In the last few days, a friend posted on his FB page "Imagine what you would do if you have no fear."
I've thought a lot about that statement. In fact, I've heard used over and over in many circles over the years.
The reality of it is that no one has no fear. So the real question is "What are you willing to do in spite of your FEAR."
Fear. What is it? The best definition I've heard is False Evidence Appearing Real. Fear is NOT Real. It is an anxious build up of emotions about future events that may or may not happen.
It's like this...We know we need to have that difficult conversation, but we are pretty sure we know how the other person will react, therefore we choose not to have the conversation for Fear of their perceived reaction?
How many times have you chosen to avoid applying for something you really wanted due to a FEAR of Rejection?
How many promotions have you successfully passed up because you didn't show up or even apply?
How many Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda's are there in your mind's conscience?
Mine is littered with thousands, I'm sure. See at the end of the day, when our number is up and it's time to go be with the Lord, the only regrets we'll ever have are the things we didn't act on.
Take a chance. "Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, and the conviction of things not seen." - Heb 11:1
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Are You in the "Slacker Zone"?
Have you ever sat and wondered why success seems to come easy to some people but just not for you?
Do you find yourself making excuses or telling stories to justify why things just didn't work out this time?
Do you keep telling yourself you would have gotten that promotion if so and so down the hall wasn't such a suck up?
How about youir spending habits? You don't have the money, but justify why using the credit card "just this once" isn't a big deal?
My friend, you've just entered the "Slacker Zone".
Pr 6:9-11 "How long will you stay in bed, you slacker? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the arms to rest, and your poverty will come like a robber, your need, like a bandit."
Pr 19:24 "The slacker buries his hand in the bowl; he doesn't even bring it back to his mouth."
Pr 22:13 "The slacker says, 'there's a lion outisde! I'll be killed in the streets!'"
Pr 24:30-34 "I went by the field of the slacker and by the vineyard of a man lacking sense. Thistles had come up everywhere, weeds covered the ground, and the stone wall was ruined. I saw, and took it to heart; I looked, and received instruction: a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the arms to rest, and your poverty will come like a robber your need like a bandit."
I was once referred to a "lot of sizzle without the steak!"
That will get your goat!
What are you willing to do to change the course of your life?
1. You can make excuses and tell stories. Here's the thing about excuses. They only make sense to you. No one else cares.
2. You can get educated and start living the life of a GREAT Fiscal Steward (c)!
Mt 25:29 "For everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have more than enough..."
The great thing is, It is your Choice. Join the Ant Colony or stay in the "Slacker Zone".
Whatever choice YOU make, stop complaining about it and own your decision. It is no one's fault but your own. Slacker's make excuses and blame others. Ants do their part without supervision or without being asked!
YOU Decide! Make it a GREAT day!
Do you find yourself making excuses or telling stories to justify why things just didn't work out this time?
Do you keep telling yourself you would have gotten that promotion if so and so down the hall wasn't such a suck up?
How about youir spending habits? You don't have the money, but justify why using the credit card "just this once" isn't a big deal?
My friend, you've just entered the "Slacker Zone".
Pr 6:9-11 "How long will you stay in bed, you slacker? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the arms to rest, and your poverty will come like a robber, your need, like a bandit."
Pr 19:24 "The slacker buries his hand in the bowl; he doesn't even bring it back to his mouth."
Pr 22:13 "The slacker says, 'there's a lion outisde! I'll be killed in the streets!'"
Pr 24:30-34 "I went by the field of the slacker and by the vineyard of a man lacking sense. Thistles had come up everywhere, weeds covered the ground, and the stone wall was ruined. I saw, and took it to heart; I looked, and received instruction: a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the arms to rest, and your poverty will come like a robber your need like a bandit."
I was once referred to a "lot of sizzle without the steak!"
That will get your goat!
What are you willing to do to change the course of your life?
1. You can make excuses and tell stories. Here's the thing about excuses. They only make sense to you. No one else cares.
2. You can get educated and start living the life of a GREAT Fiscal Steward (c)!
Mt 25:29 "For everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have more than enough..."
The great thing is, It is your Choice. Join the Ant Colony or stay in the "Slacker Zone".
Whatever choice YOU make, stop complaining about it and own your decision. It is no one's fault but your own. Slacker's make excuses and blame others. Ants do their part without supervision or without being asked!
YOU Decide! Make it a GREAT day!
Monday, July 6, 2009
Sources of Income & Beliefs
It is July 6th. On July 4th, my family and I were in a small NM Mining Town to celebrate our country's independence from England. There were cookouts and fireworks and the whole bit. Pay close attention to this conversation between two men I overheard in line at the grocery store...
We're in line and these two rough men are in line behind us. These men were unshaven, leather, biker types.
1. Hey, what's goin' on! Happy 4th man!
2. Hey, thanks! Same stuff, different day, just finishin' up work you know.
1. Gotta make that money. (laughter)
2. Yeah man, someone's gotta make the money!
1. Yeah, I know what you mean.
2. Yeah, someone's gotta make the money.
Now, this was a conversation between two men in their late 40'2 to mid 50's. They've spent most of their lives working hard. Assume they started working around 15 or 16 years old. At age 50, they've spent 35 years working hard to earn their way in society.
They are either on plan A or plan B in life.
Plan A says work hard for 40-50+ years of life and hope to save enough to retire or keep working til you die. Perhaps their will be a small gov't plan (SS) to help out.
Plan B says work smart for 3-5 years to become self sufficient earning multiple streams of "passive" income that will fund the rest of your life freeing you to enjoy your life while the money comes in.
Which would you prefer?
I have dreams and goals of traveling and helping those less fortunate than I am. Unfortunately, tied to a job, I won't be able to realize those dreams.
Don't we work to earn money to live our lives or Do we just live our lives to work?
Declare what you want and go get it! You don't have to be a slave to the workforce to earn an amazing income and live a great life!
We're in line and these two rough men are in line behind us. These men were unshaven, leather, biker types.
1. Hey, what's goin' on! Happy 4th man!
2. Hey, thanks! Same stuff, different day, just finishin' up work you know.
1. Gotta make that money. (laughter)
2. Yeah man, someone's gotta make the money!
1. Yeah, I know what you mean.
2. Yeah, someone's gotta make the money.
Now, this was a conversation between two men in their late 40'2 to mid 50's. They've spent most of their lives working hard. Assume they started working around 15 or 16 years old. At age 50, they've spent 35 years working hard to earn their way in society.
They are either on plan A or plan B in life.
Plan A says work hard for 40-50+ years of life and hope to save enough to retire or keep working til you die. Perhaps their will be a small gov't plan (SS) to help out.
Plan B says work smart for 3-5 years to become self sufficient earning multiple streams of "passive" income that will fund the rest of your life freeing you to enjoy your life while the money comes in.
Which would you prefer?
I have dreams and goals of traveling and helping those less fortunate than I am. Unfortunately, tied to a job, I won't be able to realize those dreams.
Don't we work to earn money to live our lives or Do we just live our lives to work?
Declare what you want and go get it! You don't have to be a slave to the workforce to earn an amazing income and live a great life!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Faith, Feelings, Action = Results
Have you ever had thoughts that were completely depriving you of any forward momentum in your life?
Have you ever sat with your spouse or a loved one to write down a budget that will work THIS TIME?
How many budgets or spending plans have you written that failed miserably within a week?
What about your credit cards? Have you ever said things like, "I'm done with these things?" "I'll never use these cards again!" "I'll pay it off when I get paid."
So why do you think you're in the boat you're in? Could it be perhaps the Wrong ACTIONs in your life creating Results you're not happy with?
It's like this. You can't call yourself a person of inAction because you don't have what you want. The very ACTION you took got you where you are. Now, some of those ACTIONs may have included sitting on the couch watching reruns of Happy Days or Doogie Houser while reaching for the remote to see what's coming up next.
Here's the point, if you Avoid your financial situation, of course the results are not going to change. Follow me on this...
Let's look at Bill & Susan for a moment and look at his thought process...
1. Bill comes home from work, head hangin low, he drops his things at the front door, walks to the couch to RELAX from a long day.
2. Susan, comes and welcomes Bill home and asks if they can go out to eat tonight because she has had an exhausting day and doesn't FEEL like cooking.
3. Bill THINKS to himself, "We really can't afford this, but I promised her when we got married I would provide for her. Besides, it's just this one meal out." So, what do you think he does? Yes, he justifies the right to eat out and off they go for a nice $30 meal with empty calories and a heavy feeling at the end of it. This sort of action happens at least once per week sometimes more.
4. Month end rolls around and they are short $115 dollars to pay the cable bill. BILL is stressed out and takes it out on Susan who is stressed out and takes it out on the kids.
5. Bill is angry and says things like, "We just never seem to get ahead no matter what I do." "Why is life always such a struggle?"
Read this passage with me. JAS 2:17 "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by ACTION, is dead."
Our innocent THOUGHTS lead to FEELINGS which lead to ACTION which equal the RESULTS in our lives.
If you want different Results, you have to change the way you think to begin with. You've got to take control of your thoughts and work Against your Feelings to create Different Action if you want different Results.
It is Simple. It is not necessarily Easy. However, It is something everyone can do! You've got the spirit of the LORD In you and giving you strength to do any and all things.
PHP 4:13 "I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
Have you ever sat with your spouse or a loved one to write down a budget that will work THIS TIME?
How many budgets or spending plans have you written that failed miserably within a week?
What about your credit cards? Have you ever said things like, "I'm done with these things?" "I'll never use these cards again!" "I'll pay it off when I get paid."
So why do you think you're in the boat you're in? Could it be perhaps the Wrong ACTIONs in your life creating Results you're not happy with?
It's like this. You can't call yourself a person of inAction because you don't have what you want. The very ACTION you took got you where you are. Now, some of those ACTIONs may have included sitting on the couch watching reruns of Happy Days or Doogie Houser while reaching for the remote to see what's coming up next.
Here's the point, if you Avoid your financial situation, of course the results are not going to change. Follow me on this...
Let's look at Bill & Susan for a moment and look at his thought process...
1. Bill comes home from work, head hangin low, he drops his things at the front door, walks to the couch to RELAX from a long day.
2. Susan, comes and welcomes Bill home and asks if they can go out to eat tonight because she has had an exhausting day and doesn't FEEL like cooking.
3. Bill THINKS to himself, "We really can't afford this, but I promised her when we got married I would provide for her. Besides, it's just this one meal out." So, what do you think he does? Yes, he justifies the right to eat out and off they go for a nice $30 meal with empty calories and a heavy feeling at the end of it. This sort of action happens at least once per week sometimes more.
4. Month end rolls around and they are short $115 dollars to pay the cable bill. BILL is stressed out and takes it out on Susan who is stressed out and takes it out on the kids.
5. Bill is angry and says things like, "We just never seem to get ahead no matter what I do." "Why is life always such a struggle?"
Read this passage with me. JAS 2:17 "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by ACTION, is dead."
Our innocent THOUGHTS lead to FEELINGS which lead to ACTION which equal the RESULTS in our lives.
