Money…we always had it, we never seemed to lack it, and we rarely talked about it.
This is how I describe my family of origin and what I grew up thinking about money.
As we began our married life, I carried that same understanding of money into the early years of starting a family. This presented some challenging life issues and brought us to a point of needing some help from others.
There were some very important lessons about money that were learned during that time. God provided wise counselors in our lives so that we could learn to “seek first his Kingdom and his righteousness.” God used these counselors to graciously show us the error of our ways and provided us with discipline and new financial freedoms. God also blessed us with many things that we did not deserve, and showed us how to bless others and steward what he has so wonderfully provided for us.
One of the hardest things we all face is dealing with pride. It is hard to admit to others when we have made poor choices. It is hard to let others in when we think that we can handle it on our own. It is just plain hard to ask for help even when it seems so obvious that we need the help.
Proverbs speaks over and over about the wisdom that is found in seeking to connect with those that are wiser than us. Following these wise people and learning from them not only helps us, but also grows us so we can help others.
Dealing with money is a progressive journey. We are still growing in our understanding of how to manage it well. We are still seeking to learn from others and are trying to be generous with what God continues to lavish on us.
I would encourage you to seek guidance from others in understanding how money impacts your life. Talk to a close friend who also follows Jesus. Be open with your community group. Seek out a mentor, be a mentor. Let others in and be authentic with others who you trust. Let God show you all that He has in store for you as you seek to honor him with your life and your money.
“Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” Proverbs 4:6,7 (NIV)
Steve Eckert
Care & Outreach Pastor
Steve provides leadership and comprehensive support to all areas of care, outreach, and missions; as he seeks to equip the Calvary family with healthy ministry teams that serve to enhance Calvary’s mission and vision with passion and purpose. Steve is always looking for ways that move our systems in care, missions, and outreach towards greater ministry reach and impact. This often involves networking and partnerships with other services, ministries, and organizations who provide training and equipping that benefit the Calvary family and our community. Steve and his wife Lori have three grown children; Allison, Marcus and Logan. The Eckerts love to travel...especially to see their kids.