Stewardship
We are called to be stewards of all that God has given us29 total reviews
Comment from Tom Horonzy
The adage "watch your p's and q's" surely could capture the essence of your message too. I gave up the ghost paying for teevee in 1987. Snce, I have saved over $40,000 in monthly fees. I never owned a new car since a purchase in '73, until fifteen years after retiring. I cannot imagine the savings accumulated from that plan. Good write T.B.
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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The adage "watch your p's and q's" surely could capture the essence of your message too. I gave up the ghost paying for teevee in 1987. Snce, I have saved over $40,000 in monthly fees. I never owned a new car since a purchase in '73, until fifteen years after retiring. I cannot imagine the savings accumulated from that plan. Good write T.B.
Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Tom,
You're a wise man. I'm afraid that I'm still tethered to the TV, but it comes as part of my internet service. I know that I could save even more if I would discipline myself. I subscribe to several on-line, free money saving sites that constantly give suggestions on how to save on all manner of things. We have so much in this country, and while we may be the most generous country in the world in terms of aiding those in need, nonetheless, the word does say, to whom much is given, much is required. Always good to hear from you Tom. Have a blessed day.
Tom
Comment from damommy
I agree with everything you said. We're too greedy and want more and more. Thank goodness, I have no debts. House and car are paid for in cash, and I'm able to live comfortably. There's no better feeling than being able to help someone else.
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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I agree with everything you said. We're too greedy and want more and more. Thank goodness, I have no debts. House and car are paid for in cash, and I'm able to live comfortably. There's no better feeling than being able to help someone else.
Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Yvonne,
isn't that the truth! I think we're never closer to the spirit of God than when we are sharing with others in need. I'm so glad to hear that you don't have to worry about making payments. Too many people are just a pay check away from being homeless. Thanks for the great review gal. Have a blessed day.
Tom
Comment from Pam Lonsdale
My husband is a financial whiz and has often pointed out things like $100 on coffee each month when he counsels others on saving money. I tried to get him to teach an adult education class at the local college because it would be worth taking for a lot of folks.
I agree with you here, Tom. Most of us spend well beyond our means, and one of these days we're going to get stuck.
Like you, I don't mind helping my neighbor. But when the neighbor's mistakes continue, I get tired of bailing them out.
Good write, my friend.
Pam
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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My husband is a financial whiz and has often pointed out things like $100 on coffee each month when he counsels others on saving money. I tried to get him to teach an adult education class at the local college because it would be worth taking for a lot of folks.
I agree with you here, Tom. Most of us spend well beyond our means, and one of these days we're going to get stuck.
Like you, I don't mind helping my neighbor. But when the neighbor's mistakes continue, I get tired of bailing them out.
Good write, my friend.
Pam
Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Pam,
As Americans, we've developed habits that on their own might not be that big of a deal, but accumulated, they can amount to thousands every year. Dave Ramsey has a course titled Financial Peace University. I never took it myself, because I was already well on the way to being debt free, but for people who find themselves mired in debt, it might be a good investment. You're right, I don't believe in enabling anyone. If they aren't willing to do what it takes to help themselves, my patience runs thin. Things like natural disasters or extreme medical bills though can overwhelm a person, and then is the time to extend the hand of friendship and give something tangible as well as our prayers. Thanks so much for the wonderful comments gal. Have a blessed day.
P. S. I hope your husband is recovering well and that you're both at peace and getting the rest you need.
Tom
Comment from Dolly'sPoems
A fine write Tom and I hung on your every word here. We are over indulgent in this society and we spend our money on unnecessary things because we think we need them, but it is all about want, not need. I have been guilty of this in the past, a new handbag I didn't need or a pair of shoes when I know I can live without those things. The most important thing is health to me, both mental and physical, without that I feel lost.
I love that you mentioned a garage sale as every year I sell my unwanted stuff on ebay. I have a clear out in the spring. This is a good way of getting rid of things and also clawing some money back. Being organised, neat and tidy also helps with out finances. Paying the important creditors and only spending if there is some money left. We all take on debt occasionally and we should never go into debt for luxury items, only things that are essential. Often the things we own can last for a very long time, don't replace anything that still has life left in it.
Perhaps a check list would help at the end of your write to help others to keep on the straight and narrow?
A valued post Tom, thank you for offering your words of wisdom here.
Love Dolly x
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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A fine write Tom and I hung on your every word here. We are over indulgent in this society and we spend our money on unnecessary things because we think we need them, but it is all about want, not need. I have been guilty of this in the past, a new handbag I didn't need or a pair of shoes when I know I can live without those things. The most important thing is health to me, both mental and physical, without that I feel lost.