If you want different Results, you have to change the way you think to begin with. You've got to take control of your thoughts and work Against your Feelings to create Different Action if you want different Results.
It is Simple. It is not necessarily Easy. However, It is something everyone can do! You've got the spirit of the LORD In you and giving you strength to do any and all things.
PHP 4:13 "I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Who Stole Your Thunder?
Have you ever wondered why you're having a difficult time in life? Pay check to pay check? Relationships? Never Enough to "get ahead"?
Would you like to know how to break free from what is holding you back?
Would you like to have better relationships?
Would you like to enjoy financial freedom?
Is it all right if I share a story about myself first?
Now I know we all have a story of sorts to tell. My story may or may not mean much to you, but I'd like to share it with you to give some perspective if that's ok. I am not going to go into specifics to protect the innocent here.
In my youth, as I was developing my own ideas about making money and growing into a 'self sufficient' and 'responsible' man, I had a couple of experiences with authority figures in my life. Yes, not one, but a couple. I'm sure you've heard things like "you think you're too good" or "you're not good enough" or "stop daydreaming" or "you're full of pie in the sky, come back to earth". Well, I heard things like that quite frequently.
I recall a time as a teen wanting to get a job as a grocery store cashier. Someone whom I trusted told me to go down to McDonald's and get a job. When I told him I didn't want to work at McDonald's he told me I was stuck up and too good for a "real" job. I wanted so badly to earn his respect, but at every turn I was put down.
Here's my point. I've carried those same ideas into my adult life until recently. The sad thing is that I didn't realize I was doing it. I've carried this idea of not being "worthy" to achieve into my working life. At every sign of success and break through, I sabotage myself and shrink back to mediocrity.
Let's look at Eve. Genesis 3 describes a time when Eve was approached by Satan in the Garden. Verse 1 says, "Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, "You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?" Well, the rest is history. We know that Eve agreed with Satan and started to question God's command.
What agreements are you making with the enemy and don't even realize it? I shared about the agreements I made as a young man not being worthy. It held me back until recently. What about you? What lies have you bought into and made your own reality?
See, you create your own reality. It's your story that you keep playing over and over again in your mind. It isn't real.
Do you want to be free? Change your story. Dig deep. Go back in time (in your mind) and Thank the person for sharing and kindly write a new story that supports your dreams and goals. Your mind only does what you tell it to do. So tell it a new story and start to see the new and exciting ways you can live.
Do you realize, you don't have to live a life a mediocrity? Did you know that you don't have to live pay check to pay check?
Today I even saw a friend write, money comes and money goes. Do you know it doesn't have to? Do you know how to make it and keep it and actually see it grow and increase? If you believe you'll receive it only to see it leave again, it will.
Don't let Satan steal your thunder! In today's Wall post, we saw that God created us to Rule over all things, that they are good, and we are to multiply them. We are by design created for Abundance! Let's start living the God given design and be abundant!
It is ok to strive for more. It is ok to grow and the thrive. I heard it said that if 100 Ft Oak Trees had the attitude of humans they would only grow 10 FT tall!
We have an enemy among us trying to rob us of our God Given joy.
Jn 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
You don't have to listen any more! You are God's created and dearly loved child that he wants to have an abundant life! You have permission to live your life's dreams to the fullest! Go for it!
Would you like to know how to break free from what is holding you back?
Would you like to have better relationships?
Would you like to enjoy financial freedom?
Is it all right if I share a story about myself first?
Now I know we all have a story of sorts to tell. My story may or may not mean much to you, but I'd like to share it with you to give some perspective if that's ok. I am not going to go into specifics to protect the innocent here.
In my youth, as I was developing my own ideas about making money and growing into a 'self sufficient' and 'responsible' man, I had a couple of experiences with authority figures in my life. Yes, not one, but a couple. I'm sure you've heard things like "you think you're too good" or "you're not good enough" or "stop daydreaming" or "you're full of pie in the sky, come back to earth". Well, I heard things like that quite frequently.
I recall a time as a teen wanting to get a job as a grocery store cashier. Someone whom I trusted told me to go down to McDonald's and get a job. When I told him I didn't want to work at McDonald's he told me I was stuck up and too good for a "real" job. I wanted so badly to earn his respect, but at every turn I was put down.
Here's my point. I've carried those same ideas into my adult life until recently. The sad thing is that I didn't realize I was doing it. I've carried this idea of not being "worthy" to achieve into my working life. At every sign of success and break through, I sabotage myself and shrink back to mediocrity.
Let's look at Eve. Genesis 3 describes a time when Eve was approached by Satan in the Garden. Verse 1 says, "Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, "You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?" Well, the rest is history. We know that Eve agreed with Satan and started to question God's command.
What agreements are you making with the enemy and don't even realize it? I shared about the agreements I made as a young man not being worthy. It held me back until recently. What about you? What lies have you bought into and made your own reality?
See, you create your own reality. It's your story that you keep playing over and over again in your mind. It isn't real.
Do you want to be free? Change your story. Dig deep. Go back in time (in your mind) and Thank the person for sharing and kindly write a new story that supports your dreams and goals. Your mind only does what you tell it to do. So tell it a new story and start to see the new and exciting ways you can live.
Do you realize, you don't have to live a life a mediocrity? Did you know that you don't have to live pay check to pay check?
Today I even saw a friend write, money comes and money goes. Do you know it doesn't have to? Do you know how to make it and keep it and actually see it grow and increase? If you believe you'll receive it only to see it leave again, it will.
Don't let Satan steal your thunder! In today's Wall post, we saw that God created us to Rule over all things, that they are good, and we are to multiply them. We are by design created for Abundance! Let's start living the God given design and be abundant!
It is ok to strive for more. It is ok to grow and the thrive. I heard it said that if 100 Ft Oak Trees had the attitude of humans they would only grow 10 FT tall!
We have an enemy among us trying to rob us of our God Given joy.
Jn 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
You don't have to listen any more! You are God's created and dearly loved child that he wants to have an abundant life! You have permission to live your life's dreams to the fullest! Go for it!
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Instant Gratification
In the most recent few years, we've faced some challenging financial challenges as most people have in America. Shoot, tell me who hasn't, right?
Let's take a minute and get very real with each other. One of the problems we face in America is the idea that we can't live our lives another day without buying _____________ (fill in the blank). It doesn't matter what it is, but our media and marketing outlets have done an amazing job of "hooking" us to buy now even when we don't have the cash to do it.
What are some examples? "NO Payments/NO Interest til 2014", "0% Financing This weekend ONLY!", "We accept Installment Payments", and the list goes on and on...
The idea is to buy today on tomorrow's dime, right! WRONG! It's not Tomorrow's dime, It's next year and the next year and the next year's dimes TOO! Are you following me?
I told you I'm going to get very real with you here. The truth hurts, but according to Jesus, when we apply his teaching to our lives, we will know the truth and it will set us free (JN 8:31-32) KEY! When we APPLY his teachings.
See, at first, the Truth will absolutely Tick you off. I'm not talking about the Truth about others. NO! I'm talking about the Reality you live in.
Well, I told you I would blow your mind. Ready? Instant Gratification ruled my life. It absolutely ruled my life! If it was a deal, I couldn't say no! I had credit cards with 0% for 12 month offers on them. You'd better believe I used them all! I won't tell you how much debt we racked up, but your head would spin if I told you. UGLY!
In a workshop this weekend, I had the opportunity to "save" thousands of dollars on some continuing Ed courses offered in the future if I sign up today. If you've ever gone to a seminar, you know what I'm talking about. Well, my wife and I want to take these classes.
We made a vow to God and to ourselves to only pay cash as we go. If something is important to us, we will save the money over time and make only 1 payment for it. It killed me to pass on these deals today. In fact, it ticked me off a bit. Now, I am absolutely grateful we passed!
See, our money habits are not easy to change. In fact, they are some of the deepest ingrained habits we have. Changing them takes courage and integrity. When everything around us says gratify your desire NOW, it takes a lot of integrity to stand there eyeball to eyeball and say Not Now.
After all, who is in charge? You or Money? Who do you bow to? God or Money?
If you want to know just how intense your feelings are about money and who controls your life, take a $100 Bill today and burn it. Hold it out in front of you and light it up. When I did this, I got nausea in my belly. I found out quickly that MONEY was my master.
I declared it to be done! I master the tool money, and I serve God. Not the other way around!
Do you want FREEDOM? It does come at a cost. It will not be easy to attain, but it is completely attainable.
Set aside your immediate desires for longer term desires and you will master the Way of the ANT!
God Bless You!
Let's take a minute and get very real with each other. One of the problems we face in America is the idea that we can't live our lives another day without buying _____________ (fill in the blank). It doesn't matter what it is, but our media and marketing outlets have done an amazing job of "hooking" us to buy now even when we don't have the cash to do it.
What are some examples? "NO Payments/NO Interest til 2014", "0% Financing This weekend ONLY!", "We accept Installment Payments", and the list goes on and on...
The idea is to buy today on tomorrow's dime, right! WRONG! It's not Tomorrow's dime, It's next year and the next year and the next year's dimes TOO! Are you following me?
I told you I'm going to get very real with you here. The truth hurts, but according to Jesus, when we apply his teaching to our lives, we will know the truth and it will set us free (JN 8:31-32) KEY! When we APPLY his teachings.
See, at first, the Truth will absolutely Tick you off. I'm not talking about the Truth about others. NO! I'm talking about the Reality you live in.
Well, I told you I would blow your mind. Ready? Instant Gratification ruled my life. It absolutely ruled my life! If it was a deal, I couldn't say no! I had credit cards with 0% for 12 month offers on them. You'd better believe I used them all! I won't tell you how much debt we racked up, but your head would spin if I told you. UGLY!
In a workshop this weekend, I had the opportunity to "save" thousands of dollars on some continuing Ed courses offered in the future if I sign up today. If you've ever gone to a seminar, you know what I'm talking about. Well, my wife and I want to take these classes.
We made a vow to God and to ourselves to only pay cash as we go. If something is important to us, we will save the money over time and make only 1 payment for it. It killed me to pass on these deals today. In fact, it ticked me off a bit. Now, I am absolutely grateful we passed!
See, our money habits are not easy to change. In fact, they are some of the deepest ingrained habits we have. Changing them takes courage and integrity. When everything around us says gratify your desire NOW, it takes a lot of integrity to stand there eyeball to eyeball and say Not Now.
After all, who is in charge? You or Money? Who do you bow to? God or Money?
If you want to know just how intense your feelings are about money and who controls your life, take a $100 Bill today and burn it. Hold it out in front of you and light it up. When I did this, I got nausea in my belly. I found out quickly that MONEY was my master.
I declared it to be done! I master the tool money, and I serve God. Not the other way around!
Do you want FREEDOM? It does come at a cost. It will not be easy to attain, but it is completely attainable.
Set aside your immediate desires for longer term desires and you will master the Way of the ANT!
God Bless You!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Money - Root of All Evil?
Great article!
