Revenue is what you bring in, and the profit is what you actually keep after subtracting everything you paid for to get it.

What does that even mean? It means that, as a business owner, the money you make isn’t necessarily the money you keep. Once you take into account what you spent on marketing, contractors’ pay, software subscriptions, appearance (depending on your job), client relations, legal fees, etc., you realize that $100,000 can quickly turn into $50,000, and none of those expenses included your pay. Not to mention the amount you have to reinvest, pull for taxes, and set aside for reserves.

In last week’s Bible study, we studied Luke 14:28 from both a discipleship and stewardship point of view. The verse says:

²⁸ For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

Basically, who makes a plan to do anything without first thinking (and praying) about what it’s going to cost you? We know the outcome we want, it’s the Kingdom. But how exactly are we getting there, and what will we lose along the way?

Before we can answer “Is my business really profitable?” we have to answer these questions with honesty:

1. What does it cost me to make a sale?

2. Am I just keeping the profit, or do I have an actual wage?

3. Can my business survive a slow month or two?

Knowing your monthly numbers is how you build a business to last. The pricing of your products or services is based on the actual cost and profit margin.

Now, when it comes to sustaining a business, a lack of financial management is one of the easiest ways to fumble. Here are four basic financial terms every business owner should know and fully understand:

Net Profit

Tells whether your business is actually making money. It’s what you keep after subtracting all expenses, taxes, etc., from revenue.

• How to calculate: Revenue - Expenses = Net Profit

Cash Flow

The movement of money flowing in and out of your business. A business can be profitable but still struggle if cash isn’t available to pay bills when they’re due.

• Positive cash flow means more money coming in than going out.

• Negative cash flow means you’re spending more than you’re receiving.

Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)

The direct costs of producing a product or service. This helps you determine what you’ll charge. If it costs you $50, selling it for $50 does nothing for you. This is where you find the gross margin.

Gross Margin: The percentage of money left after subtracting the cost of goods sold. This tells you whether you’re above or below your industry’s average.

• How to calculate: (Revenue - Cost of Goods Sold) ÷ Revenue x 100

Break-Even Point

When your total revenue equals your total expenses. This means you’re not taking a profit or a loss. This helps you figure out how many products or services you need to sell before you start making a profit.

All of these can be answered using your financial statements. And if you don’t know what that is or how to read it, learn immediately!

As a business owner, you acknowledge that counting the cost isn’t a response of fear but proper stewardship. It’s making sure whatever you’re building has the resources and funds needed to not only finish and sustain itself, but you as well.

I challenge you to take those four financial terms and gather the real numbers for your business. Meaning spend this week finding out your net profit, gross margin, whether you have a negative or positive cash flow, or if your business is currently breaking even.

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If reading this made you realize you actually need help figuring this out, schedule a clarity call with me here. I’d love to help.

I wasn’t necessarily blowing it all, but there was no planning or strategy attached to my spending. Now, I understand the importance of stewardship, in regard to showing gratitude and total appreciation through the way I value what’s given to me.

So let’s talk about one of the strategies I created to help myself budget, pay down debt, save, invest, and plan for a life I can live with purpose.

After reading books and going through “how to” programs, I realized I needed to create my own plan of action to get from point A, owing more than I own, to point B, with a positive net worth, an emergency fund, and consistent investing. That’s when I came up with STACK!

I built a workbook to turn this plan into actionable steps. Instead of just telling myself to save, budget, etc., I needed something to help me see what my numbers look like on paper. This workbook helped me organize my emergency fund goal, create a debt payoff strategy by seeing which debts to tackle first, and build a plan for saving and investing. It takes the STACK strategy and puts it into a place where you can actually see your numbers, make decisions, and track your progress.

I created a free STACK tracker, so you can simply track your progress.

Or get the paid STACK Workbook —> Here.

(S)ave for an Emergency Fund

For me, the first step is building an emergency fund. A lot of professionals will recommend that you get out of debt first, but what happens if there’s an emergency? Are you reaching back into the debt that you just cleared, and then the cycle repeats? Building an emergency fund gave me financial peace of mind, knowing that while I work to pay off my debt, if anything happens, I have my own to stand on and don’t need to accumulate more debt.

Only you know where to start. After paying my obligations, I put every single penny I had left over into a high-yield savings account. I would recommend that you aim for 3 months’ worth of your current monthly living expenses, but is that doable for you? Maybe you can only save $200 a month, and if that’s the case, then start there. It’s better to start now with a little than to end up with nothing later.

I opened a high-yield savings account to gain interest while it just sits there. They’re just as safe as a regular savings account, with higher dividends. There are a handful of trusted HYSAs, but the most common are banks like American Express or Marcus by Goldman Sachs. Always do your research on what’s out there to see which you like best and what’s a better option for you.

At the end of the day, any return from a high-yield savings account is better than the 0.01% we receive from regular savings accounts.

(T)ackle High-Interest Debt

Everybody’s least favorite task: paying back what you owe. The reality is that every single day we carry a debt, the amount of interest we’re paying increases.

How do we pay off our debt? There are two major repayment methods: the avalanche method and the debt snowball method. The one you choose depends on the type of person you are. If you’re patient, disciplined, and want to prioritize saving money on interest charges, the avalanche method is for you.

But if you know you’re motivated by quick wins and need to visually see progress, try the snowball method. What matters most is that you create a plan of action to do it and follow through. For a good resource to learn more in-depth about how each method works, with examples included, read this article from Fidelity.

(A)ssign Every Dollar to Its Purpose

This is one of the most important steps in STACK when your goal is to be intentional about how and where you spend your money. The thing with assigning every dollar to a purpose is that you no longer have those fly-away dollars. The money that you have left over from each paycheck shouldn’t just be money to spend however you please.

This step helps you control your transactions completely, reduce stress or even regret, and build towards stewardship. If you already have a budget, then this part is easy: any leftover dollars you’re not accounting for need to be assigned to something beneficial to you.

If you don’t have a budget yet, create one where every dollar has a job: cover essentials first, save/invest for the future, and allocate money for fun or non-essentials last. In the end, every single dollar you make should have a purpose.

(C)onsistently Invest & Save

A lot of people hear the word 'invest' and get a little hesitant. It’s hard to put money into something you know nothing about. I’d argue it’s even harder to spend it all on something that brings you no value now or in the future.

The most common investment accounts are tax-free or tax-deferred growth investments like 401(k)s and Roth IRAs. Then, of course, you have brokerage accounts.

I’ll dive deeper into this in another post, but for now, start with your research. Visit firms like Fidelity and watch their free videos about getting started. And if you’re not already, start contributing to your 401(K). That’s the easiest way to start investing.

Whether you're looking for a retirement account like a Roth IRA or just starting with stocks and bonds, it’s important to educate yourself as you start building your investment strategy. You can learn all about the different types of investment accounts here.

