By C.J. Lloyd, May 31, 2024

While the Bible may not explicitly state that diligence leads to wise planning in those exact words, it does contain principles and teachings that suggest a strong connection between diligence and wise planning. The concept of diligence encompasses qualities such as hard work, perseverance, and careful attention to detail; all are essential components of effective planning. Building upon the wisdom of Proverbs, we return to delve deeper into biblical budgeting. A budget is simply a plan for your income and expenditures. As referenced last week, we are reminded, “The plans of the diligent certainly lead to advantage, But everyone who is in a hurry certainly comes to poverty” (Proverbs 21:5 NASB20).  

Diligence and planning are referenced together because you cannot have one without the other to achieve true effectiveness. As Solomon mentions in Proverbs, “Know well the condition of your flocks and pay attention to your herds” (Proverbs 27:23 NASB20). For example, if we are to create a budget but never review our expenditures to see if we are correctly executing said budget, then we are not paying attention to the “herds” we have been blessed with. Monitoring our blessings with diligence helps us avoid living beyond our means and can set us up for success. For instance, an emergency fund is a way to prepare ourselves before unexpected expenses arise. Once an emergency fund is set aside, we can use any abundance God has blessed us with as a resource, not worrying about unexpected setbacks. 

Formulating a budget and consistently reviewing it represent acts of stewardship. Merriam-Webster defines stewardship as “the conducting, supervising, or managing of something; especiallythe careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care.” God continually provides us, His followers, with resources to accomplish His purposes.  He entrusts us with managing those resources and the responsibility to use them in ways that will bring Him glory. 

Here are three ways we can glorify God with the resources He entrusts to us:

1. Seek God’s guidance – We should invite God into our financial decision-making process and seek His guidance and wisdom in how to best use the resources He has entrusted to us (James 1:5). 

2. Generosity – Being generous with our entrusted resources, freely sharing what we have with others in need, and contributing to the work of God’s kingdom (2 Corinthians 9:11). 

3. Integrity – Conducting our financial affairs honestly and avoiding dishonest gain or exploitation (Proverbs 11:1).  

I would be remiss if I did not mention the importance of interdependence in budgeting and financial planning. While society encourages independence, God reminds us to be interdependent with our fellow believers. (Proverbs 11:14), (Proverbs 15:22), and (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). 

This week, I encourage you to seek counsel in financial matters and every aspect of your life. By humbly accepting godly guidance from people who offer support and encouragement, we enrich our journey and foster growth. Remember the value of your interdependent Christian community and the wisdom we share; may our lives be characterized by openness to learning and collaboration, which leads to deeper connections and personal development in every aspect of our lives.

Below are some resources to assist in getting started with budgeting and stewardship:

1. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University:
   • Website: Ramsey Solutions
2. Crown Financial Ministries:
   • Website: Crown Financial Ministries
3. Compass—Finances God’s Way:
   • Website: Compass – Finances God’s Way