Money being the Root of All Evil is probably one of the most mis-quoted verses in the Bible. The actual verse reads "For the LOVE of money is A root of all kinds of evil." 1 Tim 6:10
Hmmm...So if parents don't want to teach children about Biblical management of the money they have based on this passage, then they are condemning their children to a False Teaching.
Money in and of itself is not evil. The misuse of money is a root or a begining of all kinds of evil. What types of evil might misuse of money bring about?
1. use for personal pleasure and folly - alcoholism, drugs, self-indulgence
2. "Shop til you drop" - Consumerism and Worldly lust
3. Selfish Gain - gotta have it now
4. "Look out for number one" - Status
5. Honor and Glory to self rather than God
We are facing one of the biggest financial and economic crisis in America's history. The National Savings rate is at all time lows (negitive) due to over use and abuse of credit. Bankruptcy rates are at all time highs. Foreclosures are at some of the highest levels we've seen since the early 80's.
Jesus told us we can't serve both God and money. Well, by not educating your children about the importance of money in our lives, they will become slaves to the dollar and not even know how or why they got there.
How many Christians do you know who "serve the Lord" with all their heart, mind, soul and strenth, yet barely make it paycheck to paycheck. Little food on the table, 2-3 months out from Bankruptcy because there is no reserve system and over extended credit. Well, my friend that Christian is a slave to money and is serving money more than they are God!
It's time to wake up and learn how to honor God first with what he has blessed us with. Start with your kids. You have a great and awesome responsibility to change the next generation!
For more information on how you can help train your kids, please visit Moola Monsters website or follow their BLOG.
Joshua Christensen
Author, Consider the Ant
CEO, Consider the Ant Ministries
http://companies.to/considertheant
Money being the Root of All Evil is probably one of the most mis-quoted verses in the Bible. The actual verse reads "For the LOVE of money is A root of all kinds of evil." 1 Tim 6:10
Hmmm...So if parents don't want to teach children about Biblical management of the money they have based on this passage, then they are condemning their children to a False Teaching.
Money in and of itself is not evil. The misuse of money is a root or a begining of all kinds of evil. What types of evil might misuse of money bring about?
1. use for personal pleasure and folly - alcoholism, drugs, self-indulgence
2. "Shop til you drop" - Consumerism and Worldly lust
3. Selfish Gain - gotta have it now
4. "Look out for number one" - Status
5. Honor and Glory to self rather than God
We are facing one of the biggest financial and economic crisis in America's history. The National Savings rate is at all time lows (negitive) due to over use and abuse of credit. Bankruptcy rates are at all time highs. Foreclosures are at some of the highest levels we've seen since the early 80's.
Jesus told us we can't serve both God and money. Well, by not educating your children about the importance of money in our lives, they will become slaves to the dollar and not even know how or why they got there.
How many Christians do you know who "serve the Lord" with all their heart, mind, soul and strenth, yet barely make it paycheck to paycheck. Little food on the table, 2-3 months out from Bankruptcy because there is no reserve system and over extended credit. Well, my friend that Christian is a slave to money and is serving money more than they are God!
It's time to wake up and learn how to honor God first with what he has blessed us with. Start with your kids. You have a great and awesome responsibility to change the next generation!
For more information on how you can help train your kids, please visit Moola Monsters website or follow their BLOG.
Joshua Christensen
Author, Consider the Ant
CEO, Consider the Ant Ministries
http://companies.to/considertheant
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Forward Momentum
I was thinking this morning about our little ant friend. Have you ever tried to stop an ant from moving towards it's goal of taking it's food back to the colony? Try and see what happens.
I've done this, and those little ants will continue to find a way to overcome any and all obstacles in their way. They climb. They go around. Whatever it takes to see their objective come to fruition.
What about you? Do you quit at the first sign of adversity? Are obstacles too insurmountable in your eyes?
Well, let me tell you my friend. Amazing things happen with a can do attitude. As a fan of Consider the Ant, please take some time to review your thoughts and attitudes when things get tough.
Maybe you're going through a difficult time right now. I can tell you this last 18 months have been some of the toughest I've faced. Many of the obstacles before my family and I have felt very insurmountable. The cool thing is that they are not. In fact, we are overcoming many of them as we speak.
3 things to help you keep your forward momentum...
1. Have a Written Vision and Plan
2. Stay Focused on the Vision and Plan
3. Take Action, even when you don't quite feel like it.
This simple formula will help you, like the ant, get back to the colony to reach your goals!
God Bless you!
Joshua
Visit our page on Facebook...
Consider The Ant
I've done this, and those little ants will continue to find a way to overcome any and all obstacles in their way. They climb. They go around. Whatever it takes to see their objective come to fruition.
What about you? Do you quit at the first sign of adversity? Are obstacles too insurmountable in your eyes?
Well, let me tell you my friend. Amazing things happen with a can do attitude. As a fan of Consider the Ant, please take some time to review your thoughts and attitudes when things get tough.
Maybe you're going through a difficult time right now. I can tell you this last 18 months have been some of the toughest I've faced. Many of the obstacles before my family and I have felt very insurmountable. The cool thing is that they are not. In fact, we are overcoming many of them as we speak.
3 things to help you keep your forward momentum...
1. Have a Written Vision and Plan
2. Stay Focused on the Vision and Plan
3. Take Action, even when you don't quite feel like it.
This simple formula will help you, like the ant, get back to the colony to reach your goals!
God Bless you!
Joshua
Visit our page on Facebook...
Consider The Ant
Sunday, May 31, 2009
What is Your Life all About?
Watch this powerful video, listen to the song, and reflect on your life. How does Fiscal Stewardship play it's part in your life?
When you know where everything comes from and who it all belongs to, you'll know how to live your life.
God Bless you.
When you know where everything comes from and who it all belongs to, you'll know how to live your life.
God Bless you.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Be a Difference Maker
Have you ever wondered how you can make a REAL difference in someone's life? I used to until recently when I decided to sponsor a child in Guatemala named Kanek.
Kanek just turned 7 on Wed of this week. He and his family live in a rural area where his parents earn $195 per month to support the family. Surprisingly, they are one of the more well off families in this impoverished area. With 4 children, they have a 2 bedroom home with a kitchen, running water, and electricity which is very rare. Many of the children in Kanek's village don't make it past 3rd grade because they start working to help the family.
"There will never cease to be poor people in the land; that is why I am commanding you 'You must willingly open your hand to your afflicted and poor brother in your land.'" DT 15:11
To see how you can help, please visit
http://www.liftoneproject.org/goto/considertheant
One of the best movie scenes I ever saw was from About Schmidt by Jack Nicholson. He plays the part of a retiree who feels as if his life was in vain and he didn't make a difference. Watch this video of the last scene in the movie when it finally hits him that his life does matter...
Thank you and May God Bless You Today!
Joshua
Kanek just turned 7 on Wed of this week. He and his family live in a rural area where his parents earn $195 per month to support the family. Surprisingly, they are one of the more well off families in this impoverished area. With 4 children, they have a 2 bedroom home with a kitchen, running water, and electricity which is very rare. Many of the children in Kanek's village don't make it past 3rd grade because they start working to help the family.
"There will never cease to be poor people in the land; that is why I am commanding you 'You must willingly open your hand to your afflicted and poor brother in your land.'" DT 15:11
To see how you can help, please visit
http://www.liftoneproject.org/goto/considertheant
One of the best movie scenes I ever saw was from About Schmidt by Jack Nicholson. He plays the part of a retiree who feels as if his life was in vain and he didn't make a difference. Watch this video of the last scene in the movie when it finally hits him that his life does matter...
Thank you and May God Bless You Today!
Joshua
Friday, May 22, 2009
So You Think You Want to Refinance?
There are some interesting things happening in the mortgage industry that we've never seen all at the same time. Yes, the industry is very cyclical. As our country's economy moves in and out of bull or bear markets, Real Estate tends to do the same.
Typically, our markets see at least one recession every 10 years. This is by far the deepest and hardest we've seen in over 50 years. Some economists believe we are near bottom, while others do not share their optomism. Either way, an interesting thing has occurred during this down time.
In the midst of all the turmoil, the mortgage industry has all but imploded. In an effort to salvage the industry and our banking system, the government made huge efforts last fall and this Spring to make some changes to spur lending between banks. They then authorized the Treasury to purchase Mortgage Backed Securities to push mortgage rates to historic low prices.
As mortgage rates fall to 4.5 and 5% over the last several months, Americans have come out of the woodwork to refinance their homes. Also, we are starting to see improvements in the resale of homes. All these things are good things, you might think. There is a problem though.
Banks and Lenders very quickly downsized over the last 2 years to shave overhead and avoid closing up shop all together. Thousands of jobs were lost. Thousands of banks were lost.
In previous Refinance markets, the business was absolutely unheard of. However, the number of lenders out there was growing, not shrinking. Lenders and Banks were expanding and hiring to meet the growing demands of the public.
Today, Banks and Lenders are fewer. The amount of business coming in is very difficult to manage. Processors, underwriters, compliance teams, & loan officers are all working 10+ hours per day and even on weekends to keep up with the volume of business. The business is spread across a smaller number of qualified servicers who do not have the full capacity to handle it.
What does that mean? It means refinance business is taking 8, 12, and sometimes more weeks to complete. These refinances are coming in so fast, they are being placed in que to be worked up.
As consumers, it is important to understand that the speed of service is challenging for all of the banks right now. Many banks are even charging non-refundable $500 application fees before they even start the process. If the loan doesn't close or if it's not even approved the consumer is out the application fee.
Most cities in America are dealing with declining home values causing appraisals to come in short on so many refinance transactions. This causes problems. Across the board we're seeing lenders and banks calling for Appraisal Reviews. Essentially, a second appraiser is hired to offer his value as well as the first. These reviews are costing more money and more time only making the processing time that much slower.
If you're looking at refinancing in these times, Be sure you are prepared for a long wait. It may seem frustrating to you as a consumer. Trust me, there is a lot of frustration in the loan plants these days. I don't know anyone who doesn't want to close loans and make some money. I also know so many highly qualified and professional loan officers who are desperately trying to provide outstanding service to their clients.
If you or someone you know is going to refinance your home, please be patient with the process. The system is in turmoil right now. We're all working very hard to drive the car with two flat tires at 60 miles an hour.
Hang in there! We'll all get through this together. Here at Legacy Mortgage, we are closing loans like we've never done. Our numbers are shattering records every month. It is all good news.
We are not collecting an application fee upfront, but we are collecting for appraisals up front to cover that cost. If you're in the market, we are still closing refinances in approximately 60 days. If you're looking at buying, we are still closing loans in 30-45 days.
Call and we'll be happy to work with you on your financing needs. Have a great day!
Joshua Christensen 505-938-5940
Typically, our markets see at least one recession every 10 years. This is by far the deepest and hardest we've seen in over 50 years. Some economists believe we are near bottom, while others do not share their optomism. Either way, an interesting thing has occurred during this down time.
In the midst of all the turmoil, the mortgage industry has all but imploded. In an effort to salvage the industry and our banking system, the government made huge efforts last fall and this Spring to make some changes to spur lending between banks. They then authorized the Treasury to purchase Mortgage Backed Securities to push mortgage rates to historic low prices.
