I recently read this checklist that is a great guide before spending money. Use it as you make decisions about Christmas shopping. (Here’s your list; check it twice!)
Financial Freedom
Checklist for Trustworthy Spending
How do you know if you are trustworthy in the way you spend money? You must first desire to please the Lord in every way that you manage the financial resources He gives you. Before you purchase anything, ask yourself:
- “Is this purchase a true need or just a desire?”
- “Do I have the adequate funds to purchase this without using credit?”
- “Have I compared the cost of competitive products?”
- “Have I prayed about the purchase?”
- “Have I been patient in waiting on God’s provision?”
- “Do I have God’s peace regarding this purchase?”
- “Does this purchase conform to the purpose God has for me?”
- “Is there agreement with my spouse (if you are married) about this purchase?”
(from Hope For The Heart Biblical Counseling Keys © 2005 by Hope For The Heart. All rights reserved.)
Actually, I don't have a sense of needing anything personally. I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I'm just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.
(Philippians 4:11-13 from THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language © 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. All rights reserved.)
