Finances - Commentary

There are a few things that I pointed out during discussion. In addition to stewardship, believing God will provide, and the need to trust God and be content in our circumstances, there were some other biblical principles presented in relation to our finances.

According to my experience and understanding I believe that the following principles are direct and clear in scripture. They are:
1. You shall practice self-control.
2. You shall give generously.
3. You shall not love money.
4. You shall not covet what others have.
5. You shall give regularly to your church.

Also according to my experience and understanding, I believe that although the following principles are good ones, they are not direct and clear in scripture. They are:
1. You shall have reserve.
2. You shall know your financial condition.
3. You shall not spend more than you make.
4. You shall not buy on credit.
5. You shall not be in debt.

Although some scriptures were given to support these, I don't find them to be directives. Specifically, Romans 13:8, which speaks to not owing anyone anything, does not mean to not borrow. From a study by Beth Moore (on Romans) the wording used in this particular scripture means to not be owing anyone anything - or not to let a debt go unpaid after it's due. There is also an understood principle of not buying frivolously, especially when the money is not there to pay for it. It speaks to paying bills honorably and living frugally and wisely.

Also, Elizabeth George states that having a mortgage on a house (borrowing) is okay because it's an investment, but pretty much doesn't allow for any other borrowing - including for education (sorry, I think it's also an investment) or anything else. I believe that these are things that we have to take to God and get an answer from Him on. If we are stewards of what He has given us, believe Him that He will provide, and are living content, He will guide us when it is appropriate to purchase something on credit out of necessity.

Another point I wanted to be sure to make is that there is nothing in scripture that calls a wife to be in charge of her family's finances. There is also nothing in scripture that calls a husband to be in charge of family finances. It is something that both partners should be involved in, aware of, and should rely on God for direction on who is "in charge." It should be a partnership and an area that through God's guidance, the best plan for each individual family figures out for themselves.