Paying Bills Often those of us who lived in domestic abuse had no control or say in financial matters in our home. After leaving abuse, we find ourselves with no knowledge or skills on managing money. God does not leave us in the dark regarding money. In fact, the bible talks more about money than any other topic. Why? Because humans crave money, power, and materialistic things. Humans need money to provide shelter, food, and basic needs. In this, God provides very clear guidelines on managing money. Yet, we are responsible to study the scriptures for ourselves and pray for Gods wisdom about money. God will help us learn the right way to manage finances, but it is up to us to begin following the principles laid out in the Word. Many of us long to pay our bills but struggle, some more than others. Emergencies happen that can put bills behind. The bible gives direction in all situations of struggle, and even on calling bill collectors to make payment arrangements. Two sins happen when we choose to not pay our bills, or fail to make arrangements to pay them. 1. We are disobeying God’s command. 2. We hurt our witness about God’s provisions for our life. Bills represent “borrowed” services with a promise to pay. Here are scriptures to support paying our bills: The wicked borrows but does not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives; - Psalm 37:21 ESV Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. - Romans 13:8 ESV We are a witness to those we owe money to. To the PG&E clerk, the Comcast customer service, Landlord, the credit card companies, etc. Moreover, we are a witness to our children and others who watch our life. If you have utilities, TV, phones, and internet in your home - then you have agreed to have those services based on a promise to pay. Our witness withers when we push our bills aside, go out to eat or to the movies, and refuse to pay our bills. Those who are struggling financially, I encourage you to do the following: 1. search the scriptures for yourself on how to manage money in a godly way, and 2. reach out to those financial mentors in the church to help set up budgets, a game plan to get out of debt and teach the scriptures in context, about giving, paying bills, and managing money in a godly manner. 3. Read godly books on managing money. (I suggest How to Manage Your Money: An In-Depth Bible Study On Personal Finances by Larry Burkett) Coming out of domestic violence or abuse means that we take control back in our lives. Not just emotional and physical, but financial control, too. Don’t get discouraged if you fail. We all have. There will be times of struggle. You are NOT alone in the struggle. Just keep pushing forward and follow God’s Word. It is okay to reach out for help. I did and still do. When I was 24, I approached my big sister, Terrie, for help. She sat down with me and taught me how to make a budget, pay bills, run a house, and save money. Again, in 2012, after going though great trial and trauma, not related to finances, but it left me in financial despair, my Christian financial mentor, Gerry Brinkman, helped redo a budget and set goals to get back on my feet. Its okay to reach out for help, to learn Gods way, and then practice what you learn. Take control of your finances. Educate yourself on ALL the financial scriptures in context and apply them to your life so you can bless God with obedience and bless others with a good witness of godly management of your funds. You can do this!! < 3 By Donna Wright © 2014
Posted on: Fri, 28 Nov 2014 20:08:12 +0000
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