(K)now Your Worth: Invest in Yourself

Knowing your worth can be hard, especially when it comes to money. A lot of our worth is predetermined by our upbringing, and there are money beliefs instilled in us that we don’t even realize. Once you view yourself the way God sees you, it changes the way you move and think about yourself in every aspect of your life.

There are many ways to invest in yourself, with education being one of them. I don’t mean you have to go back to school; I just mean feeding your mind with things that inspire you to grow, elevate your thinking, and increase your potential.

One of the ways I’ve decided to invest in myself while still enjoying my life is by attending conferences and events that connect me with people who can inspire and motivate me in certain areas of my life. Whatever it is you choose to do to bring value to your personal growth, set aside the funds to do that and be intentional about it.

As much as I’d love to stay on track with STACK, I am human, and I slip up. But compared to how I spent money two years ago, the baby steps have made a difference, and practice makes perfect. So, the more I look at my budget and goals, the more I’m reminded of where I want to be.

If you want to put your goals into action, this workbook will help.

Stop treating your business like a hobby.

Maybe it was at some point. But as of today, it’s a full-blown business that deserves to be treated as one. That means you not only have a separate business bank account and credit cards, but you intentionally separate those transactions from your personal expenses.

Now, if you don’t have a business bank account, get on that immediately. It doesn’t matter if you’re making $50 or $5,000.

Start the separation now so it becomes a habit as your business grows.

Pay yourself intentionally.

One of the easiest ways to make creator income feel chaotic is to treat every dollar that hits like spending money. Whether you’re creating content full-time or still working a W2, not every dollar you receive goes straight into your pocket.

Decide what percentage stays in the business, what goes to taxes, and what you actually want to pay yourself.

Track EVERY penny you make and every penny you spend.

I cannot express the importance of knowing exactly what you’re making and where it’s going. No matter the amount you have coming in, if you have no idea what your net profit was last month, you’re just doing this for fun. Not only can you miss reinvestment opportunities, but being out of the loop in your own finances makes it impossible to project.

You want to grow, but from where?

And of course, it makes tax season less intense. Maybe you can actually get some deductions. But how will you know if you can’t tell your CPA or even prove where your money went?

Speaking of taxes. Pay them.

As a business owner myself, I understand how taxes can feel like a thief in the night. I didn’t file my taxes for two years and paid for it in fees and penalties.

If you’re not sure what your tax status is, how often you should file, or just confused about what self-employment taxes look like, schedule a free consultation with a CPA. A lot of them offer free workshops too.

Now, if you’ve been a six-figure content creator for two years or more, it’s time to get with an accounting/CPA firm and start tax planning and strategizing.

(This is general educational information, not individualized tax advice.)

Don’t fall victim to lifestyle creep.

You see an increase in your income and immediately start upgrading your life. Slow down. A few viral or prosperous months do not automatically mean your income will continue at that level. That’s the goal, of course, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Upgrade your lifestyle gradually, build reserves, and reinvest in your brand.

Prepare for the slow months.

If you’re already a full-time content creator, you understand what a fluctuating income looks like. That means some months are high, others are low. So mentally and financially, you need to prepare for those slower months. You do so by building a reserve, which is savings set aside specifically for when income is low.

Don’t use “business expense” as an excuse to spend money.

A tax deduction isn’t free money. Content creators are constantly told that cameras, clothes, traveling, etc., can be written off, and some can qualify. But spending $1,000 on something you don’t actually need just to save a few hundred in taxes is not smart business.

These are the conversations I’d have with a content creator. None of these are particularly complicated, but the earlier you build these habits, the easier it is to manage your money as you make more. If you’re feeling a little lost and could use a phone call, I’m here to help! Schedule one with me here.

Groceries have been a hot topic for a while. Not just with the recalls and fear around eating certain foods (which I rebuke the spirit of), but the cost of food itself. It’s getting real pricy to eat at home, and it doesn’t seem like it’ll reduce or find a steady price anytime soon.

According to government figures, groceries are 33% more expensive since 2019. The crazy part is that 7 and 1/2 years before that, prices only rose by 6.4%.

Now there is no way to actually beat inflation, but there are ways to make it feel less taxing on your finances. If you’re like me, then eating out isn’t a solution. So how do we make the most out of this, reducing any anxiety or stress that it brings?

Take full advantage of the rewards system.

One of my favorite point systems today is Kroger and Shell. If I’m buying groceries anyway, why not decrease my gas price at the same time? So when you shop at Kroger, you receive points per dollar. Every 100 points is ten cents off your gas at Shell or Kroger gas stations. $400 in groceries → 400 points → $0.40 off per gallon.

We’re spending the money anyway, so why not take advantage?

You could also do this with a credit card that offers rewards at grocery stores, which I HIGHLY discourage if you do not have the funds to pay them back immediately. Points aren’t savings if you’re paying interest to earn them. That defeats the whole point of the reward system.

Also, look into other grocery stores that offer similar systems. Kroger isn’t the only one.

Reduce waste: Buy what you need and meal prep.

Pay attention to whether you’re buying too much produce or fresh foods at once, it could result in waste if you don’t eat them in time. $100 in groceries feels expensive when you’re only consuming $75 of it and still have to go buy food to replace what was wasted.

Avoid impulse buying with a shopping list. Making a list will save us every time, especially if I’m shopping with my husband! Shopping with him is like a free for all, so having a list really keeps us in check on why we’re there.

And of course, meal prep for at least 2-3 days of the week. I LOVE Whole Foods’ family meal prep section. I probably buy those once a month, it’s about $27, and lasts for about 3 days. That’s for when we have a busy week, and I know I’m not going to cook that much.

Increase your grocery budget.

That might mean you have to pull from something else, likely your fun fund. But allocating more money towards your meals will help decrease the anxiety that comes with seeing how overbudget you are. If it’s already planned for, it doesn’t hold the same power once it becomes a reality.

Subscribe to see the free budget template added above.

Now, lastly and most importantly,

Have faith that God has you covered

Do what you can, being a good steward and all. But don’t let the prices of groceries convince you that God isn’t going to provide.

Matthew 6:25 said

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?”

He knows our needs. Seek Him, believe in Him, and don’t let inflation steal your peace.

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If you immediately thought ‘conviction’, then yes, you are right. Some of them point out that it’s not about money or lack thereof. They’ve simply reached a point in their journey with God where they view worldly things differently. They want to honor God through stewardship, and certain purchases no longer speak to that, or bring them joy and validation because they now receive that from Him.

In Psalms 16:11, David said, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

So there is nothing that we can buy or do to get that real joy, outside of being in God’s presence. And I feel like that’s their goal now.

But does all luxury bring vanity? Of course not, you can appreciate luxury for its craftsmanship, comfort, or simply the experience. It’s when the item or service brings out a feeling of superiority or necessary fulfillment.

