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Articles by Ozeme J Bonnette

• Is Instant Gratification Really Worth It?: A Look At Esau
  Twin brothers Jacob and Esau had a very unhealthy relationship. The sibling rivalry between these twins was incredible. It appears, too, that, in every battle between the brothers, Esau always gets the raw end of the deal. His desire for instant gratification cost him greatly.
  Published 25Jan2012, viewed 15 times

• Don't Take Advantage Of The Financially Weak: A Look At Jacob
  Every family has experienced some level of sibling rivalry, but these Esau and Jacob are the poster children. In the womb, these boys could not get along. In life, the fighting continued. Genesis 25:31-34 show us how dangerous greed and envy can be.
  Published 24Jan2012, viewed 9 times

• Will Our Families Be Burdened By Our Death?
  Many of us choose not to think about the ends of our lives, even though death is inevitable. But Solomon reminds us in Ecclesiastes 3:2 that there is "a time to be born and a time to die." (NIV) Knowing this, we should be willing to be more proactive about this phase of our lives. As Isaiah shared with Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20:1, "This is what the LORD says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die."
  Published 01Jan2012, viewed 33 times

• What Financial Lessons Are We Leaving To Our Children?
  Knowing the value that has been placed on inheritances in the past, we should evaluate whether we are doing our part to carry on the ancient tradition. Are we not only respecting the value of our own inheritances, but also passing them on?
  Published 31Dec2011, viewed 39 times

• Others Are Impacted By Our Obedience
  In Genesis 24:53, Abraham's servant met with Rebekah's father, Bethuel, and brother, Laban, to arrange for her marriage to Abraham's son, Isaac. Bethuel and Laban agreed to allow Rebekah to become Isaac's bride. As a symbol of his gratitude, Abraham's servant showered Rebekah and her family with gifts. This gesture reminded me of how others around us can be impacted by the choices we make in life.
  Published 25Dec2011, viewed 60 times

• We Can Use Viral Marketing To Spread The News About God
  In an age where cell phones, the internet, and social media websites run rampant, we have become used to the fast-paced way of spreading the word about any and every thing. Similarly, we can use our lives to become viral marketers for our God. So, how would a viral marketing campaign for God work?
  Published 24Dec2011, viewed 114 times

• Three Tips For Better Financial Negotiations
  Genesis 23:15-16 is part of a land purchase negotiation between Abraham and Ephron. Abraham needed to bury his wife. Since he was not from the area, he had to purchase land in order to do so. Ephron was willing to give the land to Abraham, but Abraham wanted to pay what the land was worth. He asked Ephron to accept it. Abraham and Ephron's business transaction highlight three keys to better financial negotiations.
  Published 08Oct2011, viewed 68 times

• God Blesses Us When We Do His Will
  Genesis 24:22 is the introduction to Rebekah's story. Abraham sent his servant back to their hometown to find a wife for his son, Isaac. The servant prayed to God to direct him to the woman God had in mind for Isaac. God answered the prayer of Abraham's servant, helping him to find Rebekah drawing water at the well. While there are numerous life lessons that we can find in Rebekah's story, we will just look at a few.
  Published 07Oct2011, viewed 99 times

• We Cannot Waiver In Being Obedient With Our Money
  It is always interesting to me that, as Christians, we know the difference between right and wrong, yet we still find ourselves choosing to do what is wrong in some situations. Granted, this is a natural, human response to life. Many of us pray daily for help fighting against this weakness. In Genesis 17:23, Abraham reminds us of three keys when it comes to being obedient with our money.
  Published 04Oct2011, viewed 128 times

• Three Steps To Being A Great Leader With Our Finances
  As a leader, whether at home, at work, or in the community, we should be "practicing what we are preaching." We should be doing the same things we ask of others. Let's look at three steps to being a great leader with respect to our finances.
  Published 03Oct2011, viewed 70 times

• Pay What Is Due
  Abraham was living among the Hittites. When Sarah died, he needed to buy a burial site for her. Genesis 23:9b is Abraham's request of the Hittites. He wanted the Hittites to assist him in getting Ephron to agree to his purchasing part of his land for the burial site. Ephron was willing to give Abraham the land for free. However, Abraham wanted to pay full price for the land. It is important to be fair in all of our dealings.
  Published 02Oct2011, viewed 83 times