As mortgage rates fall to 4.5 and 5% over the last several months, Americans have come out of the woodwork to refinance their homes. Also, we are starting to see improvements in the resale of homes. All these things are good things, you might think. There is a problem though.
Banks and Lenders very quickly downsized over the last 2 years to shave overhead and avoid closing up shop all together. Thousands of jobs were lost. Thousands of banks were lost.
In previous Refinance markets, the business was absolutely unheard of. However, the number of lenders out there was growing, not shrinking. Lenders and Banks were expanding and hiring to meet the growing demands of the public.
Today, Banks and Lenders are fewer. The amount of business coming in is very difficult to manage. Processors, underwriters, compliance teams, & loan officers are all working 10+ hours per day and even on weekends to keep up with the volume of business. The business is spread across a smaller number of qualified servicers who do not have the full capacity to handle it.
What does that mean? It means refinance business is taking 8, 12, and sometimes more weeks to complete. These refinances are coming in so fast, they are being placed in que to be worked up.
As consumers, it is important to understand that the speed of service is challenging for all of the banks right now. Many banks are even charging non-refundable $500 application fees before they even start the process. If the loan doesn't close or if it's not even approved the consumer is out the application fee.
Most cities in America are dealing with declining home values causing appraisals to come in short on so many refinance transactions. This causes problems. Across the board we're seeing lenders and banks calling for Appraisal Reviews. Essentially, a second appraiser is hired to offer his value as well as the first. These reviews are costing more money and more time only making the processing time that much slower.
If you're looking at refinancing in these times, Be sure you are prepared for a long wait. It may seem frustrating to you as a consumer. Trust me, there is a lot of frustration in the loan plants these days. I don't know anyone who doesn't want to close loans and make some money. I also know so many highly qualified and professional loan officers who are desperately trying to provide outstanding service to their clients.
If you or someone you know is going to refinance your home, please be patient with the process. The system is in turmoil right now. We're all working very hard to drive the car with two flat tires at 60 miles an hour.
Hang in there! We'll all get through this together. Here at Legacy Mortgage, we are closing loans like we've never done. Our numbers are shattering records every month. It is all good news.
We are not collecting an application fee upfront, but we are collecting for appraisals up front to cover that cost. If you're in the market, we are still closing refinances in approximately 60 days. If you're looking at buying, we are still closing loans in 30-45 days.
Call and we'll be happy to work with you on your financing needs. Have a great day!
Joshua Christensen 505-938-5940
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Why do we labor?
Ecc 4:4 "And I saw that all labor and all achievement springs from man's envy of his neighbor. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind."
Have you ever stopped and wondered why you do the things you do? Maybe your friend got a new car or a new house. Maybe you like your co-worker's new outfit. Did your buddy get that new gaming system?
Envy is a funny thing. It is very subtle, but can quickly ruin a financial picture. Don't we all want the appearance of success to our friends and family? Have you ever made a purchase you didn't have the money to make? Out came the credit card?
It is so easy to get caught up in the envy game - I like to think of it as creating your own blessings. Rather than exercise a little patience and integrity in your finances, you figure you can pay it off when the bill comes in. The question is, do you pay it off when the bill comes in?
There are bills before Congress and the Senate now about coming down on credit card companies for over charging people when payments are late. Many Americans pay way too much interest on their credit cards, some to the tune of 29.9% APR! It is an outrage that credit card companies can get away with that.
But, it is no more an outrage that you agreed to take out that loan for a meal or a shirt because you had to have it now. Be careful of envy.
Practice self control and discipline and the Lord's abundance will flow forth in your lives.
Have you ever stopped and wondered why you do the things you do? Maybe your friend got a new car or a new house. Maybe you like your co-worker's new outfit. Did your buddy get that new gaming system?
Envy is a funny thing. It is very subtle, but can quickly ruin a financial picture. Don't we all want the appearance of success to our friends and family? Have you ever made a purchase you didn't have the money to make? Out came the credit card?
It is so easy to get caught up in the envy game - I like to think of it as creating your own blessings. Rather than exercise a little patience and integrity in your finances, you figure you can pay it off when the bill comes in. The question is, do you pay it off when the bill comes in?
There are bills before Congress and the Senate now about coming down on credit card companies for over charging people when payments are late. Many Americans pay way too much interest on their credit cards, some to the tune of 29.9% APR! It is an outrage that credit card companies can get away with that.
But, it is no more an outrage that you agreed to take out that loan for a meal or a shirt because you had to have it now. Be careful of envy.
Practice self control and discipline and the Lord's abundance will flow forth in your lives.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Wisdom worth more than Gold?
How many times have you found yourself running in circles to get rich or pay bills or just have enough to get by?
Often? Have you considered that you just may be chasing the wrong things?
Pr 17:16 "Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?"
What activities are you engaged in to acquire wisdom worth more than gold or silver?
The 2nd Key to Fiscal Stewardship (c) is to Develop What You've Been Given. If you don't chase after wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, the money you do acquire will fall through the cracks. Better yet, it's like putting money in a purse with holes in it as Soloman wrote so long ago.
Pr 3:13-16 "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious htan rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor."
Yes, Step 2 to Fiscal Stewardship (c) - Develop what you've been given. Seek wisdom. Seek Understanding. Seek Knowledge. Stop chasing your tail. Money comes and money goes, but once you know how you got it and how to use it, you'll have that knowledge forever.
Have a great Monday!
Often? Have you considered that you just may be chasing the wrong things?
Pr 17:16 "Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?"
What activities are you engaged in to acquire wisdom worth more than gold or silver?
The 2nd Key to Fiscal Stewardship (c) is to Develop What You've Been Given. If you don't chase after wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, the money you do acquire will fall through the cracks. Better yet, it's like putting money in a purse with holes in it as Soloman wrote so long ago.
Pr 3:13-16 "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious htan rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor."
Yes, Step 2 to Fiscal Stewardship (c) - Develop what you've been given. Seek wisdom. Seek Understanding. Seek Knowledge. Stop chasing your tail. Money comes and money goes, but once you know how you got it and how to use it, you'll have that knowledge forever.
Have a great Monday!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
The Best Things in Life are Free
I mentioned previously that we spent a week at my Grandparents earlier this month. "There's gold in them thar hills..." I tell you what, Grandma's got some wisdom I've never known. Little pearls and gems or nuggets if you will that, if applied, can change lives.
Over lunch one day, she started talking about vacations they took with their kids (my mom) and the memories they had. Then, almost as if rehearsed, she said, "You know, the best things in life are free." Then she paused.
We all unsuspectingly agreed and went along with it.
Then a few moments later, as if she'd been planning this discussion for years, she broke in about a time when they took the kids on a very elaborate vacation. She didn't give details about what all they did, because that didn't matter to the story. But, she said they stopped by the river on one of the days and let the kids swim and play in the water.
She doesn't remember what elese they did, but she does remember they spent a lot of money on that vacation to 'build' memories. The only memory that lives today is the free swim in the river.
Her point. Disney land? Disney World? Sea World? Six Flags? Whatever. The best memories builders don't have to cost anything.
Why is it that we feel so compelled to spend thousands of dollars on vacations the kids will never remember because they are too young or because they aren't important to them?
Funny part is how hard we work and strive to save for these trips. Better yet, to pay off the credit debt incurred on these trips for years to come. Fading memories.
Look around and save a penny by looking for the Free memories builders. They are out there in abundance if you look.
Have fun! Your kids will love you for it.
Over lunch one day, she started talking about vacations they took with their kids (my mom) and the memories they had. Then, almost as if rehearsed, she said, "You know, the best things in life are free." Then she paused.
We all unsuspectingly agreed and went along with it.
Then a few moments later, as if she'd been planning this discussion for years, she broke in about a time when they took the kids on a very elaborate vacation. She didn't give details about what all they did, because that didn't matter to the story. But, she said they stopped by the river on one of the days and let the kids swim and play in the water.
She doesn't remember what elese they did, but she does remember they spent a lot of money on that vacation to 'build' memories. The only memory that lives today is the free swim in the river.
Her point. Disney land? Disney World? Sea World? Six Flags? Whatever. The best memories builders don't have to cost anything.
Why is it that we feel so compelled to spend thousands of dollars on vacations the kids will never remember because they are too young or because they aren't important to them?
Funny part is how hard we work and strive to save for these trips. Better yet, to pay off the credit debt incurred on these trips for years to come. Fading memories.
Look around and save a penny by looking for the Free memories builders. They are out there in abundance if you look.
Have fun! Your kids will love you for it.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Foreclosed in the Garden?
Adam’s primary role was one of being Steward over that which God Created. That Stewardship was based on God’s rules which were very simple to follow. In fact, the rules were so simple, God only gave Adam one rule:
And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.” – Ge. 2:16-17
When Adam chose not to obey, a curse was given, and the Lord God foreclosed on the Garden of Eden (Ge. 3). Have you known anyone recently who lost their home, their dignity, their sense of pride, their identity in many cases because of a foreclosure situation? In many of these cases, some fundamental financial rules were broken along the way to foreclosure. Foreclosure doesn’t just happen over night.
Who was it that convinced Eve to eat the fruit? That’s right. Satan was right there making the fruit very appealing to her. He filled her with fine sounding arguments making it seem like no big deal.
Have you ever purchased something on credit thinking you’d pay it off at the end of the month, no big deal. Play now. Pay later. Go ahead, you’ve earned it. You deserve it, he says. You make enough to afford those payments. Look at how successful you’ve been. Show your friends your success. You need this. People in your position do this all the time. Don’t be fooled.
He is slick and ever so subtle in his approach. Didn’t he convince Eve by asking her, “Surely God didn’t say you would die, did he.”He is so good at what he does, that he’s got us telling each other the same lies so he can relax. Don’t we seek “advice” from those we trust who tell us everything will be ok if we can “afford” it? Be careful.
Consider the Ant (c) Introduction pp. 23-24
And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.” – Ge. 2:16-17
When Adam chose not to obey, a curse was given, and the Lord God foreclosed on the Garden of Eden (Ge. 3). Have you known anyone recently who lost their home, their dignity, their sense of pride, their identity in many cases because of a foreclosure situation? In many of these cases, some fundamental financial rules were broken along the way to foreclosure. Foreclosure doesn’t just happen over night.
Who was it that convinced Eve to eat the fruit? That’s right. Satan was right there making the fruit very appealing to her. He filled her with fine sounding arguments making it seem like no big deal.
Have you ever purchased something on credit thinking you’d pay it off at the end of the month, no big deal. Play now. Pay later. Go ahead, you’ve earned it. You deserve it, he says. You make enough to afford those payments. Look at how successful you’ve been. Show your friends your success. You need this. People in your position do this all the time. Don’t be fooled.
He is slick and ever so subtle in his approach. Didn’t he convince Eve by asking her, “Surely God didn’t say you would die, did he.”He is so good at what he does, that he’s got us telling each other the same lies so he can relax. Don’t we seek “advice” from those we trust who tell us everything will be ok if we can “afford” it? Be careful.