So, when do luxury items or services trigger vanity?

• When your self-worth is attached to that and not God. An example is when losing it or not being able to afford it in that moment affects you internally.

• When you’re buying it to compare. Not because you actually like it, but because someone else you admire has it. The only standard we have is Christ.

• When the brand or experience has to be recognized. You question, “If no one knows it’s worth, is it even worth it?”

• When you acquire what you previously desired, but the satisfaction left so quick that you immediately move on to the next item to fill that void.

Wanting beautiful and expensive things isn’t inherently vain! You can genuinely appreciate a $5,000 handmade purse or watch and couldn’t care less if anyone recognized its value. Because you can also be vain about inexpensive things if the motivation is just about admiration or social placement.

The question is, “If nobody could ever see it, know its price, or know that I own it, would I still want it?”

Whether we acknowledge it or not, luxury is advertised to give off that perception. It emphasizes how an item or service can not only change how we view ourselves but also how others will view us. That’s where vanity comes into play. They’re designed to give off a sense of elevation.

And there are two types of elevation: internal and external.

1. Internal elevation brings you joy and contentment. You appreciate what you’ve bought, and it adds to the world in a positive way. You don’t need it to be seen or known.

2. External elevation is about status change. You buy it knowing that you will be perceived differently, maybe not intentionally, but it’s just a fact. And this is where it can get uncomfortable. Because I can tell myself I’m buying it because I appreciate the quality, and maybe I do. But I know there’s a part of me that likes what it communicates. What it says about my taste, my salary, my class.

Galatians 1:10 said

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

If I’m being recognized for anything, it’s how much light I bring into the world, not what I buy in the world. How scary is it for someone to see me, and the only thing they leave with is that I value luxury goods and services?

So I started to ask myself: Why buy Prada for its name if I can support a local purse maker who also supports their community? Why lease a luxury car if I can buy a very nice one at half the price? Being able to afford something doesn’t automatically mean it’s wise for me to spend money on it. Wealth isn’t given to us exclusively for personal consumption, but to bless those who need it.

The deeper issue isn’t luxury itself, but what it’s really costing you. How much of your time trying to acquire it takes away from your time with God? Are you using your blessings to only bless yourself or others, as the Bible instructs us to do?

This is just a reflection piece to ask ourselves: What am I striving for? Is it earthly possessions, status, or influence? Is it pleasing to God or just to me?

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That’s simple. Understanding it can help you save money and avoid unnecessary interest. More importantly, understanding your view on debt overall can help you make better financial decisions.

Our Beliefs

It’s kind of hard to make changes in your behavior if you don’t know where they stem from. This applies to everything from spending habits to how we think about debt. So before we look at the numbers, let’s look at what we believe.

What’s your earliest memory of debt? Maybe it was picking up the house phone and a collector was on the other line, maybe it was experiencing someone getting their car repossessed, or maybe it wasn’t talked about at all.

Whatever it was, what did that experience teach you about debt?

In my case, my mom did not believe in the use of credit cards. So not only did I avoid them until about 25, but I also didn’t understand how they worked. From her perspective, it’s better to avoid than get trapped, which, looking back, I highly agree. I do wish we had learned why. So by the time I did get one, I knew better than to allow a balance to rollover or to accept limit increases that I didn’t need. Why pay interest on something you don’t actually need?

Here are some common beliefs and how we usually respond:

SOMETHING TO AVOID AT ALL COSTS

→ Fear of borrowing, zero knowledge on it.

SOMETHING TO HIDE

→ Avoid looking at it.

A NECESSARY TOOL (TO USE AND ABUSE)

→ Use it whether you actually need it or not, it’s a free for all.

Reflection: What belief about debt might be influencing your decisions today?

The Bible emphasizes the burden of debt, not to scare us into avoidance, but to let us know that it’s something we can absolutely overcome with wisdom and awareness.

How Interest Works

Knowing what it is and how it can work against us just as much as it works for us.

Interest = the cost of borrowing money. When we borrow from a lender, we pay them what we owe plus the interest they charge. When we put our money into a HYSA, the bank is borrowing it, hence why they pay us interest.

If you read my last article,

then you know the amount we’re approved for (the principal) is not the amount we pay back (principal + interest). That’s because the payment is usually split into two: principal and interest.

If you’ve ever wondered why a $500 payment on a $8000 loan doesn’t automatically reduce your current loan balance to $7500, it’s because a portion of that payment went towards interest. The good news is that as our principal decreases, so does the amount we pay in interest. So even small additional payments towards the principal-only can save you money on interest over time.

But it goes deeper than that. When learning about loans, we have to understand that the duration of the loan matters just as much as the interest. You can have two people with the same loan balance, same interest rate, and one pays more interest simply because their loan balance remained outstanding for longer.

A lower monthly payment doesn’t automatically mean a cheaper loan. You’re just paying more interest over time.

Your Current Debt

Another phase of awareness is knowing exactly where you stand. Your balances, your rates, your minimums. Asking yourself questions like:

• What percentage of my debt came from needs vs wants?

• Do I regret those decisions? If yes, why? If not, why?

I think being honest with yourself is the only way to break the chains of debt. Lying to ourselves is how we stay in the cycle, and that applies to anything, really.

So let’s see if you were paying attention:

I’ll share the answers this weekend!

If you haven’t already sign up for Breaking The Chains of Debt, it’s a 4-week workshop, our next session is August 19th via Google Meet.

Hope to see you there!

Galatians 5:1

The good news is that Jesus already paid our debt. So not only should we avoid spiritual bondage, but I think financial bondage can put us in situations that affect us spiritually as well.

Proverbs 22:26–27
, Proverbs 22:7
, Proverbs 6:1–5


These warn against the burden of debt, guaranteeing or taking on financial obligations you can’t repay. Debt should be looked at with caution because it can become a form of slavery.

Luke 14:28–30
, Proverbs 21:5


These encourage wise planning before taking on financial obligations. Count the cost, plan diligently. Don’t sign a loan or increase a credit without making sure you can follow through.

Romans 13:7–8
, Psalm 37:21


These are reminders to pay your debts, because the only thing we should owe is love. But also, it’s the righteous thing to do.

Deuteronomy 28:43–44
2, Kings 4:1–7
, Nehemiah 5:1–13
, Matthew 18:23–35


These caution about the burden of debt and the consequences it can bring. Debt can lead to hardship, loss of freedom, and exploitation. Jesus also uses an example to emphasize our need for God’s mercy and forgiveness.

The Bible is full of parables and principles regarding financial stewardship. I highly recommend getting a study Bible to read more about them.