• God Will Vindicate You
  Genesis 20:16 tells us Abimelech's response to a tough situation that he found himself in. Out of fear, Abraham asked Sarah to lie. Being obedient, Sarah did so. When Abimelech approached Abraham about it, Abraham told him the truth. Abimelech wanted to right the wrong that had occurred. This verse shows us how God will also look out for us when someone wrongs us financially.
  Published 01Oct2011, viewed 114 times

• What Impression Will You Leave?
  Genesis 17:12-13 clearly illustrates how God feels about us, His people. The great news is that He wants us all, and He wants us forever. When it comes to our finances, He is also asking us to take on some responsibility within the family unit.
  Published 30Sep2011, viewed 66 times

• It's God's Battle, Not Ours
  We face challenges on a daily basis. Some of those challenges are easy enough to work through, while others have us begging God for relief. In the midst of those struggles, we sometimes forget that God is with us. When someone wrongs us, we are so quick to want to retaliate. But God has told us that revenge is His. We are instructed to love our enemies and to pray for them. How difficult can that be when we are hit daily with negativity?
  Published 29Sep2011, viewed 100 times

• We Owe It To Our Children
  Life can be interesting. When things happen in our life, we might see them one way, but God sees them from a totally different perspective. One example of this can be our children. For many of us, our children were "accidents," or unplanned. Yet, they were part of God's plan from the beginning. Each of us has been designed by God with a purpose. We need to look carefully at how we handle the responsibility at hand.
  Published 30Jun2011, viewed 89 times

• Who Is In The Driver's Seat?
  Genesis 15:3 points out a characteristic that I struggle with. This illustrates our struggle with God's timing. We want or expect things to happen the way we would like. God has reasons for not allowing certain things in our lives, even if we really want them. A "no" from God may have different meanings, though. "No" could mean "not ever" or just "not now." Let's look at a few Bible stories about people who took situations into their own hands.
  Published 26Jun2011, viewed 103 times

• Do We Feel Entitled?
  One question that always seems to stand out in negotiations is, "What can you give me?" It's interesting how human nature causes us to feel that we are entitled to certain things, no matter how big or small they are. Are we spreading this potentially bad habit to our children? How can we correct it?
  Published 23Jun2011, viewed 92 times

• Do I Have To Give A Tithe Or Offering?
  As Christians and as members of multiple communities, we are instructed to give in several respects. Since God has enabled us to do everything that we are capable of, we should willingly give back to His body a portion of what He provides to us. The Bible helps us understand how to give.
  Published 27Mar2011, viewed 152 times

• Practical Tips On Saving Money
  We can come up with dozens of reasons to save money. There are three major reasons that we should be saving. We need to save for emergencies, for major purchases and for retirement. Saving does not have to equate with total sacrifice. Some of us think that saving for later means that we cannot enjoy things now. We do not have to give up having fun in order to protect our future. It just means that we make some changes. Here are some tips.
  Published 25Mar2011, viewed 132 times

• How To Work On Bad Credit
  Sometimes, information reported by the three credit bureaus is incorrect. But there will be times that the bad records on our credit reports will be completely accurate. Since negative information stays on our reports for seven to 10 years, the ideal way to handle these accounts is to clean them up. Here are some tips.
  Published 23Mar2011, viewed 143 times

• Three Tips To Help You Save Money When Buying Big Ticket Items
  Buying big-ticket items can be stressful. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is actually the best fit for us. Most advertising doesn't help, either, because everyone claims to be better than the competitor. So how do we pick the one that we want to buy? Here are three tips to help make that decision easier.
  Published 11Feb2011, viewed 249 times

• How To Clean A Bad Credit Report
  There may be times in our lives when our finances aren't exactly in the best shape. Regardless of the circumstances that led us to that point, it is in our long-term best interest to do what we can to clean up our credit - and our credit report.
  Published 10Feb2011, viewed 175 times

• Should I Collect Social Security Benefits Now Or Later?
  The rumors that Social Security is going to run out of money are unsettling. None of us want to believe that there will not be enough money left to take care of us in our retirement. When our Social Security benefit reports come in the mail, there are three estimated monthly payments - early, normal, and delayed retirement. The longer we wait, the greater the monthly payment. Here are some things to consider before making a decision.
  Published 10Feb2011, viewed 161 times

• Modified Endowment Contracts In Life Insurance Can Be Helpful
  Many life insurance agents warn against modified endowment contracts. However, it isn't always a problem. Before buying a life insurance policy, we should ask, "Why are we buying this life insurance policy?" If the intent is to transfer funds to beneficiaries income tax free, then a modified endowment contract is not a bad thing.
  Published 17Feb2011, viewed 380 times

