HELP FOR THE FAMILY/MARRIAGE

Conclusion of How to Control Spending

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Rethink your view of possessions.  Happiness does not depend o having the latest things.  After all, Jesus said:  "Even when a person has an abundance, his life does not result from the things he possesses."  (Luke 12:15)  Often, your spending habits indicate whether you believe those words. -Bible principle: 1 Timothy6:8.

Make adjustments.  "Things like cable TV and going out to eat may sound affordable at first, but they can hurt financially in the long run," says Aaron, who has been  married  for two years.  "We had to learn to say no to some things in order to live within our means."

Key Scriptures

* "Become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another." -Ephesians 4:32.

* "Who of you wanting to build a tower does not first sit down and calculate the expense?" -Luke 14:28. 

* "Having  food and clothing, we will be content." - 1 Timothy 6:8.

Micah and Megan

"Even if one person in a marriage handles the finances and pays the bills, both should be fully informed about their financial status. Communication goes a long way in preventing problems.

David and Nataleine

"Plan ahead.  Don't assume that all the money you have in the bank is available to spend.  If you don't keep money in reserve, you'll never be prepared for emergencies such as car repairs."

Next time:Is Money Your Master or Your Servant? 

From the jw.org publications