How to Teach Kids to Manage Finances
Whatever current financial situation any of us may be in currently, there are things we can all do to intentionally equip our kids to manage finances well…by being good stewards. Walt’s wise words show us exactly how scripture says we do just that!
April’s Topic: Teach Kids to “Adult” Well
A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Proverbs 31:10
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Proverbs 31:30-31
The Word of God has high regard for the Proverbs 31 woman who managed her finances well. This is portrayed as an important part of taking care of her family. As a child, I came from a family that never talked about finances, budgets or how to handle money with godly wisdom. We all worked on the family farm and other various jobs growing up so we had money. What we did not have is a clear understanding of being a good steward of that money.
As I became a follower of Christ as an 18 year old college student, I realized I needed to figure out how to manage money. My father had died when I was 13, and I was on my own working my way through college with no family financial help. I not only desired to survive financially; I wanted to learn how to thrive.
After reading the Bible, numerous books and seeking the best counsel I could find, I came to the conclusion that Godly financial management involved a rather simple formula.
Work hard as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23) + give some + save some + spend some = Good Stewardship.
- Give some is described as uniting your heart and treasure by “laying up treasure in heaven” (Matt. 6:19-21).
- Save some is exemplified in the wise example of the ant gathering in the abundance of summer and being prepared for the winter to come (Proverbs 6:6-8).
- Spend some: “Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God” (Eccl. 5:19).
As my wife and I had children we considered how to pass on our convictions to our children. Early on we gave small allowances for regular chores, and they had 3 jars where they could see their accounts grow. Later, as they started their lawnmowing “business” this was replaced by savings accounts giving them interaction with our local bank.
As they transitioned to their later teen years we assisted them in the first time they needed to file taxes, but the second time they independently did the work with me checking afterwards. Most recently our adult children took a Financial Peace course which encouraged us to do the same so we can use the same language and encourage them in their financial health.
Finally … Bravo Parents! Since you’re reading this Family Matters devo you have been Dial’d In to investing in the life of your camper. You prioritized your child’s eternal destiny and overall well-being (Luke 2:52). I pray you see an amazing return on your investment!