• Three Ways Your Home Can Help You In Retirement
  After watching retirement account balances, many retirees are uncertain that gains will ever be enough to get their accounts back to where they once were. As a result, retirement dreams are looking pretty dim. However, some retirees do have one potential untapped source - their home. While it is true that home values are also down, this asset can still be a valuable part of the retirement plan. Let's explore this further.
  Published 06Feb2011, viewed 142 times

• Three Signs Of Financial Trouble Between Couples
  While the recession provides us with an obvious sign that the country is experiencing financial trouble, there are other ways of finding money issues within our own households. Let's look at three of the main challenges many couples face when it comes to handling money together.
  Published 05Feb2011, viewed 150 times

• Know the Source of Your Financial Success
  We can learn a lot from Abram. He knew the source of his strength and provision. He knew that he was nothing, and could do nothing, without God. Abram also served as a living testimony to unbelievers. Abram wanted others to see God work in his life so that maybe they, too, would turn to God. Let's look at three men that God used to show believers and unbelievers that He is the ultimate source.
  Published 02Nov2010, viewed 151 times

• How to Save Up Enough to Retire
  With so much uncertainty about where the future is headed, how do we know if we've saved up enough money to last us for the rest of our lives? Few of us know what that magic nest egg number should be. Even fewer have even tried to figure out what the number should be. Hiding our heads in the sand is the worst approach to take. Let's look at some of the biggest issues we should consider to determine if we are saving enough.
  Published 31Oct2010, viewed 146 times

• How to Take Back What the Devil Stole from Us
  Genesis 14:16 reminds us to be alert and prepared to fight the enemy. We have to be aggressive, rather than passive, on a daily basis. We have to take back what the devil stole from us. In order to take things back, or to avoid them being taken in the first place, we have to be able to identify the weaknesses in ourselves that even allow the devil a way in.
  Published 27Oct2010, viewed 813 times

• Give God His Tithe - It's the Least We Can Do
  Abram knew God and His promises. He had experienced God's presence and His deliverance. Abram knew that, without God, he had nothing. Giving God a tenth is a small act of appreciation in comparison to what God gives us every day in return.
  Published 25Oct2010, viewed 552 times

• How to Approach Your Financial Struggles God's Way
  Economic times like these can be hard on everyone. Just as the people of Sodom and Gomorrah got swept up by the enemy in Genesis 14:11-12, we have also been caught in a storm. Recessions and financial struggles have brought thousands and thousands of families down. It is hard not to wonder what might happen to us next. 2 Chronicles 20 is a wonderful illustration of how we should face our current and future financial challenges.
  Published 23Oct2010, viewed 191 times

• Tips to Avoid Conflicts at Work and at Home
  There are times where we may find it difficult to avoid a disagreement in the workplace, or even a conflict at home. Here are some things to think about as you work toward a peaceful resolution.
  Published 23Oct2010, viewed 553 times

• God Pours Blessings to Overflow
  At a time when so many families feel financially destitute and hopeless, it can be hard to imagine that silver lining. But the mind is a battlefield. The enemy is really busy and will do what he can to redirect our focus away from God. Let's remember the promises of long ago. Deuteronomy 28:1-14 provides a long list of benefits that result from our obedience to God, but let's look specifically at verse 11.
  Published 21Oct2010, viewed 606 times

• Obedience is the Key to Success
  We can be blessed by following the examples of obedience given to us in the Bible. But obedience comes in many fashions, and we cannot pick and choose what we will obey. What do we do?
  Published 20Oct2010, viewed 724 times

• Are My "Blessings" Genuine or a Wolf in Sheep's Clothing?
  Genesis 12 is very appropriate in today's economic times. God told Abram to leave his country of Haran and set out for the land that God was going to give him. Abram moved, but allowed his own worries to lead him to make poor decisions. Although Abram was treated well, he was still disobedient. Let's look at this scenario a little deeper to see how it can help us deal with this economy.
  Published 17Oct2010, viewed 303 times

• Are We Carrying Unnecessary Baggage?
  Our lives are constantly in transition. However, some things are easier to let go than others. Let's consider a couple of key questions about how we are approaching our own journeys with God. What unnecessary baggage am I carrying? Am I really trusting God on my journey?
  Published 16Oct2010, viewed 583 times

• Three Reasons Not To Be Angry About Our Financial Troubles
  There are so many challenges that we encounter during each week. As we wallow in self pity in the middle of these obstacles, we often find ourselves asking God why this is happening to us. Genesis 4:3-5 gives us some insight into the answer to this question. We will look at 3 questions that we should ask ourselves in the midst of our troubles.
  Published 15Oct2010, viewed 331 times