Consider the Ant (c) Introduction pp. 23-24
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Consider the Ant on Facebook!
Now on Facebook http://www.companies.to/considertheant
Consider the Ant Ministries was established in 2007 to educate and empower Christians how they can take back their God given promise of Freedom. Using the Basic principals of Fiscal Stewardship (c) we are committed to helping students and families break the cycle of debt acquisition and establish the long lasting promise of abundance God promises everyone of us.
"For I know the plans I have for you" - this is the Lord's declaration - "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a futre." - Jer 29:11
As our country faces one of the most difficult economic times in our short history, more and more families are feeling the pinch of living from one pay check to the next. Many Christians are crying out to God asking when his plan to prosper will take place in their lives.
Today is that day.
My Christian friend, you no longer have to be slave to money, but rather you can start fresh today and discover the rich promises God has for your life.Here at Consider the Ant Ministries, we believe the wealth of our nations must be regained by the Christian community for the greater good of mankind. Rather than hoarding wealth for expensive toys, how about hoarding wealth for service to those less fortunate?
Join us in our efforts to reach our generation and the next to change the way Christians handle their finances and give God all the glory and honor due him.
Become a Fan Today
May God Bless You,
Joshua Christensen - President, founder
Consider the Ant Ministries was established in 2007 to educate and empower Christians how they can take back their God given promise of Freedom. Using the Basic principals of Fiscal Stewardship (c) we are committed to helping students and families break the cycle of debt acquisition and establish the long lasting promise of abundance God promises everyone of us.
"For I know the plans I have for you" - this is the Lord's declaration - "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a futre." - Jer 29:11
As our country faces one of the most difficult economic times in our short history, more and more families are feeling the pinch of living from one pay check to the next. Many Christians are crying out to God asking when his plan to prosper will take place in their lives.
Today is that day.
My Christian friend, you no longer have to be slave to money, but rather you can start fresh today and discover the rich promises God has for your life.Here at Consider the Ant Ministries, we believe the wealth of our nations must be regained by the Christian community for the greater good of mankind. Rather than hoarding wealth for expensive toys, how about hoarding wealth for service to those less fortunate?
Join us in our efforts to reach our generation and the next to change the way Christians handle their finances and give God all the glory and honor due him.
Become a Fan Today
May God Bless You,
Joshua Christensen - President, founder
Would you take out a Loan to buy a new Shirt?
I was reading the book of Haggai the other day when a verse stood out to me about managing our money.
First of all, you may be wondering why I was in Haggai. I asked myself the very same thing, but felt led by the Spirit to pursue it. I'm glad I did. Check this out...
"Now, the LORD of Hosts says this:
Think carefully about your ways:
You have planted much but harvested little.
You eat but never have enough to be satisfied.
You drink but never have enough to become drunk.
You put on clothes but never have enough to get warm.
The wage earner puts his wages into a bag with a hole in it."
Hag 1:5-6
Have you ever gone to the mall and found an outfit or a shirt you really liked? When you looked at the price tag, you realized you didn't have the cash for it. No problem, right? So, you think to yourself, "I'll just run to the bank to take out a small loan for the shirt!" Easy right?
Sounds a bit ridiculous doesn't it. Well, reaching into the wallet to swipe the credit card is doing just that. The problem is that it is a very high interest loan that most people don't pay off without interest. The other problem is that the shirt then comes with other accessories and things you don't really need. Over time the "short term" loan can become a high interest nightmare.
Think about it like this. Does your high school or college student understand this when they are out to Taco Bell or McDonald's? Do they realize the credit card you gave them to "learn how to manage credit" is a ticking time bomb if they take out loans for bad, empty calorie meals?
"A bag with holes in it" is the way Haggai descirbes it. Something to give some thought to.
Consider your ways carefully, says the LORD. What are you doing in these economic times to strengthen yourself and your family? What lessons are you passing on to the next generation?
Complaining that the government is accumulating debt that our grandchildren will be paying for is not solving the economic crisis happening under your own roof. It's time to stop the madness and pay as you go rather than play today and pay tomorrow.
Have a fantastic day!
First of all, you may be wondering why I was in Haggai. I asked myself the very same thing, but felt led by the Spirit to pursue it. I'm glad I did. Check this out...
"Now, the LORD of Hosts says this:
Think carefully about your ways:
You have planted much but harvested little.
You eat but never have enough to be satisfied.
You drink but never have enough to become drunk.
You put on clothes but never have enough to get warm.
The wage earner puts his wages into a bag with a hole in it."
Hag 1:5-6
Have you ever gone to the mall and found an outfit or a shirt you really liked? When you looked at the price tag, you realized you didn't have the cash for it. No problem, right? So, you think to yourself, "I'll just run to the bank to take out a small loan for the shirt!" Easy right?
Sounds a bit ridiculous doesn't it. Well, reaching into the wallet to swipe the credit card is doing just that. The problem is that it is a very high interest loan that most people don't pay off without interest. The other problem is that the shirt then comes with other accessories and things you don't really need. Over time the "short term" loan can become a high interest nightmare.
Think about it like this. Does your high school or college student understand this when they are out to Taco Bell or McDonald's? Do they realize the credit card you gave them to "learn how to manage credit" is a ticking time bomb if they take out loans for bad, empty calorie meals?
"A bag with holes in it" is the way Haggai descirbes it. Something to give some thought to.
Consider your ways carefully, says the LORD. What are you doing in these economic times to strengthen yourself and your family? What lessons are you passing on to the next generation?
Complaining that the government is accumulating debt that our grandchildren will be paying for is not solving the economic crisis happening under your own roof. It's time to stop the madness and pay as you go rather than play today and pay tomorrow.
Have a fantastic day!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
What is Fiscal Stewardship (c)?
What is Fiscal Stewardship(c)?
Do you find that you have too much month left over when the money runs out?
Do you struggle with giving to charity or church because you're stretched too thin to do so?
Would you like to do more to help others but can barely make it pay check to pay check and need help yourself?
Don't worry, you're not alone in this. As a culture and society, we have done a mediocre job of educating people on solid financial principles. Fiscal Stewardship (c) is just that source of education.
I am passionate about educating and empowering Christians and non-Christian's alike to become better Stewards of their money to honor God and live the abundant and prosperous lives he designed us for.
In my first book, Consider the Ant: 3 keys to Fiscal Stewardship (c), I lay the very foundation of God's plan for our fiscal education. Money is mentioned more times in the Bible than even faith. Do you think it may be important? So do I.
Have you heard, Jesus mentioned that we cannot love both God and money. Why? Because we will be a slave to one or the other.
Creditors and marketeers want us to believe that the use of their product somehow "saves" you money. They make us all believe that using a credit card produces "priceless" memories or that you can "have it now". They don't tell you that slavery begins when someone owns your income.
Very quickly stress sets in, marriages end, health problems increase, bankruptcy rates rise, and savings rates decrease.
Fiscal Stewardship (c) is the key to not only Financial Freedom, but Spiritual Freedom as well.
My website is under construction, but soon, you'll be able to go online to http://www.ConsidertheAntonline.com to order supplies and other educational resources for your small group, your church, your family, or even your high school student.
Consider the Ant will be in stores later this year.
Our country faces one of the greatest economic crisis' we've ever seen. It is time to take back control of your life and your freedom.
Have a great day!
Do you find that you have too much month left over when the money runs out?Do you struggle with giving to charity or church because you're stretched too thin to do so?
Would you like to do more to help others but can barely make it pay check to pay check and need help yourself?
Don't worry, you're not alone in this. As a culture and society, we have done a mediocre job of educating people on solid financial principles. Fiscal Stewardship (c) is just that source of education.
I am passionate about educating and empowering Christians and non-Christian's alike to become better Stewards of their money to honor God and live the abundant and prosperous lives he designed us for.
In my first book, Consider the Ant: 3 keys to Fiscal Stewardship (c), I lay the very foundation of God's plan for our fiscal education. Money is mentioned more times in the Bible than even faith. Do you think it may be important? So do I.
Have you heard, Jesus mentioned that we cannot love both God and money. Why? Because we will be a slave to one or the other.
Creditors and marketeers want us to believe that the use of their product somehow "saves" you money. They make us all believe that using a credit card produces "priceless" memories or that you can "have it now". They don't tell you that slavery begins when someone owns your income.
Very quickly stress sets in, marriages end, health problems increase, bankruptcy rates rise, and savings rates decrease.
Fiscal Stewardship (c) is the key to not only Financial Freedom, but Spiritual Freedom as well.
My website is under construction, but soon, you'll be able to go online to http://www.ConsidertheAntonline.com to order supplies and other educational resources for your small group, your church, your family, or even your high school student.
Consider the Ant will be in stores later this year.
Our country faces one of the greatest economic crisis' we've ever seen. It is time to take back control of your life and your freedom.
Have a great day!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Save Today, Play Tomorrow
An interesting conversation happened this week while on vacation at my 80 year old grand-parent's house. G-ma decided to tell us all about how she bought her first house "when she was poor" by taking a part time job to save for the down payment.
Born in 1928, G-ma is not ignorant to difficult times. Consider the Great Depression of the 1930's, WWII and all the food rations, the Korean War, Vietnam, etc. She was 46 years old when she went back to school to become a beautician (never too old to start again). She finished her career by selling her beauty salon after 13 years of ownership (a late life entreprenuer).
Yes, she had some lesson's for us.
What about our generation? We live in a time when credit companies successfully taught our next generations the power of play today, pay later. Today we are facing one of, what history will call, the worst economic meltdowns in American history. It all revolves around the use and abuse of credit to buy homes, cars, college educations, and all kinds of credit card abuses...
Grandma suggested on several occassions to open a seperate savings account to save money for the different important goals we have. If we want new tires, set aside $5-10, or 20 every time we get a chance. Before we know it, we'll have the money we need for the new tires.
What about a vacation? Will it cost $1200? Find a way to save $100 per month until you have enough for the trip.
The point is simple, savings will never hurt you, but credit has a way of destroying lives. Too many of us believe we can't survive without good credit. I don't believe it. God blesses us from his overflowing abundance. We bless ourselves from a lack of abundance, i.e. use of credit. Our impatience pushes us to use credit to falsely create a world of "blessings" which are not really our own, but are borrowed. The use of credit slowly enslaves us. It is time to set yourself free to live the abundant life God intended for you.
"The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a slave to the lender." - Pr 22:7
Simply exercise some self control, a little discipline and make a rule to stop the abuse and use of credit for frivolous items. Stop living a life of consumption. It's your choice.
Born in 1928, G-ma is not ignorant to difficult times. Consider the Great Depression of the 1930's, WWII and all the food rations, the Korean War, Vietnam, etc. She was 46 years old when she went back to school to become a beautician (never too old to start again). She finished her career by selling her beauty salon after 13 years of ownership (a late life entreprenuer).
Yes, she had some lesson's for us.
What about our generation? We live in a time when credit companies successfully taught our next generations the power of play today, pay later. Today we are facing one of, what history will call, the worst economic meltdowns in American history. It all revolves around the use and abuse of credit to buy homes, cars, college educations, and all kinds of credit card abuses...
