Proverbs 21:20 (NIV) – “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.”
Devotion
God’s Word encourages us to be wise stewards of the resources He has entrusted to us. Proverbs 21:20 provides a simple yet profound insight into the importance of thoughtful budgeting: “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.”
Budgeting is more than just a financial practice; it’s a reflection of our understanding that all we have ultimately belongs to God. As stewards, we are called to manage our resources in a way that honors Him and furthers His kingdom.
Consider the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. The master entrusted his servants with different amounts of money, expecting them to invest and multiply what they had received. The ones who were faithful in managing their resources wisely were commended, while the one who buried his talent was rebuked.
Similarly, budgeting involves making intentional decisions about how we allocate our time, money, and energy. It’s about prioritizing God’s kingdom values and ensuring that we use our resources in a way that aligns with His purposes.
Practical steps in budgeting our resources include creating a financial plan, setting priorities, and being intentional about saving and giving. As we seek God’s guidance in our financial decisions, we cultivate a heart of stewardship that acknowledges His ownership of all we possess.
Remember, budgeting is not about restriction but about responsible and purposeful management. When we budget wisely, we position ourselves to be more effective stewards, capable of making a positive impact for God’s glory.
Prayer
Gracious Father, thank You for entrusting us with resources to manage. Grant us wisdom as we budget our time, money, and energy. May our decisions reflect our commitment to stewardship, honoring You with every choice we make. Guide us in using our resources to further Your kingdom and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