• How To Manage Our Two Main Responsibilities Toward Our Possessions
  While people were created to "rule" over the earth, our purpose on Earth goes beyond trying to control or dominate. The picture is made clearer in Genesis 2:15. Adam lived in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it." (NIV) Let's look at this a little deeper.
  Published 14Oct2010, viewed 363 times

• Five Things We Can Learn From Today's Economic Times
  When we look at the economy today, we can't help but feel a sense of sadness for the struggles that many Americans, including ourselves, are dealing with. In a time like this, we begin to wonder if money is a bad thing. We ask ourselves, where did we go wrong? When God takes things away from us, we must take a moment to reflect on the bigger picture that God may have in mind. What can we learn from this current economic situation?
  Published 13Oct2010, viewed 635 times

• Compound Interest Impacts Major Purchases
  Let's look at how compound interest can affect our major purchases. We all like new things - new gadgets, new items for the house, and new cars. Sometimes we like them so much that we are willing to do whatever it takes to get them. This can include paying outrageous interest rates when we don't have the cash.
  Published 06Oct2010, viewed 151 times

• Simple Changes to Food Habits Can Save Big Money
  I completely understand what it feels like to work all day and not want to go home and cook. But fast food is not the answer. Not only is it a nutritional no-no, but it also leads us into a financial hole.
  Published 03Oct2010, viewed 116 times

• Many Factors Affect Our Credit Score
  Our credit score is basically the bureau's idea of our ability to repay our debt obligations. It is highly affected by several factors. We will look at some of them here.
  Published 03Oct2010, viewed 124 times

• Emergency Funds Help with Life's Surprises
  We can get so caught up with paying bills and trying to enjoy life that we forget to plan ahead for the little things. Life is full of surprises, and we need to be ready for them. When it comes to our finances, we should always have an emergency fund available.
  Published 01Oct2010, viewed 114 times

• Beware of Credit Counseling Companies
  Many of us may feel that we are unable to get the excessive debt under control on our own. We may decide to turn to a credit counseling agency or a debt consolidation company to help us tackle this stressful situation. However, not all credit counseling and debt consolidation companies have our best interests at heart.
  Published 30Sep2010, viewed 167 times

• Other Ways to Enhance Retirement Income
  The market volatility has had a severe impact on many retirees. With account values dropping so rapidly, it makes it difficult to rebuild the value of the nest egg. Retirees also find it challenging to maintain a consistent monthly draw from their retirement nest eggs for fear of depleting the account too soon. We may need to look for ways to reduce monthly expenses. Here are some tips to help make the process smoother.
  Published 20Aug2010, viewed 325 times

• Another Way to Get Long Term Care Coverage
  The biggest reason many people do not purchase long term care insurance is because they are worried about paying for it and never using it. However, just like every other insurance product, it is better to have it than to realize too late that we actually would have benefited from it. There are products available, though, that allow you access to long term care coverage if the need arises. Here are a few variations to consider.
  Published 18Aug2010, viewed 152 times

• How Might Healthcare Reform Impact Me?
  Some aspects of the healthcare reform have already taken effect, while others are being phased in over several years. Nevertheless, most Americans will be impacted by the changes. Today, we will review several of the changes that are on the horizon. Each household should consider how these changes may impact them so that they can plan ahead against any potential negative result.
  Published 30Jul2010, viewed 166 times

• What Criteria Should I Consider When Choosing Mutual Funds?
  With so much market volatility, it can be difficult to determine the best investments to use in a 401(k) account or IRA. With such a limited selection, what should we do when they are all going down? Today, we will look at five of the most common criteria advisors use to evaluate mutual funds. Using these criteria individually can be helpful in maintaining a quality investment portfolio.
  Published 28Jul2010, viewed 297 times

• Can I Withdraw from My IRA without Penalty?
  Times are tough for many of us. There may be times where we find that we need additional cash and there are few options that remain. While we understand that our 401(k)s and IRAs are designed for creating retirement income, these accounts may be the only source of a sizable amount of cash. Let's review the IRS-approved ways to withdraw from your IRA penalty-free.
  Published 24Jul2010, viewed 534 times

• What Questions Should I Consider Before Buying an Annuity?
  Today, we will look at the 12 factors that must be considered in determining the suitability of an annuity. We will also look at some of the reasons these factors are important to understand.
  Published 23Jul2010, viewed 272 times

