Deanna and I have been trying really hard to plan our finances. We have been doing a great job to tell our money where to go, instead of the money just flying out of the window. God had really been blessing us. The reason for that is because we decided to get serious about our management of the resources He has given us. We went about that by a couple of steps:
- We recognized we needed help.
- We asked God for His wisdom and guidance.
- We then sought out Godly, Biblical advice from someone who is passionate about seeing people live the way God intended them free from debt, Mr. Joe Sangl.
- We followed the plan and were committed to it.
Through the steps above we have been able to accomplish so much. With that said, in that time, we have paid off her car, built up our emergency fund, and now are trying to build our 6 months expenses in the event of a major problem.
Yesterday, I got some real disheartening news. My car is in the shop and needs some major work. At first I was taking it in for a general tune up, but it needed some major things done to it. As I was on the phone getting the news and the expected cost, I was just getting really mad.
Honestly, I was getting mad at God. “Why would God allow this to happen when I am doing exactly what He wants me to do with managing the resources he has given me. Why now? Why me?”
Then it hit me! I have had my car for 5 years and the only other problem we have had, other than routine maintenance, was to replace a water pump. Not bad! So my perspective of the problem quickly changed. It changed from madness to joy and thankfulness. For 5 years God has provided with a car that has run like a champ, no problem, no major issues, no nothing…but the first time I have a problem, I blame God. Go figure…
God knew that I could not financially handle any major issues with my car at that time, so he protected me. Then he provided me with the finances to be able to handle the problem and I get mad?!?! God, I am sorry for my immaturity in this situation. Thank you for changing my perspective of the problem and helping me realize that it was not really a problem at all, but a blessing.
Next time, something hits you out of left field, is God really punishing you or has He been protecting you and providing for you along the way? Just a thought, as I know that was the case for me and I needed to change my perspective of the problem!
Alden we found you! Great new site…..I have enjoyed reading all that is going on in your life…next time you are in GVEGAS…give us a call…….
During a time of setback, my wife once emailed me this: Live each day as though all God’s promises are in place & being fulfilled now.
“Next time, something hits you out of left field, is God really punishing you or has He been protecting you and providing for you along the way? Just a thought, as I know that was the case for me and I needed to change my perspective of the problem!”
What an awesome way of thinking!!!