I love that you mentioned a garage sale as every year I sell my unwanted stuff on ebay. I have a clear out in the spring. This is a good way of getting rid of things and also clawing some money back. Being organised, neat and tidy also helps with out finances. Paying the important creditors and only spending if there is some money left. We all take on debt occasionally and we should never go into debt for luxury items, only things that are essential. Often the things we own can last for a very long time, don't replace anything that still has life left in it.
Perhaps a check list would help at the end of your write to help others to keep on the straight and narrow?
A valued post Tom, thank you for offering your words of wisdom here.
Love Dolly x
Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Dolly,
Thanks so much for your generous review and thoughtful comments. As you had mentioned in your poem, there are organizations that will help people who are in debt. In America, there is a Christian fellow named Dave Ramsey who has a pod cast or blog and a radio show who answers people's questions about finances. He also has a step by step program that helps people get out of debt titled Financial Peace University. One of the first things he advocates is getting rid of credit cards. When we pay cash for everything, we realize the cost right away, instead of at the end of the month when it can be a surprise at how much we spend. Always a delight to hear from you gal. Have a blessed day.
Tom
Comment from royowen
Don't worry what people think Tom, you were merely giving an honest opinion, and we do our thinking with our pens, I've been muted by a couple of writers because of the thoughtless prejudice. When we write we should think outside the box, not assuage and massage the opinions of others if they are biased in their view, I did no wrong in either case. One will always create enemies, but I'm committed. Well done blessings Roy
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Don't worry what people think Tom, you were merely giving an honest opinion, and we do our thinking with our pens, I've been muted by a couple of writers because of the thoughtless prejudice. When we write we should think outside the box, not assuage and massage the opinions of others if they are biased in their view, I did no wrong in either case. One will always create enemies, but I'm committed. Well done blessings Roy
Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Roy,
thank you for your words of wisdom. You're right my friend, we need to speak the truth regardless of the response. One of my favorite author's / pastors is Dr. Charles Stanley. He always says-
" obey God and leave the consequences to Him." Words of wisdom from an honorable man. Have a blessed day.
Tom
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Amen Tom
Comment from Ida T. Johnson
Before I read this post I saw that it was rather long; and when I read that you were discussing "debt", my eyes almost started to glaze over until I continued reading, and I'm glad I did. No, I don't think you sound self-righteous, just concerned. This post could really stimulate a rather lively debate!. But before I add my one-cent about that, let me 1st praise the literary value of your post. It held my attention throughout. The tone is clearly NOT a rant but a clear, coherent call-to-action re stewardship. Yes, we all are entitled to make our own choices based on our unique situations. Your debt-free situation is a true blessing! Now, before this gets too long, here's my one-cent's worth: unfortunately, there are many valid reasons some people are in debt and/or don't have any savings, eg. minimum wage jobs; no health insurance that can lead to healthcare debt; natural disasters where there's slow or no response for help. Let's face it, you could probably get by using an ice chest if your fridge breaks down, but I'm not sure of any good alternatives for dealing with heart attacks, strokes, massive trauma from car accidents, etc. In closing, this is a well-written piece that evokes strong emotions, and gives us something significant to ponder. Thanks for sharing!
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Before I read this post I saw that it was rather long; and when I read that you were discussing "debt", my eyes almost started to glaze over until I continued reading, and I'm glad I did. No, I don't think you sound self-righteous, just concerned. This post could really stimulate a rather lively debate!. But before I add my one-cent about that, let me 1st praise the literary value of your post. It held my attention throughout. The tone is clearly NOT a rant but a clear, coherent call-to-action re stewardship. Yes, we all are entitled to make our own choices based on our unique situations. Your debt-free situation is a true blessing! Now, before this gets too long, here's my one-cent's worth: unfortunately, there are many valid reasons some people are in debt and/or don't have any savings, eg. minimum wage jobs; no health insurance that can lead to healthcare debt; natural disasters where there's slow or no response for help. Let's face it, you could probably get by using an ice chest if your fridge breaks down, but I'm not sure of any good alternatives for dealing with heart attacks, strokes, massive trauma from car accidents, etc. In closing, this is a well-written piece that evokes strong emotions, and gives us something significant to ponder. Thanks for sharing!
Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Ida,
Thanks so much for your honest comments and excellent review. When I started writing this, I also thought of the reasons why one would find themselves in debt. Medical debt is one of the major reasons people get into trouble. Through no fault of their own, they get strapped with overwhelming medical bills, and the creditors can be relentless in trying to collect. There is a charitable group I support called RIP Medical Debt. They purchase the medical debt of people who can't pay, for a fraction of what is owed, and pay it for them. Of course they can't deal with everyone, but as more people support them, they can do more. I understand about low wages as well. When I moved to town in 1987, I had a job making $8.50 an hour. I had a wife and seven children. Living in Alaska is expensive, but we did without some things, like a vehicle for a number of years, and I was fortunate enough to be able to supplement my income with hunting and fishing, which I understand not everyone can or would want to do. We also did things like collect aluminum and my wife did baby sitting in the home. Of course when one finds themselves in a situation like a natural disaster or a fire or with a hospital bill, we need to count on others for assistance, and that is part of being a good steward, so that we can help when it's needed. We never know when we might be the one in need. The word mentions that to whom much is given, much is required. I've been truly blessed by God, and I get great pleasure in being used by Him to bless others. It's the most fun we can have with money. Thanks again for the wonderful comments. Have a blessed day.
Tom
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You're a wealth of information- pun intended! I've heard of organizations buying medical debt. I might just check it out. Thanks again!
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You're funny! Thank you!!!
Comment from Allezw2
Preachy and minimalist as it is, perhaps a more accurate term would be "... how you spend it."
It's not hard to live within your means. It's called fiscal discipline.
Even so, cautionary bits such as yours are still evocative of good sense, too often lacking.
Why buy simply because it would be fun; is fun to have; make a great gift; when it places that burden on the individual?
Rainy day awareness and readiness is qualified.
Live long and write will,
Fantasist
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Preachy and minimalist as it is, perhaps a more accurate term would be "... how you spend it."
It's not hard to live within your means. It's called fiscal discipline.
Even so, cautionary bits such as yours are still evocative of good sense, too often lacking.
Why buy simply because it would be fun; is fun to have; make a great gift; when it places that burden on the individual?
Rainy day awareness and readiness is qualified.
Live long and write will,
Fantasist
Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Allezw2,
thanks for your thoughtful comments. You're right, fiscal discipline makes good sense, not only for yourself, but for others as well. For a certainty, rainy days will come, and it's so much better to be prepared than not. Have a blessed day.
Tom
Comment from CrystieCookie999
This is a good non-fiction opinion essay based on personal experience. I liked reading it. We could probably all do better to stick to a budget. In fact, I sat down today and started a new one for this year. Nice post.
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reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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This is a good non-fiction opinion essay based on personal experience. I liked reading it. We could probably all do better to stick to a budget. In fact, I sat down today and started a new one for this year. Nice post.
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Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Crystie,
thanks so much for the fine review and comments. Having a budget is really important, in fact I think that's one of the first things that financial guru Dave Ramsey mentions as a way for people to have financial security. We know that some bills are always going to occur. Its the unexpected that catches many people off guard. I've heard it said that we need to pay ourselves first- putting aside a certain percentage of our pay into a savings account. I think that's wisdom. However, I think we need to give back to God first. While tithing is an old testament requirement, I think the benefits it pays are enormous. In the book of Malachi, God challenges the people of Israel to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse and see if He won't bless them to the point of overflowing. In my own life I've experienced this. You aren't buying God's favor with the tithes, just acknowledging that He will provide all of our needs and then some. Have a blessed day gal.
Tom
Comment from Wendy G
I agree. We tend to live quite frugally and are in the fortunate position of having enough to live off and enough to share. So often people are very poor because they spend on gambling, lotteries, cigarettes and alcohol, and these cost a fortune. First priority should be the necessities for a healthy life and seeing that their children have educational and medical expenses met. I am happy to share with those experiencing disasters for which they could not prepare, and now find themselves in significant difficulties. I felt you expressed your viewpoint well. Thanks for sharing.
Wendy
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reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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I agree. We tend to live quite frugally and are in the fortunate position of having enough to live off and enough to share. So often people are very poor because they spend on gambling, lotteries, cigarettes and alcohol, and these cost a fortune. First priority should be the necessities for a healthy life and seeing that their children have educational and medical expenses met. I am happy to share with those experiencing disasters for which they could not prepare, and now find themselves in significant difficulties. I felt you expressed your viewpoint well. Thanks for sharing.
Wendy
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Comment Written 20-Feb-2023
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2023
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Hello Wendy,
thanks so much for sharing your views and comments. I believe that as Christians, we're called to be good stewards over what God has placed in our care. Our families are our first priority, and our children learn by the example we set. If we are stingy or greedy, they see and may follow that example. If we are wise stewards and give freely to those in need, they also see and hopefully will follow suit. I believe that God gives us an abundance so that we can take part in the joy of giving and know the feelings that He must feel as He meets the needs of the whole world. Have a blessed day gal.
Tom