The Joys and Pains of Budgeting

Budgeting hurts so good. I am so thankful to have Luke in my life ~ his leadership, accountability, and sweet partnership. As we have sat down over the past few days to manage our finances a few things have become apparent to me:

1) We are blessed beyond anything I would have ever imagined at this point in our lives. God is good. He has brought people into our lives to aid us and teach us how to be good managers of our money. Not that we always follow the right way though ;)

2) I am so thankful for Luke and his giving heart. He would love to give all of our money away :) I still struggle with wanting to support people in addition to our tithe from gross. I want to say I am willing to give all I have to the kingdom, but I really debate that mentally ~ my thoughts turn to, "but how will we support ourselves if times get tough," and " we already live to our lowest means...how can we give any more away?" I think I may need to reread The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn again. My heart so easily goes cold.

3) I am pretty sure coupons have turned to my demise! Luke pointed out that it's like a hobby or game to me to see how much I can save in a grocery trip...it really has! I have saved up to $118 through Kroger's savings, coupons, and bonus coupons. However, I have lost site of the bottom line. So, the new plan of action is to only get what we need and not even focus on coupons. I tend to stock up on things because they are good deal, which totally throws off a budget if you are looking at by month. But here's the question~ when should you spring for that good deal because it may not come along the next month!? I could give many examples and proof, which seems arguable by Luke. Again, I'm easily tempted. The degreed marketing employee has fell into her own trap! However, can I brag that I do use coupons to my benefit some times? I have actually made money on some products (i.e. toothpaste & dog treats), but my coupon and grocery list organization could be another blog ;)

4) Through the mulling of thoughts and challenging conversation on money, I have been humbled and reminded to live every day in submission to Christ. My daily time with HIM determines how I spend my money AND time! It truly transforms my day to live in the light of eternity rather than my selfish wants.

More thoughts on this later...I just wanted to share the surface of my heart for now. And I wanted to see what you all thought out there about support above your tithe. I need encouragement! I think I will be reading in the gospel of Luke today.