We got our "economic stimulus package" the other day. As a family of six, ours was quite large. And, as is probably typical for everyone, we've spent it fifteen different ways in our heads over the months of waiting.The politicians wants all of us to pour this money into the consumer market, thus stimulating the economy as a whole (hence the name).
But what is the wisest use of this money? It was earned by us, given to the government in the form of taxes to support the many services provided by the government (some we like and some we don't, but that's the nature of government, isn't it?). And now, for a myriad of reasons, the powers that be (and the Power That Is) have chosen to give this much back to us. But in a way, it's money with strings attached. The whole idea of these checks is for the recipients to spend them on consumer goods and thereby pour billions of dollars into our struggling economy.
Sure, we would love to go out and splurge on ourselves and our family. It would be fun to spend it all on stuff that we wouldn't ordinarily have gotten this year.
But God has given us this money, not the politicians, and He tells us to make wise use of it. We've talked and prayed a lot about it, and have chosen to put the bulk of it towards our family's economy -- paying down the one remaining debt we have aside from our house. This check gets us within spitting distance of paying that debt off completely. And while this doesn't directly benefit the economy as a whole, it sure will make a difference to us! Having that debt paid off will allow us much more flexibility to give more, save more, and purchase a newer handicap-accessible van when the one we're driving now finally dies (every year we pray that God will keep it running one more year, and so far He has!). It is improving our financial health and is a great blessing.
A much smaller percentage of it has been designated our vacation fund for this year. Because our entire summer schedule was reorganized for us when everyone got sick, we have had to cancel our vacation plans. (Note to self: don't forget to cancel all the hotel reservations!) We will spend much less by staying closer to home and the kids' physicians (they were concerned about us going so far with Little Boy not having his surgery yet), and yet still have some much-needed family rest time. And, incidentally, that portion of the money will go into the local economy.
How are you using your extra money? Do you need it to make ends meet? Then praise God for providing. Do you need to reduce your debt and improve your family's economy? What a great way to plump up your debt snowball!
But if this money is merely frosting on the cake for you, would you prayerfully consider donating some or all of it to charity? In this challenging economy, many charities are receiving significantly lower donations and struggling to serve the needy. In addition, missionaries abroad are suffering from the dollar's decreased value (their monthly support is decreased by as much as 30% -- imagine getting 30% less in your paycheck every month!). If God has blessed you beyond your needs, please consider passing this blessing on to others who have already given up much to honor Him among the neediest in the world.
What other ways have you come up with to honor God with this money?