Grandma suggested on several occassions to open a seperate savings account to save money for the different important goals we have. If we want new tires, set aside $5-10, or 20 every time we get a chance. Before we know it, we'll have the money we need for the new tires.
What about a vacation? Will it cost $1200? Find a way to save $100 per month until you have enough for the trip.
The point is simple, savings will never hurt you, but credit has a way of destroying lives. Too many of us believe we can't survive without good credit. I don't believe it. God blesses us from his overflowing abundance. We bless ourselves from a lack of abundance, i.e. use of credit. Our impatience pushes us to use credit to falsely create a world of "blessings" which are not really our own, but are borrowed. The use of credit slowly enslaves us. It is time to set yourself free to live the abundant life God intended for you.
"The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a slave to the lender." - Pr 22:7
Simply exercise some self control, a little discipline and make a rule to stop the abuse and use of credit for frivolous items. Stop living a life of consumption. It's your choice.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
High School Course
We live in the Greatest Country in the United States. We dominate the World's oceans, and control 80% of the World's commerce. The United States is the force leading the way for the future. I'm not convinced that we will continue this trend, however.
Our nation is full of consumers. Not only do we control commerce, we also consume 65% of the World's goods and services.
So how do we change our future? Let me tell you my opinion...
I truly believe education is the key to a different future. I do not believe our current educational system provides the key to the future. No, our children need so much more than that.
Our current system was great when it was designed during the agriculture economy that founded our country. It even worked well during the industrial age. The problem today is that our children are being taught how to to read and write and get a good job in a society and economy no longer driven by agriculture or industrial production.
We are now part of the fastest changing economy we've ever known. The information age requires a different set of tools.
1. First, our children must learn what money is and how money works. Money is not merely a tool for consumption. When money is used this way, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.
2. Second, our children must learn new skills in how they earn. Do they own their own business? Do they own multiple business'? Do they learn how to have multiple streams of income?
Wild, uncontrolled spending has proven itself to create an entitlement mindset in our society. This is a problem and must be brought to an end in our society.
That is why I am working on a new course for high school students to teach children how to begin their adult lives with a solid financial foundation. Production on this course is in place. I'm working round the clock to develop and market this new tool. It is imperative to our future as a country for our children to learn how to manage their money and our future responsibly.
For more information please stay tuned.
Our nation is full of consumers. Not only do we control commerce, we also consume 65% of the World's goods and services.
So how do we change our future? Let me tell you my opinion...
I truly believe education is the key to a different future. I do not believe our current educational system provides the key to the future. No, our children need so much more than that.
Our current system was great when it was designed during the agriculture economy that founded our country. It even worked well during the industrial age. The problem today is that our children are being taught how to to read and write and get a good job in a society and economy no longer driven by agriculture or industrial production.
We are now part of the fastest changing economy we've ever known. The information age requires a different set of tools.
1. First, our children must learn what money is and how money works. Money is not merely a tool for consumption. When money is used this way, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.
2. Second, our children must learn new skills in how they earn. Do they own their own business? Do they own multiple business'? Do they learn how to have multiple streams of income?
Wild, uncontrolled spending has proven itself to create an entitlement mindset in our society. This is a problem and must be brought to an end in our society.
That is why I am working on a new course for high school students to teach children how to begin their adult lives with a solid financial foundation. Production on this course is in place. I'm working round the clock to develop and market this new tool. It is imperative to our future as a country for our children to learn how to manage their money and our future responsibly.
For more information please stay tuned.
Are We Officially 'Consumer Nation' ?
We're on Vacation in Northern Iowa. The town I am from is busting at the seams with 2000 residents. We have 1 small grocery store, an 8 room motel (where we are staying), and fewer than 5 restaurants in town.
We decided to venture out a little yesterday to make the 110 mile trek to the Mall of America. Boosting the largest mall in the United States it has 4 levels with an indoor aquarium, amusement park, and 2 mile circumference lined with stores of all varieties. It was truly an amazing spectacle. I've never been to a shopping mall quite like it.
What's my point you ask?
I didn't realize how much a part of our culture was the shopping experience until I realized we made a 220 mile round trip to go to a mall. Wow! We collected our magnet for the refrigerator at home (that's our family tradition to record all the places we've visited), and then headed back after dinner.
At breakfast, I asked my grand parents about their favorite vacation. I got a great story about a shopping trip to Mexico.
Is that what we do in America? Are we such a consumer nation that we look for ways to vacation near a place where we can buy more stuff?
At the mall, each of my children had $5 dollars they could buy something to remember their trip. They each chose a toy they could buy at the Wal-Mart 5 minutes from home. Goes to show, they don't care so much about all the glitz of the "great shopping spree vacation". They know what they like and it doesn't matter where they buy it.
Interesting observations from the road...
We decided to venture out a little yesterday to make the 110 mile trek to the Mall of America. Boosting the largest mall in the United States it has 4 levels with an indoor aquarium, amusement park, and 2 mile circumference lined with stores of all varieties. It was truly an amazing spectacle. I've never been to a shopping mall quite like it.
What's my point you ask?
I didn't realize how much a part of our culture was the shopping experience until I realized we made a 220 mile round trip to go to a mall. Wow! We collected our magnet for the refrigerator at home (that's our family tradition to record all the places we've visited), and then headed back after dinner.
At breakfast, I asked my grand parents about their favorite vacation. I got a great story about a shopping trip to Mexico.
Is that what we do in America? Are we such a consumer nation that we look for ways to vacation near a place where we can buy more stuff?
At the mall, each of my children had $5 dollars they could buy something to remember their trip. They each chose a toy they could buy at the Wal-Mart 5 minutes from home. Goes to show, they don't care so much about all the glitz of the "great shopping spree vacation". They know what they like and it doesn't matter where they buy it.
Interesting observations from the road...
Sunday, April 26, 2009
The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the Tree...
We're traveling 1100 miles to Northern Iowa today from Albuquerque, NM. This morning on our way out of the mid-way hotel, we stopped for gas where I had one of the best laughs I've had in quite some time.
As we pulled to the pump, a family was on the other side. Dad was pumping with a twisted, bothered look on his face. The kids were running around the car and climbing on the island between the pumps. As I climed out to pump my gas and do my thing, it happened.
The following conversation occurred...
The youngest asked a simple question, "Dad, can we go in the store?"
Dad, "No."
Son, flashing his little wallet, "But, I've got my money."
Dad, "No, put your money away."
Son, "Common Dad, I'll give you a dollar."
Dad, "I said No, we're not going in."
Son, "A Dollar, I'll pay."
Dad, "Get in the car!"
Then, as I stood there laughing, Dad caught my eye. He looked at our Suburban and told me, "I've got 3 kids I'd like to stuff in your car and run away..."
I laughed.
Wow! Do kids inherantly learn the ability to buy because they have cash in their pockets? I don't think so.
I believe there are two forces at work:
1. Marketing and Advertising masters are working diligently to brand our children to buy, buy, buy their products. They are doing a brilliant job of teaching our children and adults that we have 'earned' and 'deserve' to treat ourselves.
2. Parents need to teach children, through their example, to slow down on our levels of consumption. The United States is a consumer nation. This phenominon is a virus called 'entitlement' changing the economics of our country. If parents don't learn to stop consuming, entitlement will take over more than we've already seen.
Mom, Dad, I'm sorry, but the truth of the matter is that raising your children is completely up to you. It always has been and always will be. The cycle goes like this...man meets woman, man marries woman, child comes into the world, parents raise children, children go into world, repeat...
When children are allowed to manipulate to get what they want, parents are failing. It's time parents become parents and discipline their children.
As we pulled to the pump, a family was on the other side. Dad was pumping with a twisted, bothered look on his face. The kids were running around the car and climbing on the island between the pumps. As I climed out to pump my gas and do my thing, it happened.
The following conversation occurred...
The youngest asked a simple question, "Dad, can we go in the store?"
Dad, "No."
Son, flashing his little wallet, "But, I've got my money."
Dad, "No, put your money away."
Son, "Common Dad, I'll give you a dollar."
Dad, "I said No, we're not going in."
Son, "A Dollar, I'll pay."
Dad, "Get in the car!"
Then, as I stood there laughing, Dad caught my eye. He looked at our Suburban and told me, "I've got 3 kids I'd like to stuff in your car and run away..."
I laughed.
Wow! Do kids inherantly learn the ability to buy because they have cash in their pockets? I don't think so.
I believe there are two forces at work:
1. Marketing and Advertising masters are working diligently to brand our children to buy, buy, buy their products. They are doing a brilliant job of teaching our children and adults that we have 'earned' and 'deserve' to treat ourselves.
2. Parents need to teach children, through their example, to slow down on our levels of consumption. The United States is a consumer nation. This phenominon is a virus called 'entitlement' changing the economics of our country. If parents don't learn to stop consuming, entitlement will take over more than we've already seen.
Mom, Dad, I'm sorry, but the truth of the matter is that raising your children is completely up to you. It always has been and always will be. The cycle goes like this...man meets woman, man marries woman, child comes into the world, parents raise children, children go into world, repeat...
When children are allowed to manipulate to get what they want, parents are failing. It's time parents become parents and discipline their children.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
True Cost of Low Credit Scores on a Mortgage
Proverbs 27 "If you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you."
Have you ever considered the cost of damaged or 'bruised' credit?
Missing a payment can't be that big of a deal can it?
Well, take a look at this breakdown of 4 different tiers of credit scores used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to risk base price mortgage loans.
Over the first 10 years of the loan, the differences are staggering and can cost up to $16,000 or more on a $175,000 purchase of a home. Look at the difference between a 699 FICO score and a 700 FICO score.
There has never been a time when credit scoring is more important than it is today in the current state of the credit markets.
Do yourself a favor, get well versed on what actions affect your credit scores. Take care to protect your credit. It is so important and could potentially save you thousands of dollars.
Have you ever considered the cost of damaged or 'bruised' credit?
Missing a payment can't be that big of a deal can it?
Well, take a look at this breakdown of 4 different tiers of credit scores used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to risk base price mortgage loans.
Over the first 10 years of the loan, the differences are staggering and can cost up to $16,000 or more on a $175,000 purchase of a home. Look at the difference between a 699 FICO score and a 700 FICO score.
There has never been a time when credit scoring is more important than it is today in the current state of the credit markets.
Do yourself a favor, get well versed on what actions affect your credit scores. Take care to protect your credit. It is so important and could potentially save you thousands of dollars.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Walk with Determination to Reach Your Goal
Wow! Is all I can say about this amazing man!
What does this have to do with Fiscal Stewardship and Consider the Ant you ask? Let me tell you. As I journey through this life, no matter how many little ants I see struggling in their little Ant colonies, I see absolute resolve to do what they do.
In our financial lives, money comes and money goes. The difference between those who succeed and those who do not is whether they are willing to keep walking or just give up their journey.
This video is an Extreme example of just that paradigm. Inspiration, Devotion, Dedication, Character, Perserverance, Endurance, Vision, and Total Committment. Isn't that what this journey is all about?