Breaking The Chains of Debt: Free Workshop 🔗

I genuinely believe that’s why the Bible emphasizes the rich rule over the poor and the borrower is a slave to the lender in Proverbs 22:7. Once you sign a loan agreement, the power dynamic changes; you no longer have full control or even access to all of your income because a portion is legally obligated to someone else. That type of obligation can create financial stress and affect your peace of mind, decision making, and the flexibility you have with your money.

“So what am I to do, Bobbie?”

Of course, I’m not telling you to stop getting loans for important and necessary purchases that can’t be bought with cash. I'm simply saying know exactly what you’re signing up for. Although the documents are in front of you, people rarely understand the full scope of what they’re agreeing to.

For example, it’s important to understand:

• The loan amount you’re approved for is the principal and does not include interest.

• The duration of your loan either increases or decreases the interest you’ll pay.

• During the beginning of most loans, a large portion of each payment goes towards the interest vs reducing the principal balance.

The question isn’t just “Can I afford this payment?”

It’s “How much of my income will this actually take over time?”

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I was recently speaking to a friend about their auto loan. Over the past 3 years, she’s paid roughly $15,000 on a $22,500 loan. But it’s no shocker that her loan balance is $13,000. Not because she missed payments, or has terrible credit, her credit was well above the 700’s. It’s because of the length of her loan and the fact that the majority of the interest was paid off at the beginning. So although she’s paid $15k, only about $9,500 actually went towards the original loan amount. She didn’t do anything “wrong”, this is simply how amortized loans work.

“Okay. But what do I do, Bobbie????”

Outside of your minimal payment, start paying any extra money you have towards the principal only. I’ll go deeper into this in our 4-week workshop.

But for now, we discuss the difference between the interest and the principal. The principal is the amount you borrowed, and the interest is the fee the lender is charging you to borrow. When you make a loan payment, it’s split into two buckets. Most people assume that because they owe $1000, a $100 payment lowers the balance to $900, but most likely the balance is only lowered to $940 because $60 of that $100 payment went straight to interest. This is only an exmaple of course.

At the early stages of your loan, auto or mortgage, most of the monthly payments go towards the interest, it’s called front-loaded interest. It’s basically a way for lenders to collect their interest as soon as possible. That’s why even small payments towards the principal can help you pay less in interest because the amount you pay in interest is based solely on the current principal at that time.

Breaking the chains of debt starts with awareness. Not just knowing who you owe in your head, but having a list of every debt, the balance, the interest rate, the monthly payment, and the total interest paid. Seeing it can motivate you to pay it off quicker. Because every dollar spent on interest is a dollar that can’t be used to build an emergency fund, invest in your future, tithe the way you want, or anything else you would do if you had it.

The reality is that interest doesn’t care about our feelings. So don’t let the emotion of feeling behind or regretful stop you from focusing on the numbers and building a plan. Understanding how interest works allows you to be more strategic. One of the ways to break the chains of debt is to shrink the amount you’re being charged to borrow.

The goal isn’t just getting out of debt. It’s creating the margin to better steward our income for the kingdom, vs allowing it to be consumed by lenders.

If you’re on a debt free journey and could use a little help, sign up for my free 4-week live workshop. Get more of this, plus templates and strategies you can start applying immediately. Register here.

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Over the past seven years, I’ve learned about net worth, profit margins, investing, risk, compound interest, the reality that someone making $60,000 and someone making $600,000 can both live check to check, etc. But with all the financial literacy, I learned very little about stewardship, or how scarcity and abundance mindsets affect our financial decisions.

I realized I was taught how to build wealth, but not necessarily how to steward it.

Knowing the mechanisms of financial planning isn’t the same as developing habits and principles that sustain it: living below your means, avoiding lifestyle creep, giving generously, managing debt, or even having an abundance mindset.

After taking a biblical finance course, I started to view money as something to steward vs something to consume. Below are stewardship principles I pulled from the Bible and the scriptures that inspired them. These rewired the way I looked at money, not just from a spending standpoint but what it represents for me.

Spending & Discipline

There will be plenty of opportunities to earn and save, but it takes a wise person to do both. A fool spends every dime he gets and consumes every resource he has. (Inspired by Proverbs 21:20)

Loving or yearning for money will eventually put you in ungodly places. Just like striving for it can take you further from God and create nothing but sorrow. You can make money without it becoming a priority. (Inspired by 1 Timothy 6:10)

Giving & Generosity

If you choose to give in small amounts then expect to reap small amounts and vice versa. But whatever you give, it should be because you genuinely want to, not for gain, obligation, or guilt. (Inspired by 2 Corinthians 9:6-7)

Choosing to not tithe in the house of the Lord is like robbing him, since it belongs to him anyway. Feeding His house leads to blessings for the Kingdom and us. (Inspired by Malachi 3:10)

Stewarding & Budgeting

Pay constant and careful attention to your resources. Actively manage and track them, because riches don’t last forever and you need endurance. (Inspired by Proverbs 27:23-24)

It’s important to count the full cost of any project before you start it, but what’s equally important is knowing exactly what you’re getting yourself into. Can you sustain what you’re planning? (Inspired by Luke 14:28)

Credit and Debt

Avoid a lifestyle that keeps you poor and the rich richer. That includes taking on unnecessary debt, becoming a servant to lenders by working just to pay them back more than what they gave. (Inspired by Proverbs 22:7)

Simply pay back any debt you take on. The only thing you should owe is love. (Inspired by Romans 13:8)

Planning and Saving

Take advantage of the overflow seasons. Instead of reacting to a slow season or expenses you know are coming, be proactive and set aside reserves in advance. (Inspired by Proverbs 6:6-8)

Investing and Multiplying

Don’t let the fear stop you from putting your resources to work. Neglecting or even storing them away for safety can cause you to lose them. (Inspired by Matthew 25:25-28)

Even though you don’t have full control over the results or benefits of something you plant or invest in, have faith. Don’t move with a scarcity mindset. (Inspired by Ecclesiastes 11:6)

There are so many more parables and principles in the Bible. I encourage you to read the word for yourself. It can help you to be the best version of yourself, not just financially but spiritually as well.

One day we’ll all have to give an account for how we managed our money, time, and opportunities. Which area of stewardship would you be proud to talk about? And which one feels like it needs improvement?

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Our view of money begins with a simple biblical truth:

"The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; The world, and they that dwell therein." - Psalm 24:1 (KJV)

Because everything belongs to God, we are not owners, we are stewards. Our role is to faithfully manage what He has trusted us with.

Biblical stewardship extends beyond money though. We have three primary resources that play a huge part in our life.

Time:

• Time literally equals money, how you spend your days can affect your income.

• Wasting time can cause you to miss opportunities to not only serve but earn.

• Time spent wisely in things like education or skills can increase your income.

• Spending time with God in the Word and through prayer helps with wise financial decisions.

Talent:

• The skills and abilities God blessed you with can generate income.

