Over the next week or two we are going to get into the behind the scenes, nuts and bolts of managing our money.  To start us off, this week we are talking about being good stewards.  I firmly believe in doing the right thing no matter what and being a good steward encompasses that.  There is not a doubt in my mind that God has entrusted each one of us with the things we have and we should steward those things to the very best of our ability.  For me, being a good steward means taking care of what I have (whether that is money or material things); it means using what I have to help others and to serve them; to multiply what I have.  We are blessed to be a blessing and the more we give (as long as we have the right heart/mindset about it) the more we receive. 

A few examples would be:

As soon as your budget allows (meaning you have enough money to cover food, water and shelter) add a category for Tithing first and foremost; then as soon as you get a handle on your bills add a category for Giving.

Take care of your money-think before you buy, spend wisely and don’t waste money.

Take care of the material possessions you have.  Keep the car washed and vacuumed; keep the house/apartment clean and neat; keep the clothes clean and put away; make the most out of what is in your pantry-don’t be wasteful; teach the kids to take care of their toys, games, etc

Probably the number one key to being a better money manager is to be a good steward.  As you are taking care of what you have and using it wisely I think you’ll be surprised at what God does with that!