Does Your Money Even Like You?
June 5, 2009 by: Dave Ozment
It is easy to assume that you like your money but do you convey that affection through you actions and behaviors? How does your money reciprocate?
Of course there are Biblical Principles at play here. The parable of the talents comes straight to mind. Principles of stewardship and thankfulness are, as well, quick at hand.
The precept here is that a relationship exists between you and your money. And trust me; you want this to be a high quality and lasting relationship.
So stretch with me for a moment. Clearly the parallels are not scientific but the lines are straight enough for license.
For best results with your money:
Treat your money as you would a spouse – with great respect
Treat your money as you would a best friend – enjoy its company
Treat your money as you would a baby – delicately
Treat your money as you would a teenager – know, at all times, where it is and where it is going
Treat your money as you would a father – learn from its patterns
Treat your money as you would a mother – feel its comfort
Treat your money as you would a neighbor – keep an eye out for it
Conversely, if you abuse money or consistently treat it frivolously it will abandon you, and when it goes it will take with it your freedom and security.
If you don’t establish a positive relationship with your money, it will become your master. You will forever chase but never, for long, grasp.
I challenge you to consider your relationship with money. As with all of our human relationships, there is likely room for improvement. The advantage though with money is that it will respond to your affections almost immediately.
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I would add…
Where possible, give some away to those in need before your money makes itself at home in your heart.
I know too many rich, stingy people who will never be truly happy.
You’re right… giving money away causes you to truly embrace what is ultimately more important – helping your fellow man rather than tightly clinched dollars.
I’d caveat that by saying that one should have their house in order before giving away too much money. Having a sound foundation from which to give ensures longevity to the act but it also suggests a course of action for those too comfortable on the receiving lines.
Dave
That goes without saying… you can’t give away what you do not have to give
Very true… not to split hairs…. but after making minimum payments some folks will give freely from their extra or snowball funds rather than set their future foundation.
Thanks for commenting!
Dave
I think you should switch the title of this article to: “Do you even like money?” Some people may read this and realize they don’t have a positive view of money. Money is the root of all evil and that rot. I would have to say this viewpoint will only harm you. Instead of seeing money as a problem, start seeing it as a solution.
I agree…. I look at money as a tool that I can implement in my favor or I can use it to my detriment. Of course no one would consider hitting themselves in the mouth with a hammer – because we understand the nature of the tool. But folks will line up for $500 car payments. I think this is because they do not understand the nature of the tool.
Yeah, money as the root of all evil is a horrible misquote and it reveals a loser mentality. The “love” of money is the root of all evil. That makes a huge difference in the application and ultimate meaning. Having money and treating is well is fine. Falling in love with money with another ballgame.
Thanks for sharing.
Dave