Let me ask you a question. Do you think indulging is a bad thing? I think it depends on how and what you indulge in. I’m definitely from the school of thought that if you work hard you deserve to pamper yourself or splurge every now and then.
For years my husband and I sacrificed a lot of things so that we could raise and take care of our kids. During those early years of our marriage, I didn’t realize it then, but we were struggling financially. We had a new baby and I had gone back to college to become a nurse. My husband’s income was the only money coming in. After paying the mortgage, utilities, and basic necessities, there wasn’t much left. Don’t forget home and car repairs. Talk about living paycheck to paycheck.
After I became a nurse and we had two incomes coming in, we were able to save, buy our children saving bonds, and once a year treat our family to a nice vacation. The kids explored their interests by taking singing lessons, art school, tennis lessons, and dance classes. And then there was summer camp and college expenses.
While life was going on, we were learning how to better manage our family’s money and increase our savings. If anyone asks me how we did this I would tell them if they’re a Chrisitian and believe in the bible to faithfully pay your tithes and offerings.
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” – Malachi 3:10
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. – 2 Corinthians 9:7
I’m not suggesting that if you’re not a Christian you won’t be successful at saving. I don’t think that’s true at all. Matter of fact, I know it’s not true. I’m just bearing witness to what’s worked for me and my family.
My husband and I have worked hard for over the last 35 years of our marriage. Our children are grown and out of the house. So now it’s our time to indulge. If you follow me on social media you’ll know that I have a thing for swanky planners and stickers, make up, smell goods (especially Chanel) and handbags. My husband loves his kitchen gadgets, electronics and Invicta watches.
Back to my original question. I’m rephrasing it so I can answer it for myself. Do I think indulging is a bad thing? Absolutely not! As long as I’m giving God His first, the bills are paid and money is in the bank, it’s okay for me to splurge on myself.
Tell me, when was the last time you indulged?
Stay tuned for my next blog post
Until next time,
Suzette
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