Financial Freedom.

Jesus, after feeding the multitude with bread and fish, commanded: "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted." (John 6:12b). This teaching emphasizes the importance of valuing resources and preventing waste.

Recently, I gave a brief talk on Financial Freedom. Some participants were known to me, as were their consumption habits. I tried to speak impersonally, but it was almost impossible for some people not to identify themselves. In recent generations, we have observed an increase in unrestrained cravings for pleasures, satisfactions, and desires. Many parents, in an attempt to make up for their absences, resort to material goods and indulgences, often incurring debts to satisfy the whims and desires of their children, spouses, and even themselves.

The Book of Proverbs offers clear guidance on unrestrained behaviors and their consequences. "Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich." (Proverbs 21:17). Furthermore, Proverbs 23:20-21 warns: "Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags."

These texts warn that excessive behaviors, such as the love of pleasures, wine, and delicacies, along with laziness, can lead to poverty and decay. Another passage from Proverbs illustrates this warning: "I went past the field of a sluggard, past the vineyard of someone who has no sense; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man." (Proverbs 24:30-34).

Taking away the allegorical background and some religious tone, we can reflect on what pleasures, wines, delicacies, and fields represent in our lives. It is crucial to assess our level of industriousness and identify where we are wasting time and resources. To maintain or achieve financial stability and well-being, it is essential to work diligently and adopt consistent actions, highlighting the importance of moderation in consumption.

Another significant factor in impoverishment is waste. When people are satisfied, the tendency is to waste. Jesus taught us the importance of avoiding waste by saying, "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted." (John 6:12b). Consider abolishing all kinds of waste in our lives, from prolonged hot showers to accumulating unnecessary items in our homes.

Conduct a sweep of your life, identifying where there is waste, laziness, and unrestrained consumption. This exercise will help promote a more balanced and financially stable lifestyle.

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