TOGETHER IN HOLY MACRO-MONEY PART ONE

Together in Holy Macro-money? Holy Macaroni? Oh! Holy Matrimony!

Before discussing 'Holy Macro-money,' let's discuss matrimony which is defined as, 'the act or state of being married.' It comes from the Latin word for mother. Matrimony is not to be confused with acrimony – bitterness or ill natured animosity, especially in speech or manner. It comes from a Latin word meaning sharp. No 'Holy' before that one. Although, I can definitely see the connection between acrimony and matrimony which, at times, causes one to have words fly out of your mouth so sharp that they draw emotional blood. Not a pleasant thought… moving right along…

Patrimony, however, means 'an inheritance from a father or other ancestor' as well as 'legacy' and 'heritage.' It comes from the Latin word for father. If we said, "together in Holy Patrimony," then married folks would be together in a Holy inheritance from a father or a relative. I like the sound of that. As believers in Christ, I think we are indeed married in a type of Holy Patrimony — with a Holy inheritance from God, our Father. We are children of the Great King. With this position we inherit all the blessings and privileges of the Heavenly Kingdom. These privileges come with the responsibility of stewardship with all the talents and resources we have been given, including our financial income.

Now, regarding 'Holy Marco-money,' sometimes our resources in marriage may seem temporarily micro-sized but if we follow wise principles about handling them, they will end up serving us and others as though they have been macro-sized. Therefore turning your micro-money into Holy Macro-money!

Below is Part One of an article entitled, "Learn the Smart Habits of Money-Savvy People," by Robin Glenn. She gives us simple strategies for managing our finances.

1. STAY ORGANIZED Set up a system to pay bills regularly. Being disorganized costs time and money. Stay on top of things by creating a work space at a desk or table where you can manage your finances regularly. Keep an in-box nearby for bills to be paid, and dedicate a filing drawer to all your financial documents. Then designate a regular time to review your finances and pay bills—weekly, biweekly, as you receive them, or through an automatic bill-pay service (free at many banks) so you never risk a late fee again. Whether you use a notebook or a computer program, stick with whatever system you choose. Personal finance software can do everything from balancing your checkbook to managing bill payments online. Try Microsoft Money ($25-$80) or Quicken ($30-$70).

2. SPEND LESS THAN YOU EARN Keep your spending in check by creating and following a budget. A budget is a necessary tool to show how much you're bringing in versus how much you're spending, and to help you figure out where you need to cut back. For a step-by-step guide to tracking your spending and creating a budget, as well as a helpful worksheet, go to http://financialplan.about.com and choose "How to create a budget."



3. UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DESIRE AND NEED Cut back on unnecessary costs. If you make an honest effort to look at your spending habits and cut out the fat, you'll immediately reduce the stress in your life [and marriage] that comes with overspending and extra debt. Do you really need 120 cable channels or those chic new earrings? Try this: Don't go to sales unless you're looking for something. A bargain isn't a bargain if you don't need it.

4. INVEST IN THE FUTURE Stash cash in a retirement account every month. Your Social Security benefits likely won't cover all your expenses after you retire, so get ready to make up the difference. Many retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs, allow your money to grow tax-free until you use the money in retirement. Contribute as much as you can up to the maximum allowed—$5,000 in 2008 for an IRA or Roth IRA, $15,500 for a 401(k). If your employer offers to match your investment, take advantage of this free money!

I hope these four habits will get you started in creating a money-savvy marriage. Look for Part II with four more smart money habits.

"Master," he said, "you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more." His master replied, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" Matthew 25:20b-21 NIV


Your Soul Sister