What if you could begin the journey to financial freedom today? No more living paycheck to paycheck. No more feeling like there’s more month than money.

Here’s a little secret: the issue often isn’t the money itself, but how we manage it. That means we can do something about it!

Let’s clear something up: money itself isn’t good or bad. It’s just a tool that can be used in different ways. Most of us don’t actually have money problems; we have discipline problems. But here’s the good news—God has a lot to say about money, and He wants us to have it! He wants us to enjoy life and use our resources to help others. By fixing our financial habits, we can do more of the good things we aspire to.

Here are some practical steps to get started.

Credit cards aren’t an extension of our paychecks—they’re just another tool. While credit can be super handy, it can also lead to trouble if we’re not careful.

Tip 1: Only use the credit cards when you’ve got the money in your bank account to pay them off.

Tip 2: Pay off the credit card balances ASAP. Don’t let those payments pile up.

Here’s a fun trick: literally freeze your credit cards. Yep, put them in a container of water and stick it in the freezer. This way, when we’re tempted to splurge on something we don’t need, we’ll have some time to think it over while our card thaws. Emergencies happen, but for everyday temptations, this can really help.

Let’s talk savings. How can we get that first $1000 in the bank? Start by plugging the leaks in the budget. Those small, everyday expenses add up quickly. For instance, grabbing coffee every day on the way to work can cost $5 or more. That’s $25 a week or $100 a month. Imagine what that adds up to over a year!

The Bible gives us a little wisdom here, too: “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards” (Song of Solomon 2:15). Those small expenses can really add up if we’re not careful. Start by taking a close look at where the money is going and make the necessary cuts. Instant gratification rarely leads to long-term satisfaction. By making these adjustments, it’s amazing how quickly we can save that $1000.

Many people live paycheck to paycheck because of the tendency to buy bigger homes, cars, or high-end clothes to impress others. Romans 13:8 advises us to owe nothing except love to others. This approach helps us live out our dreams without financial strain. Focus on getting out of debt and avoid purchasing anything that increases the debt.

God wants us to have more than enough, not just the bare minimum. Proverbs 22:7 reminds us that “the borrower is a slave to the lender.” Living with a mindset of constant debt keeps us from experiencing true freedom. God wants us to be free from financial bondage.

Here’s a fun challenge: find money you already have! Evaluate the current expenses and identify unnecessary costs. That gym membership that’s never been used? Cancel it. It’s always possible to sign up again later. Review all those streaming services and subscriptions—do you really need six different providers? Choose the favorites and let go of the rest.

Proverbs 21:17 warns us that loving pleasure can lead to poverty. Our culture’s obsession with instant gratification can often lead us into unnecessary debt. Spending money we don’t have on things we don’t need to impress people we don’t even know isn’t wise. The quickest way to climb out of debt is to stop digging a deeper hole.

Create a long-term financial plan that works. Trust God to provide and guide you. When we’re faithful with little, God sees that we can be trusted with more. Breaking the cycle of wasteful spending is essential.

But remember, creating a plan is just the first step. Execution is where the power happens. Start small by setting realistic goals and celebrating progress along the way. Maybe it’s cooking more meals at home instead of dining out, or setting up automatic transfers to your savings account.

These little steps add up to big changes over time. Stay committed, stay focused, and keep the bigger picture in sight—financial freedom and the peace of mind that comes with it.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to seek support from your community. Share your financial goals with trusted friends or family members who can offer encouragement and accountability. Sometimes, just knowing someone else is cheering us on can make all the difference.

When there’s a deal on shirts for $3 each, ask yourself if you truly like those three shirts or if you’d prefer one $9 shirt you really love. Sometimes, it’s better to invest in quality over quantity. This shift in mindset can lead to better financial decisions and ultimately more satisfaction. Of course, be mindful to use wisdom and not make unnecessary splurges.

Challenge any negative thoughts by focusing on your goals and the steps needed to reach them. Positive affirmations and a supportive community can help reinforce your self-worth and keep you motivated.

Before making a purchase, question if it aligns with those financial goals and if it’s something genuinely needed. Continual learning about personal finance, budgeting, and investing is empowering to make wise financial decisions.

Have fun with DIY science experiments using household items. Check out some local resources at your library or head to the vast world of science videos online. You’ll be able to teach science safety while encouraging curiosity. Try connecting experiments to Bible stories, like creating a mini Red Sea that splits in half by using water and cornstarch and share what happened from Exodus 14:21-22.

Science experiments can illustrate the importance of trial and error, following instructions, and discovering new things together.

Remember, you’re doing better than you think you are and it won’t always be this way. By making thoughtful choices now, it’s a setup for a brighter, more prosperous future.