Financial Struggles Help Us Grow

Everyone deals with financial setbacks from time to time.  Money doesn't buy happiness - -but the lack of it can sure bring a lot of stress.  My father, talking about the lean years of the Great Depression, said they pinched pennies so tight, Abe Lincon hollered!  George Washington has hollered in my hands a few times!

When facing hard times financially, it pays to remember these are the only times we have.  We need to keep a proper perspective. Here are some important reminders as we face adversity:

1. God is far bigger than the problem.
If a financial crisis looms like a mountain, remember -- God is the mountain mover! There's no challenge too great for the Almighty. There is not one situation beyond His ability. Instead of telling God how big your problem is, tell your problem how big God is!

2. Hard times teach us wisdom.
Difficult days force us to stop and evaluate where we are, what we're doing, and why we're doing it. Nobody becomes wise with ease. It takes trouble to grow in patience and understanding.

3. The valleys are where we grow.
We rejoice on the mountaintops -- but we grow in the valley. Hardship forges character and makes us better people. The sweetest people I've ever met are those who have gone through the most difficult experiences.

4. There's always a reason to be thankful.
If we look for blessings in the darkest days, we will find them. Thanksgiving brings a special joy and peace.

5. We are never poor if we are rich in love.
In loving relationships, we find true wealth. Money can buy things, but not true happiness.

6. It's only money.
When the budget is tight, just remind yourself, "It's only money." Life is much more than money. We must never let money troubles take our focus off the more important matters of life.  Why get so uptight over little green pieces of paper with pictures of dead presidents on them?

7. We're blessed to be a blessing.
One major purpose of money is to help and encourage others.  If you happen to have a little extra, then. . .
a) be thankful
b)  be generous
b) be a blessing.

8) There's always hope at the end of the day.
No matter what happens, you'll get through it. The sun will rise tomorrow. When all is said and done, all will be well -- and only the eternal things will remain.

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