matter of placing their behavior, their choices, their actions alongside to see what fits and what doesn't.  Making decisions based on our life's values, goals and priorities avoids irrational and emotional choices which get us into difficulty.  It also allows for greater planning leading to long term satisfaction, peace and happiness.

There are many programs, mentors, gurus and aides available to assist in this process.  One website that I found particularly helpful is www.financialintegrity.org.  It is a self-help, at-your-own-pace program that is free.  It provides a process which helps to clear away many of the cobwebs that our consumer society places in our road.

When we have defined our own values and goals, it becomes much easier to live according to them.  Then we are much more participants in our own life, and less victims of circumstances.  Recognizing our giftedness by God with all that we need to live enables us to have a heart that is open to others.  This attitude of gratitude brings with it a freedom and peace that is truly beyond understanding.