• Developing those talents can not only increase your resources but God’s kingdom.

• Sometimes using your talents to serve others opens financial opportunities.

• Neglecting your talents can limit your financial earnings and your ability to spread the gospel the way God intended.

Treasure:

• Money is simply a tool for Kingdom impact.

• How you handle money reveals your priorities and values.

• Managing your resources shows God you can handle more.

Stewardship Habits to Practice

Daily

Surrender Prayer (5 minutes)

Begin each day by surrendering your resources to God:

“Lord, today I acknowledge that everything I have belongs to You. Guide my financial decisions. Help me use Your resources wisely. Amen.”

The Pause Before Purchase

Before any non-essential purchase, ask three questions:

• Is this a need or a want?

• Am I honoring God with this decision?

• Could this money be better used elsewhere?

Practice Immediate Generosity

When you see a need and have the means, act immediately. Don’t overthink generosity.

Weekly

Sunday Review (15 minutes)

• Review last week’s spending.

• Evaluate alignment with your values.

• Plan for the week ahead.

• Celebrate wise decisions.

• Pray for guidance in the week ahead.

Monthly

Financial Meeting with God

Set aside 30 minutes each month to:

• Review your budget and spending.

• Assess your giving and generosity.

• Evaluate progress toward financial goals.

• Ask God for wisdom about upcoming financial decisions.

• Adjust your budget as needed.

Don't try to implement all of these at once. Pick one habit to start this week, master it, then add another. Sustainable change comes through small, consistent steps.

The mindset of a steward is one of accountability, responsibility, wise temporary management, and eternal perspective. It recognizes that everything we have belongs to God, so we faithfully manage what God has trusted us with, knowing that we will one day give an account.

The question is not what portion belongs to God, but how faithfully we will manage everything He has placed in our hands.

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The decision to pay my car off early saved me almost $2,000 in interest. Granted, I had already given them about $5,200. That’s just how auto loans work, they take the interest from the jump, so the earlier you attack the principal, the more you actually keep in your pocket.

When I dove into biblical stewardship, this scripture hit me hard.

The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. (Proverbs 22:7)

It was my motivation the whole way through. I didn’t want to be tied down to a payment any longer than I had to be. Nor did I want interest eating money that could’ve gone toward something that actually builds my life. So I made a plan, and I stuck to it. Here’s how I did it, but to make it easier on you, I created a template.

First thing’s first, find your loan documents.

Write down:

• original financed amount

• original interest rate

• expected loan term

• expected interest to pay

This gives you an idea of what you’re expected to pay if you stick to the minimum payments. It’s your starting point.

The second step, find your current numbers.

Write down:

• current loan balance

• total payments made

• total interest paid

If your lender doesn’t provide total interest paid, you can manually calculate an estimate:

(Original loan − Current balance) − Total payments made = Interest paid so far

Example: Original loan: $30,000 Current balance: $22,000

Payments made so far: $10,000

Interest paid = ($30,000 − $22,000) − $10,000 = $2,000

Now you know exactly where you stand.

Let’s make a payoff plan... aka sacrifices.

• Review your budget and cut back on nonessential spending (dining out, subscriptions, shopping, entertainment).

• Put every dollar you save toward principal only payments.

• Apply bonuses, tax refunds, and other extra income directly to the principal.

Stay consistent, not extreme. Small, steady extra payments add up and help you pay off your loan faster while reducing interest.

I put together a basic auto loan payoff sheet so you can run your own numbers using the exact steps above. Click here to use the sheet.

That’s really it. No secret hack. Just numbers on sheet and a decision to sacrifice for a season so you’re not paying any more interest than you need to.

If you need further help, don’t hesitate to reach out!

At the bare minimum, at least encourage them to save it???

Now let’s be real, there are two types of scammers and boosters, one makes the law while the other is considered breaking the law. Whether you’re a lawmaker scheming and scamming or a regular person learning from the man, is it really something to be proud of?

Y’all already know how I feel about the lack of stewardship and the rise of consumerism right now, and this song screams it.

But this isn’t necessarily about the effects of celebrities and influencers encouraging self sabotaging behavior. This is about the power of music and whether or not you believe what you consume subconsciously influences you. Especially when it comes to how you spend your money.

From what I gather, half of us are disappointed by what we give our energy to, while the other half feels like it’s not that deep. In my opinion, it’s always that deep, specifically when the platform reaches millions of children, teens, and young adults who don’t know who they are yet.

Does that mean people hear the song and start scamming or boosting? Absolutely not. But what happens the next time they get a bonus or tax refund? After hearing Spend Dat over and over, does it make “spending it all” feel just a little more normal? That’s the kind of influence I’m talking about.

If music can inspire worship, bring us to tears, and affect our emotions, why do we assume it has no influence when it's glorifying consumerism, crime, or reckless living?

Here are a few reasons why it’s important to be careful with what you consume.

1. Stewardship applies to more than money.

It also applies to our time. Just as we think carefully about what we eat because it affects our bodies, the same goes for what we regularly listen to or watch.

2. What we repeatedly consume eventually becomes our normal.

Even if I consciously reject the words, hearing them frequently still has an effect. I’ve never intentionally listened to “Spend Dat,” yet the phrase gets stuck in my head from short clips on socials. If repetition can make a lyric stick without effort, it’s reasonable to ask whether hearing it could overtime encourage spending.

3. Young people are easily influenced by our culture.

Children, teens, and young adults are still finding themselves. When they look to me, I’d like to present examples of behavior that are admirable and worthy of respect. My nephews know I don’t want to hear certain music, especially if it’s demeaning or extremely vulgar. This is something I prefer to demonstrate rather than just preach.

5. My attention is valuable.

Since becoming more intentional about where I give my attention, I choose to look for deeper meaning, asking whether the trends I’m supporting align with the kind of culture I want to help create. If my views or streams are how they get paid, the idea of making someone even richer for adding absolutely no value to my community doesn’t sit well with me.

We’re boosting a song that glorifies a version of us that I have no desire to give more life to. It encourages young men and women to partake in or accept certain characteristics and choices that not only put their financial freedom at risk but their lives as well.

Now I’m not saying that music brainwashes people, but repeated messages create norms, desires, and values over time. We have to be realistic when it comes to cultural influence and how it plays a part in everyday consumerism and stewardship.

But hey, who am I. What do you think? Can repeated music influence how we normalize spending and status over time, or is it really not that deep?

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For all the freedom and knowledge we have in America, more than 50% of adults lack basic financial literacy. That means half of us don’t understand how compound interest works or something as simple as what a high-yield savings account is. Now, this is no shade to us Americans specifically, but to a system we so proudly participate in.

What I’ve learned in wealth management is that the more dependent your life is on one paycheck, one employer, or one economic system, the less flexibility you have.

Financial literacy helps reduce that dependence.

