Beat the System
Theme of the Week: Downsizing with Class
Paul Borthwick
Thursday, December 8, 2005
 1 of 1
Key Bible Verse: Doesn't life consist of more than food or clothing? … Why be like the pagans who are so deeply concerned about these things (Matthew 6:25-32)Bonus Reading: Matthew 6:19-21, 25, 31-33
My wife and I enjoy finding ways around the economic pressures of our world. Bargain hunting, using coupons, and looking for deals can help us acquire the things we need without being extravagant.
When we were engaged, Christie started looking for a wedding gown. Several of our friends had spent in excess of $1,000 for theirs, but no matter how romantic we felt, we simply couldn't rationalize such an expenditure for the sake of a six-hour afternoon. We prayed about it, and she went bargain hunting. The end result? A beautiful gown in Filenes' Basement in Boston for $29.
During my seminary days, I needed a suit for leadership in Sunday worship, but I had no suit and little money. Again, we prayed. Then we headed off to a "railroad salvage" warehouse to start shopping. For only $25 I got a Pierre Cardin suit that looked tailored to me and perfectly met my needs.
Beat the system. Used cars, discount outlets, buying in volume through cooperatives, and taking the time to research before purchasing can enhance our stewardship and cut back our spending. In the process, we can have fun.
—Paul Borthwick in How to Be a World-Class Christian
My Response: One way I've found to "beat the system" is to …
Thought to Apply: Resolve not to be poor; whatever you have, spend less.—SAMUEL JOHNSON (English writer)
Adapted from How to Be a World-Class Christian (OM Literature, 2002) by permission.
Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity. 1 of 1
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Lord, help me to hold my belongings loosely so that I'm not diverted from Your Kingdom priorities.
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