Principles of “Freedom Budgeting” with Brandon Sieben

FaithFi: Faith & Finance | Sep 18, 2024

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Show Notes

Can you name two things that don’t seem to go together—but actually do? How about freedom…and budgeting?

We hear from folks all the time who feel that living on a budget cramps their style, hems them in, and makes them feel trapped. Brandon Sieben is with us today to make the case that just the opposite is true.

Brandon Sieben is the Chairman of the Board at Compass Financial Ministry.

How Simplified Finances Lead to Peace of Mind

Although budgeting might seem restricting, it can lead to financial freedom and peace of mind. Here are the fundamental principles to consider if you’re struggling with putting together a budget:

1. Keep It Simple

The first principle of freedom budgeting is simplicity. Often, people avoid budgeting because they think it's too complicated or time-consuming. The goal is to make the process easy, so you'll stick with it, whether utilizing a simple Excel spreadsheet on the fridge to track your expenses or using a tool like the FaithFi app for simplicity and visibility.

2. Be Honest

The second principle is honesty and transparency. As Jesus said in John 8:32, "The truth will set you free," and this holds true for budgeting. Many people avoid budgeting because they fear what they’ll find—that their spending exceeds their income. Being honest about where your money is going is crucial to financial freedom.

3. Allocate Non-Negotiables First

Next, it's crucial to prioritize the "non-negotiables"—the essentials that must be paid first, such as tithing, rent, utilities, and food. After these basics are covered, you can think about discretionary spending.

4. Save Every Month

Even while playing financial defense, it’s essential to start saving something every month. The habit of saving, no matter how small, is crucial. If you spend every dollar you earn, you have no options. But if you save a portion, even 20%, you’ll begin to build financial flexibility and choices over time.

5. Budget for Fun

Once you’ve applied the first four principles—simplifying, being honest, prioritizing needs, and saving—you can move on to the final principle: budgeting for fun. Financial freedom doesn’t mean depriving yourself indefinitely. As your savings grow, you can intentionally allocate money for enjoyment.

Through these principles, you can move from financial overwhelm to freedom. You can eliminate the anxiety that robs you of joy and embrace a lifestyle aligned with God’s plan for you. As Luke 16:13 reminds us, "You cannot serve both God and money." By choosing God’s principles over financial chaos, you can find freedom.

By keeping it simple, being honest, prioritizing needs, saving consistently, and allowing room for fun, you can reduce anxiety and experience the freedom that comes from managing money well.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

Can you provide me with more information about the Christian Credit Union you partner with?
What book do you recommend for passing down inheritances to your heirs?
Your show has been a great gift to my wife and me during a tough time. We faced a costly 3-year lawsuit, but your program helped us through it. While our savings took a hit, we have a thriving family business and remain active in our community and church. I used to feel ashamed of our struggles, but I've learned this challenge was part of our journey. Your show reminds us that our future is in God's hands. Thank you for being such a blessing and encouragement.
Our oldest son and his wife had purchased a piece of property to build their house. I found a better piece of property and wanted to help them by lending them the money to buy the new property. The interest rate they would have to pay at the credit union was twice what I got in a high-interest savings account. So, I loaned them the money and told them I only wanted the interest rate. I'm a little conflicted on whether I should continue charging that interest, which they are paying monthly, or if I should just forgive that interest.

Resources Mentioned:

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