Faith Filled Family Magazine August 2016 | Page 20

you,” we can boldly quote, God
is there, ready to help; I’m fearless no matter what. Who or
what can get to me? (Hebrews
13:5 MSG). Do you really need
Xfinity, Direct TV, etc.? For several years, I enjoyed the pleasure of watching TV with just
my converter box. And honestly,
whatever programs I wasn’t
given access to watch didn’t
matter to me at all. I had a DVD
and some decent movies and
I often chose to watch those.
As a single Christian woman, I
really don’t need all these other
material possessions. I can live
without them. And if you choose
to use such, be wise and don’t
go beyond what you can afford.
In other words, choose a plan
which doesn’t create a financial
strain upon you.

Revel in the goodness! (Psalms
128:1-2; Eccelaiities 3:13 MSG).
Before, I lost my job to abuse of
power; I did this and indulged
in pampering myself. But, first,
I always, made sure my tithes,
offerings, and monthly obligations were met.

Now, to discuss what to do when
financial stress is self-induced,
the answer isn’t as complicated
as some may think. Remember,
you choose to accept the terms
of the creditor. It was your choice
to obtain a credit card. First, you
must take responsibility for your
actions. The rich rules over the
poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender. (Proverbs
22:7) Affixing blame and getting
angry with those you owe shows
a lack of accountability on your
part. Having your children to
It’s your responsibility to make answer the phone and tell the
sure you use your income to creditors you’re not home, when
pay your monthly obligations. It’s in essence you are, is misleadunwise to use such as a means ing. First, you’re teaching your
to going out with a friend, pur- children to lie. Add to this, you’re
chasing some item you really giving them the impression that
can do without, going gambling it’s alright to get in debt and
or loaning it out to someone. avoid making payments. This is
Please don’t misunderstand me. not a good witness of a ChristI am all for helping people, how- like life.
ever; not at the expense of using
money that should be allotted A great example would be admitfor my basic necessities. Make ting that you have been unwise
sure you’re not enabling such a in handling your financial obligaperson to continue to be finan- tions. Such an act of accountabilcially irresponsible.
ity sets the stage for recovery.
As Christians, we must pray and
Also, might I suggest taking a ask God for guidance. Attempt to
few dollars from each pay check set up a payment plan with your
to reserve for your own personal creditors. As calmly as possible,
pleasure? Surely, God desires us try to explain your situation.
to enjoy the fruit of our labor. All Most will try to work out some
you who fear GOD, how blessed type of reasonable plan simply
you are! how happily you walk because, they want their money.
on his smooth straight road! You 0nce this is established, do your
worked hard a deserve all you’ve best to adhere to what you have
got coming. Enjoy the blessing! agreed upon.

Now, not all financial hardships
are self-induced. Sometimes,
unforeseen events occur and
create a time of financial difficulty. Take for example if you
lose your job un-expectantly and
you are out of work for a long
period of time. This can bring
stress in any family. It takes a
tremendous amount of courage to endure such, and you
must fight the good fight of faith
without retaliating. Financial difficulties may also be the result
of unexpected expenses due to
a family illness. Whatever the
reason, unshakeable faith in
God can take you through with
peace that surpasses all understanding. God will take care of
you and supply your every need.
And my God will liberally supply
(fill until full) your every need
according to His riches in glory
in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19
AMP). An answer to every challenge we face can be found on
the pages in the infallible word of
God.
Some things are beyond your
control. And in such a case, there
comes a time in your life when
you just need to ask for help.
Too often, many are ashamed
to seek help from others. They
feel embarrassed. Their pride
gets in the way, causing them to
pretend they can make it on their
own. Still another may feel less
of a man or woman when they
have to ask for help. Asking for
help isn’t a sign of weakness. It
shows you are responsible and
wise enough to know when circumstances are beyond your
control. However, it is imperative to be careful from whom you
seek help. (1).
Also, in such an incidence, you