When King David desired to build the Temple, God told him that he would not be permitted to because he was a man of war and had blood on his hands. Instead of getting upset, David did what he could do – he prepared the groundwork for his son, Solomon, to do the building. David set his affection on the house of his God. His attitude was that everything belonged to God. He knew that both riches and honor came from God.

John Wesley said, “When the possessor of heaven and earth brought you into being, and placed you in this world, he placed you not as an owner, but as a steward. As such, he entrusted you for a season with goods of various kinds. But the sole property of these still rest in Him, nor can ever be alienated from Him, and you are not your own, but His. And such is likewise all you enjoy.”

If you, even with your meager resources, will say, “This is Yours, Lord,” then He will bless you. It is recognizing Him as the One Who owns it all. He will bless you in due time if you are a giver.

The proper attitude is to approach this idea of finance and money with the mindset that you cannot serve God and money, but also that all good, blessing, and wealth comes from Him. He owns us, and we are His stewards.

Today, I want to give you the last five ideas to help you in your personal finance:

1. Be careful with credit cards. They can be a great tool, but you can very quickly get yourself into serious financial trouble with them.
2. Look for great deals. Shop around and look for coupons.
3. Be careful with borrowing. Be very hesitant to borrow money for things that do not appreciate or hold their value.
4. Do your own taxes - unless you don’t have a clue. This can be a great way to save money, but if you don’t know what you are doing, find someone to help you.
5. Be generous. Be a person who does not hesitate to give, and God will bless that attitude.

Remember these two truths: lay up your treasure in Heaven, and God loves a cheerful giver.