Author: londavis@hotmail.com

Money Rule Number 6: Borrowing is Slavery

Proverbs 22: verse 7, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.”

None of us want to be a slave, yet when we borrow, we bind ourselves to someone else’s terms. The lender gains control over parts of our lives through the debts we owe. This verse doesn’t imply borrowing is a sin. Psalm 37:21 warns, “The wicked borrow and do not repay.” Sometimes borrowing is necessary, but integrity means repaying what we owe. Borrowing isn’t wicked; failing to repay is.

Americans have a love-hate relationship with debt. We must love it because we borrow so much. When the Bank of America introduced its first credit cards in 1958, Americans embraced them. By mid-2024, the average household had $8,689 in credit card debt alone, not to mention other debts.

Yet we also hate debt. We complain about it, strive to be rid of it, but continue buying on credit. This cycle burdens us, stealing our joy and peace.

Romans 13: verse 8 offers wise advice: “Owe no one anything, except to love each other.” Let love be our only debt, one that enriches everyone.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Exodus 20: verses 8 through 10.

“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God, on which you must not do any work.”

In this verse, many people focus on the idea of rest. Taking a day off is important, but what about the other six days? The answer is clear: “Six days you shall labor and do all your work.” The Sabbath reminds us of rest, but the rest of the week reminds us of our responsibility to work.

Work isn’t a punishment. God created us with a purpose, and that purpose includes work. Even in Genesis, before sin entered the world, Adam was tasked with tending the garden. Work was always part of God’s plan—a way to create, serve, and bring beauty into the world.

While we might grumble about work, let’s remember that it allows us to contribute, provide, and find fulfillment. Work reflects God’s image; He worked in creating the universe, and when we work with gratitude and purpose, it becomes an act of devotion..

One of the blessings of work is its financial reward. As Proverbs 10: verse 4 says, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” Hard work is key to financial well-being, while laziness leads to lack.

So, work is not just a duty—it’s a rule for managing life and resources well.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Money Rule #4 – Diversify

Ecclesiastes 11: verse 2

“Divide your portion among seven, or even eight, for you do not know what disaster may befall the land.”

This verse reminds us of the importance of not putting all our eggs in one basket. Life is unpredictable—job loss, health issues, or economic downturns can easily wipe out a single source of income. The solution? Diversify your income streams.

Most people already practice this principle to some extent. Many households rely on two incomes to make ends meet—one from each partner. Though it may feel burdensome, having multiple streams of income is a form of security. Solomon’s wisdom tells us to aim for seven or eight sources, but the main takeaway is clear: don’t rely on just one.

Millionaires know this well. According to the IRS, the average millionaire has seven income sources, such as a salary, rental income, dividends, interest, capital gains, royalties, and business profits. Diversifying income isn’t just about wealth; it’s about protecting yourself against the uncertainties of life.

So, how do you diversify? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It could mean starting a side business, investing, or finding other creative ways to generate extra income. The key is to start thinking beyond just one paycheck.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.

Money Rule #3: Live within a BUDGET

Let’s read Luke 14: verse 28.

“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”  

Most people do not like budgets, and in that verse, you did not hear the word “budget,” but it certainly is there. Look at the words, “Sit down and estimate the cost.” That phrase means BUDGET.

A budget is more than just numbers on paper—it is a roadmap to shared goals. Whether saving for a home, planning a vacation, or preparing for college expenses, a budget helps family members focus on their priorities. It can foster open discussions about needs versus wants, creating a sense of unity around shared financial goals.

Without a budget, families risk falling into debt, missing savings opportunities, and living paycheck to paycheck. I love the quote, “A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.” – Dave Ramsey

You cannot out-earn the need for budgeting. I know a man who lives in a neighborhood where a single lot for houses cost more than a million dollars. When the financial crisis of 2008 hit, foreclosure signs went up all over the area. If you want to have what you need when you need it, you must plan a budget and stick to it.

By the way, everyone does have a budget, either one they set or one the creditor set for them. Wise people set their own budget!

I’m Lonnie Davis and these are thoughts worth thinking.

Money Rule Number 2: Be Generous.

Generosity is not about how much you have, but about being willing to share what you have, whether little or much.

Let’s read Proverbs 11:24-25.

“One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”

This verse reveals a powerful truth: the path to prosperity is not through hoarding but through giving. Here, we see a mystery that runs counter to common logic: by giving freely, we gain wealth, and by withholding, we lose wealth.