• Three Reasons to Roll Your 401(k) Money to an IRA
  In preparing to retire, many employees are unclear about whether they should leave their 401(k) account balance in the employer plan or roll it into an IRA outside of the plan. Here are three reasons to consider moving the funds into an IRA.
  Published 16Jul2010, viewed 173 times

• Will You be Impacted by Medicare Changes?
  One health care issue that has drawn concern, especially among retirees and those preparing to retire, is the proposed change to Medicare coverage. We will look at why changes are inevitable, what changes are being considered, and what impacted retirees should do now.
  Published 14Jul2010, viewed 145 times

• Get Your Finances under Control
  Since debt does not happen overnight, we cannot expect to get out of debt overnight. However, we need to learn some simple skills that can help us get our finances under control before they end up controlling us.
  Published 07Jul2010, viewed 164 times

• Help Children Practice Money Management Skills
  It is important that we play an active role in helping our children obtain the skills that they will need to be financially sound adults. This is not a skill that can be learned overnight, so it is imperative that we start to apply these principles to their lives early. Consistent practice will lead to developing good habits.
  Published 05Jul2010, viewed 327 times

• Show Children the Way
  God has provided us with a great responsibility as parents. We have been chosen by Him to teach our children how to live as respected Christians. Paul reminded us that we are the driving force in our children's lives. It is up to us; society and our schools cannot do it for us.
  Published 03Jul2010, viewed 261 times

• Life Expectancy Keeps Rising - Are You Prepared?
  The bottom line is that we are growing old gracefully. We are spending just as much time in retirement as we did in our working years. The question to ask ourselves is, Have we taken the necessary steps to ensure that those retirement years will be comfortable and enjoyable? Are we financially ready for the long road ahead?
  Published 01Jul2010, viewed 189 times

• Don't Put All of Your Eggs in One Basket
  The market has recently seen some of its worst days in years. Investors are worried about the economy, so they are pulling their money out of stocks and moving to conservative money markets. The influx of capital into the money market has been astronomical. So, what do we make of all this? Should we follow suit and move our funds too? Should we sit back and wait?
  Published 29Jun2010, viewed 315 times

• Are You Prepared for an Unexpected Retirement?
  Sun Life Financial interviewed a group of people who retired involuntarily. This survey calls us to question our current preparations for retirement. Are we maximizing our retirement planning right now, or are we putting it off until later? Procrastination could put you and your family at risk if something happened to your current occupation.
  Published 27Jun2010, viewed 165 times

• Three Tips for a Better Retirement Account
  Many of us are unsure whether we want to open our retirement account statements. Sure, the worst appears to be over, but it's still hard to tell if we're going to see a gain or a loss on any given statement. Hiding our heads in the sand, though, is really not the best way to handle the uncertainty. Today, we will look at three simple tips we can use to help us obtain a better retirement account.
  Published 12Jun2010, viewed 260 times

• What are the Benefits of Owning an Indexed Universal Life Policy?
  There are many different types of permanent life insurance policies. Each type carries its own benefits. Indexed universal life policies are the newest type of permanent life. Many people are still unfamiliar with some of the advantages that these policies have to offer. Today, we will look at four benefits of owning an indexed universal life insurance policy.
  Published 09Jun2010, viewed 197 times

• How to Choose a Permanent Life Insurance Policy
  We purchase life insurance based on specific needs. Some needs can be covered by term, but other needs can last a lifetime and require that we purchase a permanent policy. With so many different types of policies to choose from, the decision can be overwhelming. Reviewing the various types of permanent policies will help us to be in a better position to choose a policy that best meets the needs of our families.
  Published 05Jun2010, viewed 1809 times

• What Type of Life Insurance Should I Get?
  We know that life insurance is an important purchase for adults. It can be beneficial for children, as well. However, deciding what kind of life insurance to buy can be challenging. There are so many different types of policies available. We need to understand the advantages of each type so that we can make the best choice for our families.
  Published 03Jun2010, viewed 222 times

• Do My Children Need Life Insurance? - 5 Reasons to Consider Getting It
  While we understand the importance of adults having life insurance at each stage of their lives, there is much debate about whether children should have life insurance. There are some definite advantages to getting life insurance coverage for children, but each family must assess their own situations individually to see if it makes sense for their households. We will look at five reasons to consider life insurance coverage for our children.
  Published 29May2010, viewed 515 times

