5 minute read 
by Bethany Rees

Saving money doesn’t have to feel like climbing Mount Everest. With a little discipline, some intentional planning, and a healthy dose of faith, you can take control of your finances and start building a more secure future. Let’s dive into a simple, easy-to-follow common sense plan that will have you saving up in no time. 

1. Get on a Written Budget

Ever feel like your money disappears faster than you can say “payday?” That’s because every dollar needs a job, and a written budget is like your financial taskmaster. Write out your monthly income and expenses before the month begins. This is called a zero-based budget, where every dollar is allocated—even if it’s going into savings. 

As Proverbs 21:5 reminds us: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." A budget is your plan for abundance!

2. Know the Difference Between Needs and Wants

This one stings a little, but it’s a game-changer. You’ve got to get real about what you need versus what you want. Here are a few examples:

• Need: Coffee to function like a human being.
  Want: A $6 Starbucks latte every morning.  So brew it at home instead!
• Need: Food to survive.
  Want: Takeout four nights a week. So start meal prepping or packing your lunch.

The reality is, your "wants" are probably some of the biggest culprits draining your hard-earned cash. Prioritizing needs over wants is a cornerstone of financial discipline. Tighten the belt today, and you’ll have room for blessings tomorrow.

Hebrews 13:5 says “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

3. Cancel Unused Subscriptions

Go through your bank statements and cancel anything you’re not using. Gym memberships you haven’t touched since January? Gone. That premium TV streaming service you forgot you signed up for? Bye-bye. These small amounts add up faster than you think.

Proverbs 21:20 reminds us: "Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it." Don’t let your treasure and oil get devoured by services you don’t even use.

4. Create Savings Envelopes for Irregular Expenses

Some expenses only pop up occasionally, like new tires, Christmas gifts, or that dental appointment you’ve been avoiding. These can feel like emergencies if you’re not prepared—but they don’t have to be.

Proverbs 13:11 tells us: “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.”

Start an envelope (or a separate savings account) for these irregular expenses. Here’s the math: if you put just $20 per paycheck into savings, you’ll have $520 saved by the end of the year. That’s a lot less stressful than trying to come up with $500 on the spot when your car decides to rebel.

We started this concept with just three envelopes (grocery, eating out, and entertainment). Now we’re up to 23 envelopes (mostly digital).  I even have an envelope for my book habit. 😅

When the savings is automatic and out of mind until you need it, it grows really fast. I really think the few dollars we deposit every two weeks ends up having baby dollars. 

5. Say No to Debt

Debt is a weight that keeps you from running your financial race freely. Instead of relying on credit cards or loans, do these two essential things: 

• Live on less than you make. 

• Build an emergency fund to cover life’s surprises. 

Proverbs 22:7 warns us: "The borrower is slave to the lender." Break free by committing to living within your means and saving for the things you need.

6. Start Small but Stay Consistent

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a solid savings account. Start with small changes and stick with them. The little sacrifices you make today—like skipping a few takeout meals or shopping sales instead of splurging—will add up over time.

Galatians 6:9 encourages us: "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Keep at it, and the results will come.

Financial Stability Looks Good On You

Saving up doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By budgeting, being mindful of your needs and wants, cutting unnecessary expenses, and saving intentionally, you’ll be on your way to financial stability. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Trust in God’s wisdom and provision, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.

Now go grab that budget planner and start saving up! Your future self you will thank you. 💰

Note: If you would like to learn more about personal finance or getting out of debt, I suggest looking into Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. We have gone through it several times

Know Better. Do Better. Live Better. Save Up!

Rocks before Sand!

Scripture: 

“Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” ~ Proverbs 13:11“

Theme Song:  Don’t follow ABBA’s advice, but enjoy the song 🤣

ABBA - Money, Money, Money (Official Music Video)

References Used:

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.