This truth challenges the notion that accumulating wealth requires solely a self-focused drive and ambition. Instead, scripture encourages us to view our resources as blessings meant to be shared, with the promise that in doing so, we too will be blessed. This is the meaning of the saying, “God blesses you so that you can be a blessing to others.”

To put things bluntly.

Never, never be stingy.
Be a good tipper.
Use your finances to assist others.
Sacrifice in your hospitality.
Cover expenses for others.

Generosity, then, is more than just an action—it’s an investment in our own future. By giving, we set a spiritual principle into motion. God’s economy is one of mutual exchange, where our own open hands lead to our abundance. 

I will leave you with the words of Jesus, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.” 

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Rule Number 1 comes from Proverbs 6:6-8.

“Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise. It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”

So what do ants teach us about dealing with wealth, finances, or money? Here it is: Take your time. The ant makes a consistent effort. It doesn’t wait for someone to tell it what to do. Instead, it works daily, bit by bit, gathering food and preparing for the future. This tiny creature shows us that big accomplishments often come from steady, consistent effort, not from sudden bursts of hard work.

We can learn from the ant by applying ourselves steadily, even when the task seems small or the results aren’t immediately visible. The power lies in being consistent and faithful in our efforts.

Consistent effort in managing our finances—saving a little at a time and spending wisely—builds a solid foundation for future security. It’s not about sudden windfalls or luck; it’s about the daily decisions we make. As Proverbs 21: verse 5 tells us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” Ben Franklin put it this way, “A penny saved is a penny earned.” 

It may not seem like it is, but that is the way of the ant.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Our text today is Hebrews 13: verse 5.

“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'”  

Our verse today urges us to keep our lives free from the love of money. Let’s start by saying there is nothing wrong with money or in asking for a raise, but don’t make money the love of your life. Even with this warning, marriage counselors confirm that finances are one of the main reasons for divorce.

The American dream used to be to own your own home. Sometime in the past decades, that all changed. The American dream now seems to be to win the lottery, to get rich quick!

In America, we live in a land of plenty. Consider this fact: In 84% of the world, the top 1% earns an annual income of between $30,000 and $50,000. In America, a family of four is considered poor if they earn $31,200 a year. Indeed, God has been good to us. We were born into the richest economy and the richest time in the world’s history.

Jesus said, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” Obviously, since you don’t go to church and listen to me preach, I have no motive except to share with you what God said of this important subject.

Over the next ten days, I will share ten Bible teachings on money. 

I’m Lonnie Davis. See you tomorrow with Rule #1

Today’s Scripture is Psalms 103:13-14.  

“As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He is mindful that we are dust.”

We often think we need to be perfect for God to love us, but that is far from the truth. God knows our weaknesses and flaws. He created us, and He is well aware that we are made of dust—fragile, human, and prone to mistakes. Just as a loving father understands the limits of his child, God understands our limits and shows us compassion.

The takeaway today is that we do not need to be perfect for God to love us. God knows we struggle, and His love isn’t based on our perfection but on His great mercy and grace. 

David committed murder and adultery, but God loved him anyway.
Peter denied Jesus, but God loved him anyway.
Moses murdered and Egyptian, but God loved him anyway
Paul persecuted the church, but God loved him anyway.

Obviously this list could be expanded, but this is enough to remind us that God has compassion on us, because he knows that we are dust.

“God’s mercy is bigger than any mistake you’ve made.” Take heart, knowing God’s love reaches us even in our weakest moments.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Psalms 101:3.

“I will set no worthless thing before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me.”

In this verse, we see David’s deep commitment to protecting his heart by carefully choosing what he allows his eyes to behold. It’s a powerful reminder that what we see and dwell on can take root in our hearts. 

David’s decision to avoid “worthless things” tells us that he understood the power of seemingly small influences. He chose to distance himself from anything that could lead him astray. 

Yet, we sometimes try to see how close we can get to the edge without falling over. We tell ourselves we can look but not touch, admire, or indulge. One writer said, “What makes resisting temptation difficult for many people is that they don’t want to discourage it completely.” 

We struggle because, deep down, part of us isn’t ready to let go entirely. 

In 386 AD, Augustine, a Christian teacher said, “Grant me chastity…but not yet.” We too, may keep that harmful influence just within reach, believing we’re strong enough to handle it. But temptation doesn’t announce itself with a trumpet blast; it sneaks in subtly, growing stronger over time until a small compromise becomes a major stumbling block.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Psalms 100:5.

