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January 20, 2025 3:00 am
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." - Proverbs 21:5
That verse is often used to encourage people to avoid “get rich quick†schemes and other risky investments. However, it also conveys a message about budgeting. Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to discuss why budgeting is a form of worship.
Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and the author of the brand new book, “Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.â€
Why Do People Dislike Budgeting?Many people react negatively to the idea of budgeting. A CNBC article titled "People hate budgeting" spotlighted a financial professional who observed that over 60% of her clients felt as though they were "literally going to suffer" at the mere mention of budgeting. The misconception that budgeting is about reducing spending or losing freedom often drives this aversion. In reality, budgeting is a tool for aligning financial resources with personal and spiritual goals.
Look at King David, for example, during his preparation for building the temple in 1 Chronicles 28–29. David’s detailed planning and joyful devotion in allocating resources for God’s temple exemplify budgeting as an act of worship. He saw his financial planning as a way to serve God and inspire others to do the same. This narrative offers a powerful reminder that budgeting can be a means of glorifying God and building His kingdom.
Budgeting as IntentionalityBudgeting also unlocks the potential for generosity. As Ron Blue has said, “Giving breaks the power money can have over us.†By setting financial priorities, we can intentionally allocate resources to support others and further God’s work.Â
William Wilberforce, a British politician, philanthropist, and movement leader to abolish the slave trade, once said, “By careful management, I should be able to give at least one-quarter of my income to the poor.†This kind of strategic generosity reflects a heart fully surrendered to God.
A Transformative View of BudgetingBudgeting, when seen through the lens of worship, shifts from being a dreaded task to a joyful act of devotion. It enables us to live intentionally, reflect God’s character, and manage His resources wisely. By embracing this perspective, we not only honor God but also experience the freedom, joy, and resilience that come from living as faithful stewards.
If you’d like to dive deeper into this topic, check out Dr. Shane Enete’s article, Budgeting as Worship, in the quarterly publication Faithful Steward. You can receive this resource by becoming a partner at FaithFi.com/give.
On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.