Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #6 — Create A Budget

Picture: Counsel #6 — Create A Budget CMH 56.1

Taking control of your money starts with understanding where it goes. Imagine your income is like a pie. Each slice represents what you spend your money on. A budget helps you decide how big each slice should be, making sure there's enough for the essentials (tithe, housing, food, bills) before you indulge in the extras (new clothes, tools, or concerts). CMH 56.2

There are plenty of ways to create a budget. You can use an app, a spreadsheet, or even a simple notebook. The key is to track your income and expenses for a month to see where your money goes. Then, you can set realistic goals and allocate your money accordingly. Creating a budget is taking control of your finances, so you can achieve your financial goals and feel more confident about your future.^[60] CMH 56.3

“And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season?” Luke 12:42 NKV CMH 56.4

“You ought to be careful that your expenses do not exceed your income. Bind about your wants.” Ellen White in The Adventist Home, p. 375 CMH 56.5

Reflect: Ask yourself if you really need something before you buy it. Could you borrow it, find it cheaper elsewhere or do without it altogether? Explore the possibility of being content with less. CMH 56.6