“For the LORD is good; His loving devotion endures forever; His faithfulness continues to all generations.”

Our faith often focuses on our devotion to God—how we worship, follow, and obey Him. Yet, this verse reminds us that God is also devoted to us, reaching down with endless love and faithfulness. His love isn’t temporary or conditional; it’s a love that extends across time, embracing every generation, including ours.

Augustine once said, “God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.” This quote beautifully captures the personal nature of God’s devotion. God doesn’t see us as a distant crowd; He sees each of us individually and loves us with a tender and constant commitment.

When we reflect on this truth, it should fill us with both awe and gratitude. Knowing that the Creator of the universe is devoted to us gives us security and hope. No matter our struggles or doubts, God’s devotion will never fade or falter. He remains with us, faithfully devoted, through every joy and challenge.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Psalms 34:8.

“O taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.”

In this verse we’re invited to personally experience the kindness and love of God. This verse calls us to “taste and see” – to go beyond hearing about God’s goodness and to experience it for ourselves. 

Just as a meal can only be fully appreciated when we taste it, God’s love and kindness become real to us when we open ourselves to trust and rely on Him.

Faith in God is not just a belief in the unknown. As the quote says, “Faith is not a leap in the dark; it’s a step into the light.” When we take that step toward God, we step into His love, finding refuge in His presence. This act of trust leads us into a life marked by blessings and a deep assurance of His care.

The promise here is simple: if we draw near to God, we will find that He is good. But if we stand at a distance to God and complain about his ways, then we have not tasted him, and so we cannot know that the Lord is good. Get closer to him, taste for yourself. He IS good.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Luke 1:46-49.

Then Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! For He has looked with favor on the humble state of His servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed. For the Mighty One has done great things for me.”

Why did God choose Mary, a young girl, to be Jesus’ mother? Out of all the wise and noble women, He chose a humble girl from a small town. Today’s Scripture gives us insight into why Mary was the perfect choice.

First, Mary rejoiced in God. We rejoice in many things—houses, cars, careers, and more. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying blessings, but let your first joy be in the Lord. Above all, Mary’s heart was filled with joy for God, and joy is something God can use.

Second, Mary saw herself as a humble servant. She didn’t see herself as special or deserving. She knew her role as God’s servant and embraced it. To be used by God, we need to set aside pride and see ourselves as vessels ready to serve.

Finally, Mary believed God had great plans for her. She didn’t feel insignificant. She recognized God was doing something extraordinary in her life and embraced it with faith. Mary wasn’t self-centered; she focused on God’s blessings and His purpose for her.

Let’s take Mary’s example to heart. No matter where you are in life—young or old, feeling qualified or not—remember, God isn’t looking for perfection. He’s looking for hearts that rejoice in Him, spirits ready to serve, and faith that believes He can do great things through us. You don’t need to be extraordinary; you just need to be willing. When you are, God will use you in ways beyond anything you can imagine.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Matthew 8:13.  

“Then Jesus said to the centurion, ‘Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.’ And his servant was healed at that moment.”

To accomplish anything, you must first believe. The story of the centurion shows us that belief is not just an idea in our minds but a powerful force that moves mountains. When the centurion came to Jesus, he already believed that Jesus could heal his servant. His faith was so strong that Jesus only needed to say the word, and healing would take place. The centurion’s belief paved the way for a miracle.

Saint Augustine once said, “Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.” This captures the heart of Matthew 8:13. Before any change happens, we need to have faith in what we cannot yet see. Faith is the beginning of every significant accomplishment—whether it’s personal growth, helping others, or overcoming life’s challenges. Without that first step of belief, nothing else can follow.

Today, let’s remember that faith is more than just a feeling; it’s a decision to trust in God’s power and promises, even when we cannot see the outcome.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Matthew 7: verse 21.

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of My Father who is in heaven.”

This verse reminds us that true discipleship is not about words alone. It’s not enough to simply acknowledge God; true discipleship means living in obedience to His will. Jesus warns that many will call Him “Lord” without truly following His ways. Discipleship requires a faithful heart that seeks to align with God’s purpose, making choices that reflect His commands.

C.S. Lewis once said, “Obedience is the key that opens every door.” This means that genuine faith naturally leads to action. Through obedience, we show our love for God, and it’s this commitment that marks us as true followers. Our words of faith are proven by how we live—by doing the will of our Heavenly Father.

