January 19 | Contentment and Saving

The book of Proverbs contains wise sayings and observations from King Solomon and others about how the world works. Solomon considers the character and habits of those who are wise and following after God. He observes how the wise person follows God’s words and treats people well. He notices wise people exercise self-control and don’t burn through all their wealth and possessions. In their agrarian culture, olive oil serves as food, fuel for lights and for cosmetic purposes. Drought, locusts or a hail storm could wipe out a crop and leave a family in trouble. Solomon notes how the wise plan for uncertainty by storing up food and olive oil.

The discipline of saving acts as a safety mechanism for uncertainty. Pastor Jeff Manion reminds us that in the past two decades we’ve faced terrorist attacks, a housing collapse and a pandemic. Saving allows us to breathe the oxygen of financial freedom when these crises hit. We need a plan and a system as we learn to be content with what we already have and save up. Our savings may not feel like much at first. As we work this plan and depend on God again and again and again—our little will grow. Sometimes we may need a godly coach to help us develop a plan and hold us accountable for following through.

As we grow in contentment and saving, we become more like the person God calls us to be. God will develop the fruits of the Spirit in us, which includes self-control. His heart will become our heart. We will reflect his character of love, kindness, goodness and faithfulness in our saving habits.