Happy Money?

In today's sermon, I talked about the limitations of money and the dangers of money. One limitation is that having more of it doesn't necessarily make us any happier. Research shows that after making $75k/yr any additional income doesn't add a bit of happiness to our lives. 

One danger of money is that we fail to recognize this limitation and make it our number one pursuit. We think that along with homes/cars/new clothing, that money will buy us happiness. And so we put the accumulation of money before even greater gifts: our spouse, our children, own health, even God.

We need to be wary of the dangers and limitations of money. When our lives are in order, the pursuit and accumulation of resources will trail behind other commitments to family and community and God. 

But money is a necessary part of our daily living. Does the way we handle our money contribute to a life that is full and God-honoring?

The same book I referred to for those statistics about the diminishing returns of having more money (Happy Money by Dunn & Norton), noted that research shows that how we use our money does affect our enjoyment of it. In particular, it notes five different practises that boost our wellbeing as it relates to spending money:

1. Buy experiences instead of more 'things'.
2. Indulge in occasional treats.
3. Use money to free up your calendar for more important activities.
4. Defer gratification (pay now, buy later).
5. Invest in others.

These principles wisely look at money as a tool, rather than an end.

These principles also reveal that money is best used to facilitate an active enjoyment of life, help others, and free us to do what really matters. It is interesting to consider that these goals are very much in sync with God's will for us. Those who pursue God's kingdom can use their money wisely and strategically for many good things.