Are you paying for the "right stuff"?

Even though you may be "pinching pennies", you might not be paying for the right things!  I encourage you to find Dave Ramsey's, FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY classes http://www.daveramsey.com/ and bite the bullet and take the 13-week course.  One of our class members said, "(I) wish it were forced learning for so many others".  The cost of the kit if about $100 if ordered with the class.  Could you afford to spend $100 to reap such great rewards in your finances?

Are you ready for Christmas or Taxes?

If not, here's a solution:  Add the totals of up coming expenses and divide by 12.  You will know how much to save each month so the funds will be ready when you need them.  Take a deep breath - aaaahhhh!

Where are you?

According to USA TODAY, "Out of one hundred people age sixty-five, ninety-seven of them can't write a check for $600, fifty-four are still working, and three are financially secure."  (from Dave Ramsey, "The Total Money Makeover", page 154)  As a first step, at least get $500 or $1000 in an emergency fund.  It's so important to get debt free and BREATH.

The Parable of the Talents in Luke 19:23

"Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury (interest)?"  Really think about saving money - not to hoard, but to prepare for your future.  One of our FPU class couples reported that for the first time in their married life they have $500 in Savings.  That kind of preparation will bring peace and self-confidence into the life of your family.

Will you be wise too?

And the Lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.  Luke 16:8  It's so important to understand compound interest.  Money either works for you or AGAINST YOU.  Know the difference and make wise choices!

Think about it

Even though interest rates are low, would you rather earn interest (possibly less than 1%) or pay interest (14% or more) on credit cards?  It's important to think your "money" through before jumping into what may seem like a good deal.  Money earned is always better than money paid in the higher price of debt.