In the 2006 film, Pursuit of Happyness, Will Smith played a father by the name of Chris Gardner. I had a chance to meet Chris in June of 2007. In the movie, he looks his son in the eyes and says "Don't ever let anyone tell you, you can't do it, not even me!" Great words to live by.
As you watch this video, I hope you are inspired to take your next dream to the next level. As Winston Churchill said many years ago, Never, Never, Never, Never Give up!
What does this have to do with Fiscal Stewardship and Consider the Ant you ask? Let me tell you. As I journey through this life, no matter how many little ants I see struggling in their little Ant colonies, I see absolute resolve to do what they do.
In our financial lives, money comes and money goes. The difference between those who succeed and those who do not is whether they are willing to keep walking or just give up their journey.
This video is an Extreme example of just that paradigm. Inspiration, Devotion, Dedication, Character, Perserverance, Endurance, Vision, and Total Committment. Isn't that what this journey is all about?
In the 2006 film, Pursuit of Happyness, Will Smith played a father by the name of Chris Gardner. I had a chance to meet Chris in June of 2007. In the movie, he looks his son in the eyes and says "Don't ever let anyone tell you, you can't do it, not even me!" Great words to live by.
As you watch this video, I hope you are inspired to take your next dream to the next level. As Winston Churchill said many years ago, Never, Never, Never, Never Give up!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Consider the Ant...First Time Home Buyers?
Buying your first home can be an amazing undertaking with all kinds of emotions ranging from absolute bliss all the way to extreme fear and panic! Well, don't worry my friends. Together with a good friend of mine in the mortgage industry, we are creating our next book in the Consider the Ant Series specifically for First Time Home Buyers...
All I can say is this...
First:
"Make plans by seeking advice; If you wage war, obtain guidance." Pr 20:18
Seek lots of advice and don't allow your emotions to get too carried away and lead you to ruin. Use many advisers, and you'll find a greater degree of success will follow.
Second:
"It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way." Pr 19:2
Take your time and gain proper education. You don' t have a home today, and you'll have it for many years to come. Don't be hasty in this decision. Relax, everything is going to be just fine.
All I can say is this...
First:
"Make plans by seeking advice; If you wage war, obtain guidance." Pr 20:18
Seek lots of advice and don't allow your emotions to get too carried away and lead you to ruin. Use many advisers, and you'll find a greater degree of success will follow.
Second:
"It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way." Pr 19:2
Take your time and gain proper education. You don' t have a home today, and you'll have it for many years to come. Don't be hasty in this decision. Relax, everything is going to be just fine.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Consider the Ant...the book
It's nearly here!
Wow! I can't believe it's been 2.5 years since the work began on this project! Well, I can honestly say, that if there has ever been anything I've been passionate about in work, this is it!
The excitement level is high and the energy to publish is upon us. I am absolutely thrilled to be at the point we're at. I completed a mock up of the cover over the weekend and the appendix pages that needed to be finished.
We're looking at different publishing companies as well as literary agents now to hit the road with it!
Another very cool thing I have to mention is the endorsement of my Good Friend's company Moola Monsters! They have taken the very simple trading card games and turned them into a games system to teach younger kids about the power of fiscal responsibility. I've listened on the phone as he used the cards to create behavioral disciplines with his children. The kids desire to "earn" new cards so they can "exchange" them for the things they want is absolutely brilliant!
As I teach Fiscal Stewardship (c) to older kids and couples, Moola Monsters LLC has created a way to reach our youth starting at age 4 and 5. Check them out on the web at http://www.moolamonsters.com.
Wow! I can't believe it's been 2.5 years since the work began on this project! Well, I can honestly say, that if there has ever been anything I've been passionate about in work, this is it!
The excitement level is high and the energy to publish is upon us. I am absolutely thrilled to be at the point we're at. I completed a mock up of the cover over the weekend and the appendix pages that needed to be finished.
We're looking at different publishing companies as well as literary agents now to hit the road with it!
Another very cool thing I have to mention is the endorsement of my Good Friend's company Moola Monsters! They have taken the very simple trading card games and turned them into a games system to teach younger kids about the power of fiscal responsibility. I've listened on the phone as he used the cards to create behavioral disciplines with his children. The kids desire to "earn" new cards so they can "exchange" them for the things they want is absolutely brilliant!
As I teach Fiscal Stewardship (c) to older kids and couples, Moola Monsters LLC has created a way to reach our youth starting at age 4 and 5. Check them out on the web at http://www.moolamonsters.com.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Consider the Ant
Have you considered the Ant lately?
I was thinking the other day about the intensity and focus with which the Ant does his work. When I was 19 years old, I framed houses in a very nice custom home development in Flower Mound, Tx. For my lunch breaks many days, I went to a little picinic area next to the lake and ate my balogne sandwich for the first 10 minutes and rest or read for the next 40 minutes before heading back to the job site.
On many days, I laid on the bench watching the Ants climb over one another carrying their load 10 times their size as if it was no problem. They didn't fight one another, they just did what they needed to do to get the job done.
What was the job?
I don't know for sure. I guess they were providing either food or building supplies for their nest.
Amazing isn't it? Food and Shelter. Our basic needs.
How are you doing in these areas? Are you focused or is the new car a priority? The new gaming system? The latest HDTV LCD Super Plasma 80" flat panel with Digital programing capabilities? What about your career?
Next question. Are you financing your future for today's simple pleasures? The Ant went out and got what he needed for today and for the winter months ahead. The Ant was always planning and working forward. Ants are incredible Forward thinking little beings.
What about it? 401k? IRA? Real Estate investments? Pension Plan? Life Insurance? Disability Insurance? Trust? Estate Planning? Stock Market? Business creating passive income?
All of these things should be considered if you consider yourself an Ant in Fiscal Stewardship. it's a whole lot more than just paying the bills today.
I was thinking the other day about the intensity and focus with which the Ant does his work. When I was 19 years old, I framed houses in a very nice custom home development in Flower Mound, Tx. For my lunch breaks many days, I went to a little picinic area next to the lake and ate my balogne sandwich for the first 10 minutes and rest or read for the next 40 minutes before heading back to the job site.
On many days, I laid on the bench watching the Ants climb over one another carrying their load 10 times their size as if it was no problem. They didn't fight one another, they just did what they needed to do to get the job done.
What was the job?
I don't know for sure. I guess they were providing either food or building supplies for their nest.
Amazing isn't it? Food and Shelter. Our basic needs.
How are you doing in these areas? Are you focused or is the new car a priority? The new gaming system? The latest HDTV LCD Super Plasma 80" flat panel with Digital programing capabilities? What about your career?
Next question. Are you financing your future for today's simple pleasures? The Ant went out and got what he needed for today and for the winter months ahead. The Ant was always planning and working forward. Ants are incredible Forward thinking little beings.
What about it? 401k? IRA? Real Estate investments? Pension Plan? Life Insurance? Disability Insurance? Trust? Estate Planning? Stock Market? Business creating passive income?
All of these things should be considered if you consider yourself an Ant in Fiscal Stewardship. it's a whole lot more than just paying the bills today.
History of Housing Values since 1890
Watch this video with an open mind and just consider it. It is fine sounding in it's approach, however, in my estimation, Mr. Beck forgets to mention the inflationary affect on good purchased after we left the Gold Standard in 1971.
I want to hear what you think. Thanks for watching.
http://www.foxnews.com/video/index.html?playerId=videolandingpage&streamingFormat=FLASH&referralObject=3734789&referralPlaylistId=playlist
I want to hear what you think. Thanks for watching.
http://www.foxnews.com/video/index.html?playerId=videolandingpage&streamingFormat=FLASH&referralObject=3734789&referralPlaylistId=playlist
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Job Loss, Foreclosures & Pharisees
Dt 15:11 "There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land."
Mt 26:11 "The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me."
2008 was by far the worst year of my adult life when it comes to income, provision for my family, stress, worry, and the simple pleasures of a meal with my family. I work in the mortgage industry as a loan officer. 2007 and 2008 revealed many of the flaws of our industry as well as other industries very closely tied to credit.
Unfortunately, as a result of the "economic crisis" facing our country, many families are facing job losses, home losses, as well as retirement savings losses. We certainly do have some challenges before us.
In the last several days and weeks, I've had conversations with lots of people who have not immediately been affected by job loss or home loss, but may have lost money in their stock portfolio or 401k plans. The common denominator with most of the conversations has not been about helping others, but rather looking to the gov't to help clean up the mess. I've even heard many people complain and blame the people losing their jobs and homes for making bad decisions. Kind of a "Sucks to be you" attitude. Neighbors, Family, Friends, etc. are in dire straights these days.
Sure, did some people make some bad decisions? You bet they did. Did some people break the law and fraudulently scam millions from unsuspecting Americans? You betcha. Did honest people who were not beyond their means lose their job due to a down turn in the economy? Millions!
So here is my question? You claim to follow Jesus as Lord? Do you prescribe to his teachings about the poor among us? Have you seen how you can help? Are you looking are feeling sorry for yourself?
Fiscal Stewardship is all about understanding that none of it is ours to begin with. Those who have done well, Congratulations! Consider yourself blessed to have a job and a home. Dig deep and figure out how you can now bless someone less fortunate.
I am confident that the solution to our country's economic crisis lies within each one of us, not the gov't. Reach out your hand to your neighbor and lend a hand where you can. This is your community, someone's father, mother, brother or sister. It could be you.
There are plenty of ways to help. Try taking a meal. Take some groceries. Can you afford someone's house payment for a month to help them with time to find a new job? Is it within your means to provide a short term solution to care for someone?
Remember God's words in DT - "Be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land."
May God continue to bless you!
Mt 26:11 "The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me."
2008 was by far the worst year of my adult life when it comes to income, provision for my family, stress, worry, and the simple pleasures of a meal with my family. I work in the mortgage industry as a loan officer. 2007 and 2008 revealed many of the flaws of our industry as well as other industries very closely tied to credit.
Unfortunately, as a result of the "economic crisis" facing our country, many families are facing job losses, home losses, as well as retirement savings losses. We certainly do have some challenges before us.
In the last several days and weeks, I've had conversations with lots of people who have not immediately been affected by job loss or home loss, but may have lost money in their stock portfolio or 401k plans. The common denominator with most of the conversations has not been about helping others, but rather looking to the gov't to help clean up the mess. I've even heard many people complain and blame the people losing their jobs and homes for making bad decisions. Kind of a "Sucks to be you" attitude. Neighbors, Family, Friends, etc. are in dire straights these days.
Sure, did some people make some bad decisions? You bet they did. Did some people break the law and fraudulently scam millions from unsuspecting Americans? You betcha. Did honest people who were not beyond their means lose their job due to a down turn in the economy? Millions!
So here is my question? You claim to follow Jesus as Lord? Do you prescribe to his teachings about the poor among us? Have you seen how you can help? Are you looking are feeling sorry for yourself?
