Oh man. This blog has been a labor of love. This topic is one that I believe so strongly in, and it’s also one that I feel completely ill-equipped to talk about.
Here’s the truth. Trent and I have done a lot of things right in the realm of finances (thank you Lord), but we still have a lot to learn. We’ve tried to be intentional both in our own finances and in teaching our kids about money, but let’s be honest. They’re 7 and 10 and the jury’s still out.
With that being said, we truly believe that the best time to learn wisdom is at a young age. We want to encourage you to teach your kids about money or the world (in all its dysfunction) will do it for you. #nothanks
So, without further adieu, here are three things we believe kids (read everyone) should understand about money.
1. YOUR MONEY IS NOT ACTUALLY YOURS
- “The highest heavens and the earth and everything in it all belong to the LORD your God.” Deuteronomy 10:14
- When we think our money belongs to us, then we can do whatever we want with it. We want. We get. When we see money as a way to satisfy our cravings we’ll get ourselves into some seriously sticky situations. What we need to realize is that our money is really God’s. He’s given it to us to steward (to handle for Him). And someday we’re going to give an account for that handling. Realizing we’re going to be held accountable for the management of God’s money will help keep us on a healthy path and bring us more financial satisfaction, no matter how much money there is in our bank account.
2. MONEY IS A TOOL
- Tool: a device or implement, especially one held in the hand, used to carry out a particular function. (Oxford Languages)
- A hammer is meant to drive nails into a board. Money is meant to help us buy the things we need and meet the needs of others.
- A hammer can also (though we wouldn’t recommend it) be used to hit things when we’re angry. Used for the wrong purposes any tool can cause destruction. If we’re using money to buy things when we’re sad, or if we’re looking to money for some sort of status or security, then we’re using the tool for the wrong purpose. God is who we should run to for security, identity, and healing. If we try to use money for those things, then we’ll end up with destructive habits.
3. MONEY DOESN’T GROW ON TREES
- “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” Proverbs 10:4
- You’ve probably heard that phrase before; Money doesn’t grow on trees. It’s pretty much in every parent’s vocabulary. Here’s why we love it. Because kids need to understand how the exchange of goods for services works. Have you ever told one of your kids that you didn’t have money for something they wanted, and they say, “Just use your credit card?” It’s because kids don’t understand how money works. Don’t let them think there’s an endless supply of money behind your debit and credit cards. Explain it to them.
- One thing we do with our kids is pay them for certain chores. Then, we teach them what to do with the money they earn. (More on that in a later blog). Having a certain amount of cash in their possession helps them understand that after buying something they have less money. And if they keep buying the money runs out. Imagine how much more equipped they’ll be for adulthood if we teach our kids about money when they’re young!
Ugh, there’s so much more to be said, but I think this is a great place to end. Did your parents teach you about money when you were young? I’d love to hear how that worked out for you. Are you actively teaching your kids about money? Let us know how you’re doing that so we can learn from your success!
Because there’s a better way,
Trent + Sarah