So how can we make sure we don’t continue to live a life they built for us, just working to live and living to work? How do we make sure we’re financially literate enough to make smarter financial decisions, no matter what American Dream we’re trying to achieve? For me, the answer started with learning how money actually works.

Here are the things I realized I needed before I could really create my own version:

Learn basic, everyday financial terms.

I’ve added topics with links you can learn from:

• Debt

• Taxes

• Compound growth

• Inflation

• Credit

• Investing

Obviously, this isn’t something you learn overnight, but take time to educate yourself little by little.

Understand the difference between income and wealth.

A high income with high expenses can leave anyone financially stressed. Just as much, an average income with strong savings and investments can create more flexibility.

Ask questions like:

• If I stopped working today, how long could I maintain my lifestyle?

• What percentage of my monthly expenses is covered by investments instead of my labor?

• Am I buying things that impress others or things that increase my future freedom?

Add to financial independence before updating your lifestyle.

With each raise, you have a choice: increase your spending or increase your savings and investments.

If every raise immediately becomes a nicer apartment, newer car, or more subscriptions, your dependence on your job pretty much stays the same.

Spend intentionally.

We are constantly exposed to advertising. Financial stewardship asks questions like:

• Does this purchase align with my values?

• Will I still care about this a year from now?

• Is this solving a real problem or an emotional one?

The goal isn’t to avoid spending, but to spend intentionally and not because you were influenced to.

Define your own version of success.

The traditional American Dream emphasizes:

• Big house

• New car

• Long career

• More things

But your version might look like:

• Time with family

• Flexible work

• Less debt

• Financial peace

• The freedom to say no

Financial literacy isn’t about being able to make more or retire early, but understanding how money affects your choices.

Which version of the American Dream are you currently subscribing to? Lifelong debt, overconsumption, hustle culture, or debt-free living, contentment, living within your means, and being rested?

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The name of this Bible study references the story about Lot’s wife.

In Genesis 19, the angels guided Lot, his wife, and children out of the city that God was about to destroy and said, “17 … Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed … 26 But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt.”

Basically, Lot’s wife died for looking back at a place she’d known her whole life, her family, her friends, her past. She chose to look back and lost her life for it.

I wonder if there’s a reason she wasn’t given a name. All we know her as is Lot’s wife. She’s actually only ever mentioned again in the Bible as a warning. In Luke 17:32, Jesus tells us to “Remember Lot’s wife.” It’s as if her entire existence disappeared when she chose to look back. The scariest part is that we, too, know the consequences of looking back, but by the grace of God, we have mercy.

One of the most difficult things I’ve ever experienced was leaving a space where I was financially well off. It’s easy to leave a space that’s no good for you, that doesn’t pay you well, or doesn’t teach you anything. But to leave a place where you feel comfortable and content, that is hard.

It was hard.

In fact, it was so difficult that I kept going back.

But what is faith if not following the road Jesus is leading you down? Can I really say I trust Him if I continue holding onto the one thing that’s keeping me from my purpose simply because it’s keeping my bills paid or feeding my ego?

Sometimes obedience requires letting go of something that isn’t sinful; it just isn’t where God is calling you anymore.

There are a few things you can do to financially prepare for a hard transition that doesn’t make sense on paper but that you’re feeling convicted to do.

Save whatever you can.

Not because you doubt that God will provide, but because He’s already provided you with the opportunity to prepare. Conviction often comes long before the transition itself, so take that time to save. Preferably 6 months worth of living expenses.

Pay off as much debt as you can.

The less you have to pay every month, the more freedom you’ll have to obey when God calls you to move. If there’s one thing I’m happy not to worry about in this season, it’s my car note. It’s the first thing I paid off when I realized where God was taking me.

Review your budget and reduce expenses.

Start living below your means. Cancel subscriptions you don’t use, eat at home more often, and get comfortable with simplicity. It makes the transition less overwhelming. Remember, this isn’t forever; it’s for now.

Continue to tithe what’s on your heart to give.

Whether you’re currently being convicted to leave a career, a relationship, or your business, remember to talk to God and read the Word consistently. Seek guidance from a believer who is full of wisdom, someone who can pray with you, ask hard questions, and help you discern whether it's God's voice or your own emotions.

Looking back may feel safe because it’s familiar. But the places God calls us to leave behind can never compare to the places He’s preparing for us.

So don’t look back.

I did this knowing that stewardship is something I’ll continue to pursue well into old age. I understood that as I grow and change, as will my availability, my finances, my circumstances, and I will have to maintain stewardship over whatever I am blessed with.

What I forgot to take into consideration is how easy it is to lose sight of what you want most when what you want now is constantly competing for your attention.

Stewardship isn’t just about managing money. It’s also about managing time, attention, and discipline. The reality is that the way I spend my attention today will eventually influence the way I spend my money tomorrow.

And as easy as it is to blame the phones, I’d rather blame my discipline. I enjoy looking at inspirational content and keeping up with long-distance friends through socials, but a rabbit hole always seems to find me.

This isn’t a rant about social media. It’s a reminder that if I’m not intentional, I can spend more time consuming someone else’s life, getting ideas for mine instead of sticking to the one I thought of for myself.

The sad truth is that the more worldly goals you want and obtain, the more you have to work to maintain them.

One of the most important things I learned while working with individuals’ finances is that no matter how much you earn, if your lifestyle consumes most of your income, you’re essentially working just to maintain that lifestyle. This is really why I dove into stewardship, because it reminds me that what I’m striving for can’t be bought.

Here are four things I’m doing to build a lifestyle where my present happiness doesn’t sabotage my future freedom.

1. Get extremely clear on my “What I Want Most”

Asking:

• What does financial freedom look like? Is it early retirement or career flexibility?

• What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind?

2. Be intentional about how I spend my time and attention

Because what gets my attention eventually gets my money, energy, and focus.

This means:

• Spending less time consuming and more time creating

• Limiting mindless scrolling

• Being selective about the content I allow to influence me

• Regularly asking, “Is this helping me build the life I say I want?”

3. Be more intentional about the “Life Ratio” rule

A simple structure we use:

• 50–60% of income on needs

• 20–30% of income on our future

• 10–20% of income on lifestyle/fun

4. Update lifestyle spending

Instead of random spending or spontaneous date nights, be more intentional.

Spend on:

• Intentionally planned travel

• Meaningful hobbies

• Planned date nights

• Experiences that align with our values

Cut back on:

• Unused subscriptions

• Impulsive dining out

I know there will be seasons where I do this better than others. There will be times I get distracted or choose convenience over discipline. But for me, stewardship was never about perfection. It’s about consistently returning to what matters most.

That means building a life that gives me the freedom to serve, provide, and leave a legacy that outlives me. And every time I choose what I want most over what I want now, I take another step toward that future.

