Luke 14:28-30

“But don’t begin until you count the cost.  For who would begin construction of a building without first getting estimates and then checking to see if he has enough money to pay the bills?  Otherwise he might complete only the foundation before running out of funds.  And then how everyone would laugh!  ‘See that fellow there?’ they would mock.  ‘He started that building and ran out of money before it was finished!’” (TLB).

 

Counting the cost, or budgeting, is scriptural.  Proverbs 27:23 says, “Know well the condition of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds” (NASB).  Scriptural guidelines for budgeting can be found throughout God’s Word.  For instance, if you don’t happen to have any herds and flocks, God is probably saying, “Know well the condition of your clothing budget, your housing budget and your food budget.”

 

Like it or not, money is an important part of our lives.  While it is true that “money cannot buy happiness,” it is also true that when it comes to spending more than we earn, the lack of money can contribute to much unhappiness.  If properly managed, money can enhance family relationships and can be a springboard for family discussions that will help the entire family pull together for common goals.  Not properly managed, money can potentially become a real curse.

 

Counting the cost will help you become debt free.  If your goal is to achieve and maintain a debt-free position and to use your resources in a manner that is right, you need a written budget.  Trying to go without one is like trying to find your way out of a wilderness area without a map — you don’t know where you are, where you are going or what lies ahead.  You might get lucky and get rescued, you might wander around a long time before you get out, or you might not make it out at all.

 

 

Your thoughts on this subject?  Your comments appreciated!

Content © Rich Brott, 2011

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