• Do I Really Need Life Insurance?
  When the stock market began going through its challenging times, many of us put our heads in the sand. We now understand the importance of getting back into the market. There is another financial area that is often neglected but just as important - life insurance. Today, we will consider the benefits that life insurance can offer us at different stages of our lives.
  Published 28May2010, viewed 347 times

• How Do I Get My Retirement Account Back on Track?
  The stock market drop of 2008 sent many investors to the sidelines with the much smaller remaining balances of their retirement accounts. While many investors slowly started to inch their way back into the market in 2009, some are still extremely hesitant to do so. Here are a few tips to help get those investment accounts back on track moving forward.
  Published 23May2010, viewed 467 times

• The Credit CARD Act Impacts Most Consumers
  Many of us have noticed some changes with our credit cards lately. In an effort to protect consumers, the credit card industry has been forced to make some changes. Fortunately, some of the changes coming with the CARD Act will help consumers avoid problems that can lead to serious and long term financial trouble. On the other hand, creditors are finding new and creative ways to remain profitable.
  Published 20May2010, viewed 286 times

• Two Big Money Problems to Avoid
  While some media have pushed annuities as bad investments, we know that they do serve a purpose. However, there are many other financial decisions that have far worse repercussions. We will look at two money problems that have caused serious damage to many households over the years: credit card cash advances and advance tax refunds.
  Published 15May2010, viewed 383 times

• Are There Benefits to Owning a Fixed Annuity?
  While many "senior" seminars have touted annuities as a solution to almost every problem, they really are not a "one size fits all" kind of product. The challenge for potential annuity owners is to understand the product clearly enough to determine whether it makes sense for them personally.
  Published 12May2010, viewed 341 times

• Are Mutual Funds Overcharging Us With 12b-1 Fees?
  Regulators are taking a closer look at the fees that investors pay. The fee that is getting a lot of attention now is known as a 12b-1 fee. Since so many consumers are unaware of the fees they pay for their mutual funds, the SEC is thinking about requiring better disclosure of the fee.
  Published 06May2010, viewed 404 times

• Poor Recordkeeping Leads to Trouble
  There are many challenges that we face when dealing with creating and staying on a budget. One of the most common mistakes that I hear about most often from my clients who are learning how to stay on a budget is not keeping good records.
  Published 01May2010, viewed 345 times

• Family Requires a Joint Effort
  Families are designed to work together. This is illustrated wonderfully in 1 Corinthians 12:12-26. As a family body, each person is a special, unique, and equally valuable part. The body as a whole cannot function without the capabilities of each person. More specifically, husbands and wives need to be sure that they are working together for the family's best interest.
  Published 28Apr2010, viewed 243 times

• Understanding Long Term Care
  The importance of having long term care insurance cannot be emphasized enough. It has been estimated that about half of people living today will need long term care at some point in their lives. About 75% of people over the age of 65 will need long term care.
  Published 23Apr2010, viewed 249 times

• We Need to Look Out for Family
  The family of today is nothing like it used to be. The pressures of society and the economy have forced the family unit to break down. As a result, all generations are affected.
  Published 18Apr2010, viewed 202 times

• How Will We Get to Where We Want to Be?
  After considering where we are and where we want to be, we need to determine how we will get there. You're probably expecting me to share the secret to wealth and success. I actually have it.
  Published 16Apr2010, viewed 312 times

• Where Do We Want To Be?
  We know the importance of having a financial map. Once we have a clear picture about where we are now, we want to figure out where we want to be. This is the fun part. We can be totally free and creative here. This is no-holds barred. We should let our dreams loose and really think about the things that we want out of life.
  Published 10Apr2010, viewed 286 times

• Where Are We Now?
  Although many of us are in denial about certain parts of our financial lives, there is always room for improvement. Some characteristics of our spending habits are very obvious, while others are hidden. The only way to make this work properly is to bring everything out into the open. We should get a true idea of where we stand financially so that we know how to move forward to reach our goals.
  Published 07Apr2010, viewed 224 times

• There is Hope in the Midst of the Chaos
  The last couple of years have been very challenging. This article is meant to provide some words of encouragement and useful reminders. I have been helping some families deal with these issues since the country's financial crisis first started, and I realize how many other families are still hurting right now.
  Published 04Apr2010, viewed 233 times

• Credit Card Rules Have Changed
  Today, we will look at some of the government's efforts to reform some of the corrupt practices that the credit card industry has used against borrowers. It is important to understand the changes happening in the credit card industry. Even borrowers with great credit have found themselves negatively impacted.
  Published 01Apr2010, viewed 991 times