Stewardship is simply choosing, again and again, not to sacrifice what matters most for what feels good in the moment.

…

This is about learning your partner’s thoughts on money and how the two of you plan to become ‘one’ financially.

You think you know someone, then money gets involved, habits are addressed, and feelings get hurt. Because money habits are created from an early age and it takes practice and willingness to learn new ones.

Unfortunately, you don't fully know how someone manages money until you're sharing expenses and responsibilities. It’s easy for someone to portray healthy money habits or showcase how much they make, but a salary doesn’t automatically equal security or being financially responsible. It’s not about how much you make, it’s about how much you spend and preserve.

Before we worry about our partners, it’s important to figure out our own money habits. Ask yourself these four questions and really consider if you like the answers.

1. How important is stewardship to you? Do you practice it well enough for your partner to see and be inspired by it?

2. Do you spend more or less when going through stressful times, aka do you shop for emotional support, or spend more when you’re feeling a way?

3. How likely are you to spend your last or use a credit card on non-essentials because you know a check is hitting your account in a few days?

4. How many of your credit cards roll over with a balance higher than 20% utilization, and does your partner’s answer matter to you?

One of the things I had to come to terms with is that no matter how perfect I thought my money habits were, there were still things I needed to unlearn.

So how do I know if my partner has good money habits?

Start by figuring out what type of attitude they have towards money. There are so many different perspectives when it comes to it. You have the “spend it and get it right back” mentality, the “you can’t take it with you,” and the “money grows on trees”. Those perspectives often come with little interest in budgeting or tracking spending. But then there are also those who speak from a place of scarcity instead of abundance, which can be just as dangerous.

No matter what your financial mentality is, keeping track of your money is a must. This is why wealthy people have accountants, financial advisors, and other financial professionals. They understand that one of the worst things you can do with your money is ignore it.

Once you’ve identified your own habits and gained a better understanding of your partner’s relationship with money, the next step is having intentional conversations.

Here are a few things we talked about regularly before marriage and will continue to discuss now that we’re combining incomes officially.

Combined budget
What’s coming in and what’s going out? How are we paying our combined bills? Is our contribution based on how much we make?

Career changes & financial impact
Are there any possible career opportunities or changes coming in the next five years? How will that impact us financially?

Debt & payoff plans
Is anyone carrying debt into the marriage? How much is it, and is there a plan to pay it off? Does that debt affect the goals you have planned together?

Savings, retirement, emergency funds
How much does each of you have saved for emergencies and retirement? Will you start a joint savings or investment account? Do you agree on what’s considered an emergency?

Long-term goals
Discuss personal and joint long-term goals. Have they changed? What’s the savings plan for those goals?

To be clear, talking about finances is so much more than just how much one makes or spends. It’s also about whether their character changes when they receive an increase in income. Does that new financial status change the way they treat you or move in public? What’s their reaction when funds are low or neither of you are in a place you want to be? Are they supportive or dismissive? How do they react when you get a raise or your income surpasses theirs? Does being low on funds motivate them to hustle harder or the complete opposite?

More importantly, how strongly do they believe God can pull you out of whatever financial situation you’re in?

My favorite topic gets into the nitty gritty. What type of financial household will you have? Are you doing 50/50, and what exactly does that look like? I birth one child and you birth the second? Just kidding, but really... Will you have joint accounts that cover all bills? Will you separately fund the account with a fixed amount every paycheck? For example, the husband contributes 70% of their income to the joint account and his wife contributes 30%. That account is used for bills, dates, etc., while her income primarily focuses on saving, retirement, vacations, and other long-term goals.

If your partner has debt and you don’t, are you taking into consideration how much they’re able to contribute since paying off debt should be a priority? If your partner does have high debt, do you expect them to stop using their credit cards until they’re paid off? Do you or your partner believe in using credit cards at all? Do you think they harm or benefit you financially?

Once you become one, what happens with your personal savings? Let’s say you have an emergency fund and your partner doesn’t. Are you pulling from your savings to pay for their emergency? Are you expecting them to pay it back? The answers seem obvious, but you generally never know how someone feels until you ask them.

The goal isn’t necessarily to find someone whose financial habits match yours. You just want someone willing to communicate, compromise, and work toward shared goals. We can have different money personalities as long as there’s transparency and accountability.

Since financial issues are a leading cause of divorce, it’s important to have these conversations as early as possible. And financial issues don’t always mean low funds. It could be spending habits, how money makes them treat you or others, or a lack of ambition or willingness to change.

I believe stewardship matters in all aspects of your life and marriage, but especially when it comes to finances. Money has a way of exposing habits, insecurities, strengths, weaknesses, and areas where we still need to grow. That’s why I’m actively implementing two things in our marriage and life overall: keeping God at the center of everything, not money or worldly things, and replacing stress and doubt with trust and faithfulness.

These conversations aren't meant to judge your partner or look for perfection. They're meant to help you understand how they think, communicate, and handle pressure. Because eventually, it won’t be your bills and their bills or your goals and their goals. It’ll be ours.

As I said earlier, you think you know someone, then money gets involved. That’s exactly why these conversations should happen whether you’re engaged, dating to marry, or already married. It’s never too late.

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Nowadays, when someone asks you to come outside, it usually means spending money at a bar or restaurant.

Dave Ramsey said, “If you’re struggling financially, the only time you should see the inside of a restaurant is if you’re working there.” That stuck with me, not just because it’s funny, but because it highlights something I’ve noticed: small habits around spending, even harmless ones like dining out, can limit how much life you can enjoy later.

We’re living in a time where earnings are not keeping up with inflation. Some of us are saving more than we consume, while others do the opposite. Especially in Houston, we don’t have many third spaces, we’re either brunching, going to happy hour, or hitting yet another lounge that just opened. I’m writing this not to shame us, but to bring awareness to the reality of our current economic climate. If something were to happen that affected most of our income, are we financially ready to deal with it, or are we stuck in habits that hinder us instead of building us up?

And just to be clear, the phrases “financially struggling” and “financially unstable” can apply to anyone, whether you’re making $50k or $150k, because it’s not about how much you make; it’s about how much you spend. A lot of people confuse having a decent salary with financial stability, but the reality is about cash flow and flexibility.

My sister and I were having a conversation about the spending habits that tend to come with financial stress. The more stressed you are about money, the more frivolously you seem to spend, almost as if we’re all just escaping, trying to step outside of our reality for a moment.

I know nothing about psychology, but I do know how money works. It flows to those who treat it well. Like the first half of Luke 16:10 says, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.”

So the question becomes:
Do I dine out or shop now for the immediate emotional payoff, or do I intentionally build financial stability, even if that means skipping discretionary expenses for a year or two?

Discretionary expenses include dining out, leisure activities, shopping, entertainment, travel, services, subscriptions, etc.