God is looking for hearts committed to His purpose, not just voices saying His name. True discipleship means allowing His guidance to shape our lives and living out our faith in all that we do.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Psalms 37:1-2.

“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.”

In these verses we are reminded not to worry about those who do wrong and seem to succeed. Sometimes it feels unfair when people who do bad things appear to prosper while those who try to do good struggle. But God tells us not to fret or be envious. Their success is like grass that withers—it is only temporary. Our call is to remain patient, to trust in God, and to stay focused on doing what is right.

This takes patience and faith. God sees the bigger picture and knows the right time to make things right. Our job is to keep living righteously, even when it’s hard or seems to go unnoticed. The reward for patience isn’t just peace of mind—it’s knowing that God’s will ultimately prevails.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Exodus 20:4.

“You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.”

God knows the human heart tends to find security in what it can see and touch. In Exodus 20:4, God warns His people about the danger of idolatry. The truth is, anything that takes God’s rightful place in our lives becomes an idol. We might not shape idols out of gold or wood today, but we can certainly make them in other ways. Our careers, our possessions, even our relationships can become idols when they hold a place in our hearts that belongs only to God.

As the quote says, “The danger of loving something more than God is that it becomes your god.” It’s easy to let our devotion shift from God to things that promise comfort or status. But those things, no matter how valuable, can’t truly fulfill us. God alone deserves our highest love and devotion.

This command is a call to examine our hearts honestly. Are we giving more love, attention, or devotion to anything other than God? If we are, it’s time to put God back in His rightful place in our lives.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.ing.

Today’s Scripture is Psalms 27:10.

“Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”

There are times when those we depend on may let us down. Even the people closest to us, like family and friends, may not always be there. But this verse reminds us of something amazing: God will never leave us. His love for us goes beyond the limitations of human relationships. When everyone else seems to have turned away, God remains our solid foundation.

Dependence on God over people is not always easy. We naturally look to those around us for support, but God calls us to a deeper trust—one that rests in Him, above all else. As one quote says, “When God is all you have, you have all you need.” This captures the heart of Psalms 27:10. No matter what we face or who might abandon us, God is enough. He is our steady rock when everything else changes.

Learning to lean on God instead of people helps us find true peace. People, even with the best intentions, can fail us. God, however, is faithful and will be there for us in the end. If this doesn’t seem true, then it is not yet the end.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Genesis 18:14.

“Is anything too difficult for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you—in about a year—and Sarah will have a son.”

In this verse, God speaks to Abraham and Sarah, reminding them that His power has no limits. Sarah was 90 years old, past the age of having children, and yet God promised her a son. For us, it’s a reminder that no situation is ever too hard for God. He can do things beyond our imagination, even when our circumstances look impossible.

The takeaway here is simple: God’s power is limitless. Whenever we face challenges that seem like mountains, it’s important to remember, “For every mountain, God has a plan.” God’s power can move mountains, open doors, and make a way where there seems to be no way. Our task is to trust Him fully, even when we don’t see how things will work out.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Genesis 8:22.

“While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.”

Everything in life changes. Seasons shift, days turn into nights, and the cycle continues. This has always been the way of the world, and it will always be so. As we navigate our lives, we must remain prepared for what comes next.

Change is unavoidable, and God emphasizes this through the constant rhythms of nature. Just as there are seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, our lives follow a similar pattern. Each season has its own significance and blessings.

It is crucial to learn to appreciate the season you are in, whether it’s a time of growth, rest, or challenge. Embrace the current season and look forward to the next, trusting in God’s plan for every phase of your life.

By accepting that everything changes, we can find peace in the steadfastness of God’s promises. Be prepared for the changes ahead and value the present moment.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.

Today’s Scripture is Genesis 22:8.

“Abraham answered, ‘God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.’ And the two of them went on together.”

There are moments when we face uncertainties and wonder how our needs will be met. Abraham found himself in such a situation when asked to offer his son Isaac. Yet, he told his son, “God himself will provide the lamb.” This shows a deep trust that God’s provision comes in His timing, not ours.

We often want quick answers and immediate solutions. But faith means trusting even when we can’t see the whole picture. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Abraham took that step, believing that God would provide at the right moment.

This verse reminds us that God’s timing is perfect. He knows our needs and will provide for them, even if it’s not when we expect. Our part is to keep moving forward in faith, trusting that He will meet our needs at just the right time.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.