• Understanding the Credit Score
  Solid credit scores are much more important when trying to obtain a loan for any reason. A better credit score will not only improve the chances of obtaining a loan, but also allow for better interest rates on the funds borrowed. Today, we will look briefly at some of the most important aspects that are considered when determining our credit score.
  Published 30Mar2010, viewed 355 times

• Setting Up a Retirement Income Stream Is Not a Simple Task
  As retirement nears, there is more to think about than just which custodian we will use to roll over our retirement account once we leave our employer. Our retirement nest egg must not only supplement Social Security and any other streams of income we may have available, but it must also last the duration of our retirement years.
  Published 27Mar2010, viewed 421 times

• What Kind of Advisor Are You Working With?
  With all of the financial troubles and retirement account mistakes that have plagued investors in this country lately, the investment industry has been debating the regulations and standards expected of financial professionals. One major area of disagreement comes with respect to whether the standards expected of financial professionals should be identical. As it stands now, there are different expectations for brokers and advisors.
  Published 24Mar2010, viewed 348 times

• Three Big Mistakes Employees Make with their Retirement Accounts
  In an age where pensions are less common and Social Security is on the verge of disappearing, employees have been forced to become more responsible for their comfort in retirement. However, employees have not been apt to embrace this new responsibility. Today, we will look at three of the most common mistakes employees are making with their retirement accounts.
  Published 26Mar2010, viewed 299 times

• Many Workers Don't Understand the Importance of Retirement Accounts
  Over the years, many financial institutions have conducted studies to get a better picture of the true state of the retiree in the years ahead. The results that I have seen are troubling. If workers do not change their courses of action soon, many households are headed for financial problems in their most critical years - during retirement.
  Published 18Mar2010, viewed 372 times

• Watch Out When Using Credit Cards
  Credit can be a wonderful concept, but it is easy to abuse. It reminds me of a mousetrap. The credit card companies know all about our vulnerabilities, and they put that cheese in front of us. We think that we'll be able to grab the cheese without getting caught, but they trap us every time. Today, I want to touch upon some of the important things we should know about keeping good credit.
  Published 15Mar2010, viewed 378 times

• Understanding the Keys to Prosperity
  Following God does not have to mean a life of poverty. He is not opposed to our desire to enjoy life and carefully plan for retirement. However, there are important steps that a Christian should take to ensure both prosperity and success.
  Published 07Mar2010, viewed 428 times

• Financial Planning Changes over the Years - Planning in Retirement Years
  Here are some financial planning tips to help you make sure that you are ready in retirement - 60s and beyond.
  Published 04Mar2010, viewed 833 times

• Financial Planning Changes over the Years - Planning in Those Middle Years
  Here are some financial planning tips to help you make sure that you are on the right track in your 40s and 50s.
  Published 27Feb2010, viewed 388 times

• Financial Planning Changes over the Years - the Early Years
  Many people don't start thinking about retirement until they get close to it, but financial planning should actually begin from the first day on the job. Here are some tips to help you make sure that you are on the right track.
  Published 24Feb2010, viewed 327 times

• Understanding ETFs
  Exchange-traded funds (or ETFs) are still relatively new investment products. They were first introduced in 1993, but have been gaining in popularity ever since. This article provides more information on the investment to help investors better understand the product.
  Published 21Feb2010, viewed 399 times

• When Should I Take Social Security Benefits?
  In planning for retirement, we want to plan on having funds come from the three-legged stool: pension (or other employer-sponsored retirement plan), Social Security, and our own savings. We normally start taking our pensions upon retirement. Our personal savings is available whenever we may need to draw upon it. So, the big question is when should I start drawing my Social Security benefits?
  Published 19Feb2010, viewed 541 times

• Know the Difference between Good and Bad Loans
  The media has been over-run with talk about mortgage and credit card defaults. Many homeowners have been scrambling to save their homes from foreclosure. Hearing all of this, we might begin to wonder whether there really is such a thing as a good loan. Using credit is not always a bad thing. We just need to understand when it is appropriate.
  Published 17Feb2010, viewed 265 times

• Take Action Before Foreclosure Starts
  Foreclosure rates have reached highs most of us have never seen before. Many people are panicked, especially those who are facing the possibility of being foreclosed on. I wanted to offer some suggestions to those who may need to look at their options. The sooner you act, the better the chances of saving your home.
  Published 12Feb2010, viewed 525 times

• Tips to Improve Your Credit Score
  When we were in school, report cards and our GPA were important. As adults, it's our credit score. Most people associate their credit score with obtaining a mortgage. However, it is applicable in many situations. As we begin considering our motivations for wealth, we should avoid being careless with our spending, especially on credit.
  Published 04Feb2010, viewed 395 times

