Stewardship is a relevant subject. God calls you and me to use our time, talents, treasures, testimonies, and trials for His glory. In the area of finances, are you managing His money well? It’s wise to have a financial plan that allows us to give, save, and spend. Your church is here to help you develop such a plan.
Throughout the year, we offer various financial classes. Beginning this month, we’re offering the Financial Peace University class. The class will meet on Thursday nights for nine weeks, beginning March 31. This class is open to members and non-members of Bradfordville. You can find additional information about the class at bradfordville.org, or you can call the church office. We’d be glad to answer your questions or connect you with one of our instructors.
If you take the class, what are a few of the benefits?
- Be able to give as God says. God calls His people to be givers. In Acts 20:35, Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” In 2 Cor. 9:6-7, Paul stated, “The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” As you and I give, we’re able to share the Gospel with people in our city and around the world. What a joy to be in a financial position to give as God says!
- Reduce the stress in relationships. Life is stressful. It’s proven that financial concerns add stress to marriages and families. The number one issue of marital conflict is money. Too much or too little money is stressful. As you develop a financial plan, and stick with it, stress seems to dissipate.
- Save for upcoming rainy days. I grew up hearing the phrase, “Save for a rainy day.” As you and I know firsthand, one day it’s going to rain. Therefore, do you have an emergency fund? What happens when your roof starts leaking, your car battery is dead, your dentist tells you that you need a root canal, or you drop and break your mobile phone? Developing a solid financial plan allows you to be prepared for rainy days!
- Prepare for life after work. Do you have a financial plan that positions you to be ready for retirement? The best advice is to always start early in life. However, it’s never too late to start. You may say, “I never plan to retire. I intend to work as long as I can.” Even so, you and I still need to prepare financially for the future. Your health may not allow you to work in the future; your present position may not be available one day; or you may decide to change the number of hours you work at some point. A long-term financial plan is wise and gives you peace of mind.
- Allow the Lord to use you to help others. Do you ever meet people who need financial help? What a blessing to help an individual, couple, or family in need! A workable and biblical financial strategy puts you in a position to help others. It’s a joy to help financially someone in need without any strings attached. I’ve seen this point in action this week. It overwhelms people when you and I help them because we love Jesus and care about them.
If you’d like seeing and hearing testimonies about Financial Peace University, I encourage you to visit daveramsey.com. On Sunday morning in the Foyer, you can stop at the Financial Peace table to sign up or ask questions. Our leaders are eager and ready to assist and coach you to be the steward God desires you to be.
Palm Sunday is this week. May we come together and celebrate the amazing love that Jesus has for us!
I look forward to seeing you Sunday morning in Sunday school and worship.
I Love My Church,
Pastor Ronny
Philippians 1:3-6