Last weekend I attend a conference in Michigan. One of the main topics at this conference was how to handle your finances. I gained a ton of valuable knowlegdge about finances, and I thought I would share a few tips and resources with you. Here are some helpful first steps for becoming a faithful money manager:

1. Begin giving 10% or more of your income (Malachi 3:8-11). Remember God blesses faithful givers!


2. Learn how to budget. Begin living on a spending plan. Consider using cash envelopes (www.daveramsey.com/etc/cms/index.cfm?intContentID=3461) or a tracking form (www.crown.org/pamphlets/pdfs/30-DayDiary.pdf).
   Budgeting tips: www.daveramsey.com/the_truth_about/budgeting_3457.html.cfm
   


3. Set aside $1,000 to establish an emergency fund. www.daveramsey.com/etc/cms/index.cfm?intcontentID=91#18#18


4. 
   Get free of consumer debt using the "Debt Snowball."
   See how: www.daveramsey.com/etc/cms/index.cfm?intcontentID=4055
   


5. Expand your emergency fund to cover 3 months expenses and begin saving for future needs such as a replacement vehicle.
   MUST SEE! Watch this video to see how one decision about your car can change your life: www.daveramsey.com/etc/lms/drive_free/player.cfm
   


6. Begin investing for life after age 65 using a 403b or other tax sheltered investments such as a Roth IRA.


7. Prepare or update your will. (www.crown.org/LIBRARY/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=301)