As a young adult coming into the military, I didn't think about saving for a 'rainy' day or investing - I just wanted to have fun. I wasn't considering what could happen tomorrow, I only thought about 'today.' After so many 'todays' of having fun, all I was left with was memories and stuff I no longer use. I didn't have anything to help me tomorrow.

Even though my cousin (the stockbroker) told me to build an emergency fund before even considering investing, I decided to pay off my credit card early and start investing anyway. Over the years, I was able to build a small nest egg for my family's future, but because I didn't start an emergency fund, I cycled in and out of credit card debt. (I used my credit card as the emergency fund.)

I have always been aggressive toward my debts (paying more than owed), but what good did it help me if I couldn't weather any financial 'storms.' I hate debt, but I hated the condition I placed my family in even more. I felt ashamed and that I let my family down. But even in these circumstances, I can't hide, run away, or blame the devil - I have to take responsibility for my decisions. Just as I've made many bad (and questionable) decisions to get me where I am, I can make good (and godly) decisions toward financial stability.

Proverbs 13:11 (KJV) - Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.

Proverbs 13:11 is one of my favorite scriptures. It reminds me that patient and consistent saving will grow over time. Whether I can save $50 or $500 per month, the most important thing is to save. I used to be discouraged to save $50 at a time, but if that's all I can afford, then that's better than nothing. The key is not to look at the amount I'm saving, but to know that every little bit can help in a financial 'storm.'

Today, God has given me peace about my circumstances and even showed me a way to build a solid financial foundation. With His help, I'll be able to provide for my family's financial needs...little by little.