I’ve created over 100 financial reports, and the one thing they all have in common is money flowing in and money flowing out. My favorite reports were the ones that maintained steady discretionary expenses no matter how much income increased.

The reports with red flags were the ones where discretionary expenses didn’t decrease as income declined, but instead increased. We all do it, but how do we stop?

None of this is about stupidity or lack of discipline. Sometimes spending is a way of coping, and we need to find healthier ways to cope that don’t hurt our financial future. That means learning to live within our means, especially when our resources are limited.

So… how do you actually live within your means?

Define “enough” first

The average person budgets like this:

“Here’s my income → Here are my bills → Whatever’s left is fun.”

That’s how you end up spending more on discretionary expenses than you expected or planned.

• Decide what will create financial stability in this season (debt reduction, emergency fund, savings target).

• Get specific on that first.

• Then whatever’s left over can go to fun.

“Income → Bills → Emergency Fund and/or Debt → Fun.”

A lot of credit card debt is now tied to everyday and/or emergency expenses, highlighting that consumers are getting into debt for basic essentials. Of course, we have inflation to blame, but it’s important to know if you’re living off of debt because you don’t make enough income or because of lifestyle choices.

Set a non-negotiable discretionary budget

• Set a hard cap for dining out, shopping, subscriptions, etc.

• Treat it like rent. If your rent increased, you’d be livid. Think of it that way.

• If it runs out, there’s no “just this once.” You’ve already decided on the limit, stick to it.

Without a cap on your discretionary expenses, it’s easy to overspend and later rely on credit cards for everyday needs or emergencies. Perfection isn’t the goals either; consistency is.

Change your definition of “being outside”

You don’t need to spend money to have fun, and it’s okay to emphasize that to your friends.

• Walks, workouts, free events, hosting movie night instead of going out.

• Create one intentional outing instead of four impulsive ones.

Being outside shouldn’t be expensive, and if it is, you have to ask yourself if you’re willing to make an adjustment to how you move.

Create a timeline, it’s not your whole life

People fail at living within their means because they think it’s forever. But we have free will, and we should use it more often.

“For the next 6 to 12 months, I’m cutting back on all subscriptions and dining out to build an emergency savings fund.”

That makes it easier to skip immediate payoffs because you have something bigger to look forward to.

Track your behavior, as well as the numbers

• When do I overspend?

• Who am I with?

• What emotion usually comes first: stress, boredom, celebration?

Money is usually attached to habits. Find yours for clarity.

Unfortunately, when you’re financially struggling, cutting back can feel like another punch to the face. Because who wants their social life to decline along with their money? But keeping up with appearances or expectations can put you in a deeper hole than where you started.

The one thing you can control is how you manage your money, not just how you react to it. So the real question is: is being “outside” something you can afford in this season? If the answer is no, that’s okay. This isn’t your whole life, it’s a temporary choice to build stability now so you can enjoy more later.

†

Sometimes you just gotta pray for people.

As a minority who grew up in an area that dealt with the fallout of injustice from generations ago, it’s impossible for me to pretend that those around me, even years from now, will not be affected by this.

Whether you have family or friends who support the current face of government, I think it’s important to remember that we are all just followers. Some of us are followers of Christ; some of us are followers of whatever benefits us most. Either way, nothing comes from fighting one another. The more we separate, the harder it is to stand together for basic rights.

And what’s right? That’s where the confusion lies, because we all think we’re right. I believe being right or wrong is meaningless. It’s whether or not you have empathy, enough empathy to agree that every single being on this planet has basic rights. In a world full of conflict, division, and different beliefs, especially political and social, our response should be empathy and prayer vs. judgment or fighting. This isn't about proving who’s right or wrong.

I’ve wrestled with my feelings toward those I know personally who still support the current president and his actions. But God told me to simply pray for them, to pray that their eyes open to the reality of what’s unfolding and that they never have to feel the pain or fear of losing someone they love just to understand others. Pray that those around us have the strength and willingness to think outside of themselves and step into someone else’s shoes. Because the truth is, we need to reach people’s hearts, not just their minds. We need to reach their souls, and yes, they do still have one.

If you truly believe in the power of prayer, say this prayer with me.

I hope this prayer reaches those who need it most. May God give us all the strength to endure what’s ahead, and keep our families and friends safe from the evils of this world.

When my faith gets aligned, my finances usually follow.
It’s not perfect. It’s not instant.
But it’s consistent.

That’s why I needed a reset that isn’t about hitting goals, but about alignment. I wanted to gain clarity and intentionally show up as who I say I am.

So I’m inviting you to join me on this challenge, using the daily tracker and our community chat as a space to check in, be honest, and encourage each other.

Financing w/ Faith 40-Day Challenge

I’ve seen over and over, in my life and with clients, that money isn’t just budgets and bank balances. It’s emotional. It’s spiritual. It reflects what we value, how we identify ourselves, and how well we steward.

And I truly believe:

These 40 days can shift how we think about money.

Here are the rules for this challenge, made specifically to help build a habit of stewardship and awareness.

Starting August 1st

1. Read the Word. Even a verse counts. This helps us stay connected.

2. Write to God at night.
   One word, one sentence, or a paragraph. Be honest about where you are that day and what you needed help with. Including God in our emotions and thoughts can change how we handle them. It shifts questions from:

“What do I need to do in order to afford this?”
to
“Do I really need this and does it honor God?”

3. Cut unnecessary spending. That includes shopping, convenience fees, whether it’s only $5 or $50. Your transactions for the next 40 days should cover basic needs only.

4. Pause unused subscriptions. You might realize you can live without them.

5. No substances. Clear mind, clear spirit.

6. No fast food, no take out. Dining out when it’s intentional and purposeful only.

These aren’t rules to shame us. This is about noticing where money quietly leaks out… and choosing differently.

Weekly: Saving With Intention

• Transfer $10–$30 weekly into your high-yield savings account.

Any dollar you thought about spending but didn’t, transfer that to your savings. Not because the dollar amount matters but because the habit is powerful.
If it sits in checking, it usually disappears. In savings, it becomes seed.

Reflection (Sunday nights)

Take a breath and ask:

• What did I do well?

• Where did I slip?

• Where do I need God’s help?

Give yourself grace. Growth happens through honesty, not perfection.

If you’re joining me, drop a comment or reply “I’m in.”

I also created a daily check-in tracker you can use throughout the challenge. Feel free to print this, but you will have to manually enter the totals on the Summary tab.

Each day you’ll pause, notice your choices, and at the end of the week write a short reflection to stay grounded in why you’re doing this. It’s meant to keep you aware and honest, not overwhelmed. Use it as a tool to track your progress, talk to God through the hard moments, and see how consistent small steps start to add up over time.

The goal is to build habits that stick long after the challenge ends. Here’s to alignment, discipline, and trusting God with our hearts and our finances.

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