Summary: Handling finances God’s way is the only way. This is part two in a four part series.

Where do you stand?

We need to understand that God is in control of EVERY event!

"At the end of the seven years, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked to heaven. I was given my mind back and I blessed the High God, thanking and glorifying God, who lives forever. "His sovereign rule lasts and lasts, his kingdom never declines and falls. Life on this earth doesn’t add up to much, but God’s heavenly army keeps everything going. No one can interrupt his work, no one can call his rule into question.”

Daniel 4:34-35 MSG

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.” Romans 8:28 NLT

The LORD PROMISES to provide for our NEEDS!

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” Matthew 6:33 NLT

Our basic problem is that we don’t TRUST God because we don’t KNOW God. We tend to SHRINK Him down to our own human abilities and limitations.

“God can do anything, you know--far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, His Spirit deeply and gently within us.” Ephesians 3:20 MSG

DEBT is poor planning for future expenses. Many times we get into debt before THINKING and PRAYING.

A word about BANKRUPTCY…

“The wicked borrows and does not pay back, but the righteous is gracious and gives.” Psalms 37:21 NASB

DEBT is…

D OLLARS you don’t have!

E XPENSES beyond your income!

B ECOMING a slave to your debtor!

T EMPTATION to sin even more!

S ERVING the wrong master!

**************************************************************************************

The PAYOFF Plan:

P RAY for God to give you wisdom and direction in getting out of debt.

A VOID getting deeper into debt.

CUT UP the credit cards you have. Don’t go SHOPPING.

Y IELD daily your life and possessions to God.

O RDER your debts by amount and interest. Set up a spending plan.

The spending plan should include SAVING at least $1000 for future emergencies, GIVING a percentage to God to further His Kingdom, SPENDING for food, entertainment, etc.

F OLLOW the spending and payment plans you have set up.

F IND creative ways to spend less and make more money.

SELL the stuff you don’t NEED, cut back on CABLE, get a SECOND job, MOVE to a less expensive home and stop SPOILING your children and TEACH them the same principles you have learned. Remember, you REAP what you SOW.

This is a radical change for many of you, but remember what Paul tells us in Romans 12:1-2…

It’s not about MY will, but GOD’S will!

Listen to this message online at www.truehopecf.org