Fiscal Stewardship is all about understanding that none of it is ours to begin with. Those who have done well, Congratulations! Consider yourself blessed to have a job and a home. Dig deep and figure out how you can now bless someone less fortunate.
I am confident that the solution to our country's economic crisis lies within each one of us, not the gov't. Reach out your hand to your neighbor and lend a hand where you can. This is your community, someone's father, mother, brother or sister. It could be you.
There are plenty of ways to help. Try taking a meal. Take some groceries. Can you afford someone's house payment for a month to help them with time to find a new job? Is it within your means to provide a short term solution to care for someone?
Remember God's words in DT - "Be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land."
May God continue to bless you!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Economic Stimulus Plan Benefits the Housing and Mortgage Industries
Revised February 17, 2009
Just signed and sealed…a $787 Billion Stimulus Plan made up of tax cuts and spending programs aims at reviving the US economy. Although the package was scaled down from nearly $1 Trillion, it still stands as the largest anti-recession effort since World War II.
Home owners and potential homebuyers stand to gain from key provisions in this stimulus plan. Here is what we know as of today...
The following discussions are intended for you to use directly with your client either in writing or verbally.
Feel free to copy and paste as you wish
Tax Credit for Homebuyers
First-time homebuyers who purchase homes from the start of the year until the end of November 2009 may be eligible for the lower of an $8,000 or 10% of the value of the home tax credit. Remember a tax credit is very different than a tax deduction – a tax credit is equivalent to money in your hand, as opposed to a tax deduction which only reduces your taxable income.
The tax credit starts phasing out for couples with incomes above $150,000 and single filers with incomes above $75,000. Buyers will have to repay the credit if they sell their homes within three years.
Additional Housing-Related Provisions
Tax Incentives to Spur Energy Savings and Green Jobs — This provision is designed to help promote energy-efficient investments in homes by extending and expanding tax credits through 2010 for purchases such as new furnaces, energy-efficient windows and doors, or insulation.
Landmark Energy Savings — This provision provides $5 Billion for energy efficient improvements for more than one million modest-income homes through weatherization. According to some estimates, this can help modest-income families save an average of $350 a year on heating and air conditioning bills.
Repairing Public Housing and Making Key Energy Efficiency Retrofits To HUD-Assisted Housing—This provision provides a total of $6.3 Billion for increasing energy efficiency in federally supported housing programs.Specifically, it establishes a new program to upgrade HUD-sponsored low-income housing (for elderly, disabled, and Section 8) to increase energy efficiency, including new insulation, windows, and frames.
Expanding Housing Assistance—This provision increases support for several critical housing programs. It includes $2 Billion for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program to help communities purchase and rehabilitate foreclosed, vacant properties.
More Help for Homeowners in the Future
Another thing to keep an eye on in the coming weeks is President Obama’s plan to help struggling borrowers before they are faced with a default on their mortgage.
According to reports, the Obama administration is discussing plans to help borrowers who are struggling to stay afloat, but who have not yet fallen behind on their payments. At this point, details are scarce; however, reports indicate that President Obama is looking to spend approximately $50 Billion to directly help homeowners before they face foreclosure and financial disaster.
While this is good news for individual homeowners, it will likely be good for the housing industry as a whole. That’s because, assisting struggling borrowers before they default should help stop the wave of foreclosures, which are estimated to top two million this year. That, in turn, will help stabilize home prices.
The Economic Stimulus Plan is huge, and impacts a number of industries. I’ve highlighted some of the major provisions that may impact you now and in the future.
As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss how this may specifically impact you, I’d be happy to sit down with you. Just call or email me to set up an appointment.
Just signed and sealed…a $787 Billion Stimulus Plan made up of tax cuts and spending programs aims at reviving the US economy. Although the package was scaled down from nearly $1 Trillion, it still stands as the largest anti-recession effort since World War II.
Home owners and potential homebuyers stand to gain from key provisions in this stimulus plan. Here is what we know as of today...
The following discussions are intended for you to use directly with your client either in writing or verbally.
Feel free to copy and paste as you wish
Tax Credit for Homebuyers
First-time homebuyers who purchase homes from the start of the year until the end of November 2009 may be eligible for the lower of an $8,000 or 10% of the value of the home tax credit. Remember a tax credit is very different than a tax deduction – a tax credit is equivalent to money in your hand, as opposed to a tax deduction which only reduces your taxable income.
The tax credit starts phasing out for couples with incomes above $150,000 and single filers with incomes above $75,000. Buyers will have to repay the credit if they sell their homes within three years.
Additional Housing-Related Provisions
Tax Incentives to Spur Energy Savings and Green Jobs — This provision is designed to help promote energy-efficient investments in homes by extending and expanding tax credits through 2010 for purchases such as new furnaces, energy-efficient windows and doors, or insulation.
Landmark Energy Savings — This provision provides $5 Billion for energy efficient improvements for more than one million modest-income homes through weatherization. According to some estimates, this can help modest-income families save an average of $350 a year on heating and air conditioning bills.
Repairing Public Housing and Making Key Energy Efficiency Retrofits To HUD-Assisted Housing—This provision provides a total of $6.3 Billion for increasing energy efficiency in federally supported housing programs.Specifically, it establishes a new program to upgrade HUD-sponsored low-income housing (for elderly, disabled, and Section 8) to increase energy efficiency, including new insulation, windows, and frames.
Expanding Housing Assistance—This provision increases support for several critical housing programs. It includes $2 Billion for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program to help communities purchase and rehabilitate foreclosed, vacant properties.
More Help for Homeowners in the Future
Another thing to keep an eye on in the coming weeks is President Obama’s plan to help struggling borrowers before they are faced with a default on their mortgage.
According to reports, the Obama administration is discussing plans to help borrowers who are struggling to stay afloat, but who have not yet fallen behind on their payments. At this point, details are scarce; however, reports indicate that President Obama is looking to spend approximately $50 Billion to directly help homeowners before they face foreclosure and financial disaster.
While this is good news for individual homeowners, it will likely be good for the housing industry as a whole. That’s because, assisting struggling borrowers before they default should help stop the wave of foreclosures, which are estimated to top two million this year. That, in turn, will help stabilize home prices.
The Economic Stimulus Plan is huge, and impacts a number of industries. I’ve highlighted some of the major provisions that may impact you now and in the future.
As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss how this may specifically impact you, I’d be happy to sit down with you. Just call or email me to set up an appointment.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Who do You Serve? God or Money?
I'm sorry I haven't posted in quite some time. This message will mean more as I get into it.
Mt 6:24 "No one can be a slave of two masters, since either he will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot be slaves of God and of money."
As you may know, I am a mortgage banker by trade advising and helping people secure financing for their home purchases and refinances. I've been practicing in the banking and finance since 1996 when I got my start as a teller with a large National Bank.
The last 18 months we've seen some amazing things happen in banking and in our economy that have caused many huge financial institutions to fold. Now, I am not going to get into all the nuts and bolts of what happened. However, I will say that my mortgage practice has suffered greatly as a result of many of these events. Our income has been very stable over the last 9 years until this last year when we lost nearly half of our earnings in the fall out.
As you can probably imagine, God is working some pretty amazing lessons into our lives. I believe deeply that we are allowed to face challenges of many kinds to strengthen us and give us wisdom to help others in the future who may be facing many of the same challenges we've gone through.
So all that being said, God and Money. With recent events, we've felt the pinch of this passage more than ever before. We've always directed our earnings towards serving others and helping with the ministry until this year. Suddenly we were not earning enough to cover our expenses. Credit card bills grew. Savings accounts dwindled. Car payments, credit cards, student loans, and our vacation home were eating us alive.
See, when we get caught up in credit to create the appearance of blessings in our lives, money starts to slowly add the links of bondage. When we would like to give to help out, but we have to make decisions to pay the car or credit card bills, we are no longer able to serve God with the money. Rather we are serving money. Our job becomes a means to buy back our financial freedom.
Commercial advertising campaigns talk about how "priceless" memories are when we use their credit card. What about the large National Bank's slogan "I want it NOW" for their credit card campaign? Have you figured out "What's in your wallet?"
All of these lies are creating slaves of our nation. National Debt is growing as well as personal debt. Marriages are failing and health problems are growing due to financial stress.
It is time to break the chains of bondage and slavery so we can truly serve God with the abundance of what he has blessed us with rather than running out to create our own blessings and False Fantasy world that is all financed.
Consider this as we part... Ps 37:11 "The humble will inherit the land and will enjoy abundant prosperity."
Be patient and live life out of the abundance of what God has blessed you with. Don't run out and finance away your future. It may feel good for a while, but a time will come when your true master, MONEY, will come calling. Fire Money and serve the one True GOD who gives richly to those who love him. Money promises prosperity but serves up heartache. God truly does deliver on his promises.
May God bless you richly this year in prosperity like never before!
Mt 6:24 "No one can be a slave of two masters, since either he will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot be slaves of God and of money."
As you may know, I am a mortgage banker by trade advising and helping people secure financing for their home purchases and refinances. I've been practicing in the banking and finance since 1996 when I got my start as a teller with a large National Bank.
The last 18 months we've seen some amazing things happen in banking and in our economy that have caused many huge financial institutions to fold. Now, I am not going to get into all the nuts and bolts of what happened. However, I will say that my mortgage practice has suffered greatly as a result of many of these events. Our income has been very stable over the last 9 years until this last year when we lost nearly half of our earnings in the fall out.
As you can probably imagine, God is working some pretty amazing lessons into our lives. I believe deeply that we are allowed to face challenges of many kinds to strengthen us and give us wisdom to help others in the future who may be facing many of the same challenges we've gone through.
So all that being said, God and Money. With recent events, we've felt the pinch of this passage more than ever before. We've always directed our earnings towards serving others and helping with the ministry until this year. Suddenly we were not earning enough to cover our expenses. Credit card bills grew. Savings accounts dwindled. Car payments, credit cards, student loans, and our vacation home were eating us alive.
See, when we get caught up in credit to create the appearance of blessings in our lives, money starts to slowly add the links of bondage. When we would like to give to help out, but we have to make decisions to pay the car or credit card bills, we are no longer able to serve God with the money. Rather we are serving money. Our job becomes a means to buy back our financial freedom.
Commercial advertising campaigns talk about how "priceless" memories are when we use their credit card. What about the large National Bank's slogan "I want it NOW" for their credit card campaign? Have you figured out "What's in your wallet?"
All of these lies are creating slaves of our nation. National Debt is growing as well as personal debt. Marriages are failing and health problems are growing due to financial stress.
It is time to break the chains of bondage and slavery so we can truly serve God with the abundance of what he has blessed us with rather than running out to create our own blessings and False Fantasy world that is all financed.
Consider this as we part... Ps 37:11 "The humble will inherit the land and will enjoy abundant prosperity."
Be patient and live life out of the abundance of what God has blessed you with. Don't run out and finance away your future. It may feel good for a while, but a time will come when your true master, MONEY, will come calling. Fire Money and serve the one True GOD who gives richly to those who love him. Money promises prosperity but serves up heartache. God truly does deliver on his promises.
May God bless you richly this year in prosperity like never before!
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