In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has. Proverbs 21:20, NIV
“IRAs are not a Biblical concept. They didn’t have to save for retirement in the Bible,” my husband said, pressing his glasses on his nose. “Biblical seniors did something else instead of moving to assisted-living facilities. I’ve heard the cost to live in assisted living is $3,000 to $5,000 a month or even higher. With the costs of health care and health insurance going up, the cost of living always on the rise, and the question of social security being there when we reach retirement age, saving is essential.”
“They did reach retirement age in the Bible,” I replied, thinking of how long some of the old-timers lived. “After all, Noah was 500-years-old when he became the father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth. When he was 600, flood waters came on the earth. Abram was eighty-six when Hagar bore Ishmael. Sarah, Abram’s wife lived to be 127.”
Things in biblical times didn’t cost as much as they do now. It seemed like they lived within their means. They didn’t have what we do—our big houses, cars, utility bills, cell phones, and entertainment expenses. Instead of buying groceries, they grew food and hunted for meat. The cost of sending children to college, paying medical bills, and buying insurance didn’t exist.
We sure have complicated our lives. Then there’s tithing ten percent and donating to organizations. It’s expensive to be a Christian.
We can save, simplify, spend less, and spend wisely. Our garages and basements hold many things to sell. Cut back on entertainment and eating out. Start a budget by writing down everything you spend, then look for what you can do without. Pay off your credit cards, and use cash. Your bills will be less, and who doesn’t want that.
Saving, giving, tithing . . . we really are challenged these days. Are your decisions wise or are bills devouring you? Trust God to guide your financial decision making. Money isn’t a curse when you spend and save it wisely.
Deedre Martz, lives in Louisville, CO and writes freelance articles and devotionals. She is also an office manager, technical writer, and editor, and enjoys walking dogs for the humane society. She has a bachelor’s degree in Business Finance and is a recent graduate of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University.
Read Deedre’s devotions.