• What is Your Motivation for Wealth?
  51% of Americans want to be wealthy. Some people in this group see money as a measure of success, or of having arrived. Others see money as a way to achieve that stress-free financial freedom we are all looking for. Lastly, money can also help meet the needs of family, friends, and those less fortunate. There are three questions we should ask ourselves if we fall into this group.
  Published 01Feb2010, viewed 630 times

• Set Financial Goals for the New Year
  Once Thanksgiving and Christmas are near, we realize that another year has come and gone. As we look back, we realize that there were many things that we wanted to accomplish in 2009, yet they somehow did not come to fruition. For many of us, life just gets in the way. But today is a new day, and there's nothing wrong with creating a fresh start now. Let's look at some questions that will trigger some ideas and help us get back on track.
  Published 29Jan2010, viewed 383 times

• Your Employer's Life Insurance Policy is Not Enough
  Although death is not a subject that most of us like to talk about, we all know that it is an inevitable part of life. None of us will live forever. With that in mind, it is absolutely crucial to consider the well-being of the loved ones we leave behind
  Published 26Jan2010, viewed 610 times

• There are No Small Parts in God's Kingdom
  In performing our work, we should remember that there are no small parts in God's Kingdom. As mentioned in Ephesians 2:10, we have all been chosen by God to do different tasks, and they are all equally important.
  Published 23Jan2010, viewed 547 times

• Credit Card Companies Prey on the Weak and Vulnerable
  Times are hard financially. Since the sub-prime market fell apart, there has been a domino effect that has trickled into the rest of the economy. One of the most troubling signs of abuse that I have seen lately is the way that credit card companies are preying on those who are currently financially challenged.
  Published 20Jan2010, viewed 332 times

• Hard Work is Overrated
  Although diligence is admirable, we need to make sure we have the proper balance in our lives. We have to avoid overworking.
  Published 17Jan2010, viewed 446 times

• Christians are Held to Different, Higher Standards
  Although we live in this world, the Bible tells us in Romans 12:2 that we should not conform to the ways of the world. As Christians, we are held to different standards, higher standards.
  Published 14Jan2010, viewed 348 times

• Avoid the Bumps on the Road to Retirement
  The way we handle our finances requires a changed attitude. There is no better time than the present to make sure that you are on the right track to a comfortable retirement. The sooner you are able to correct your current course of action, the better it will be for you financially.
  Published 03Jan2010, viewed 473 times

• True Financial Stewardship Requires a Changed Attitude
  While we may have lots of material possessions right now, they are only temporary. We definitely can't take them with us when we leave this world. We should focus on allowing God to be in control of everything, including our money, so that He can work through us to improve not only our lives, but also the lives of those around us.
  Published 01Jan2010, viewed 364 times

• Understanding the True Costs of Debt
  It is important to look at how responsible we are with managing the finances we use when giving. There are times when we give to others (or to ourselves) to an extent that it puts us in extreme debt. It's one of the biggest concerns for the majority of Americans. We believe in buying now and paying later, but it's not in our best interest.
  Published 27Dec2009, viewed 465 times

• What the Bible Says about Giving
  Giving is our foundation. Remember John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." (NIV) If God cared enough about us to give His only son for our benefit, we should care enough about each other to willingly give of our resources to help those in need. Giving is all about attitude.
  Published 24Dec2009, viewed 692 times

• Getting your Finances in Order - How to Take Care of God's Property
  We know that everything we own really belongs to God. He is the one in control, and if we seek His Kingdom first, He will provide everything we need. Let's look at how to take care of God's property.
  Published 20Dec2009, viewed 511 times

• Getting your Finances in Order: 3 Facts about Money from the Bible
  Today, we will look at three facts that will challenge you to further explore your perception of your finances. These concepts will help you move into a more peaceful frame of mind when it comes to thinking about money.
  Published 17Dec2009, viewed 462 times

• Should I Convert My Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA?
  Complacency with monitoring our accounts' diversification can lead to unnecessary risk. It is best not to be complacent about considering the current IRA conversion opportunity. It can be beneficial for many investors, and now may be a great time to consider whether it is right for you.
  Published 12Dec2009, viewed 270 times

• Uncovering the Truth about Diversification
  Sometimes, when we set goals for our retirement accounts, we concentrate only on the potential for positive returns. Then, we find ourselves ready to change our minds when the road gets a little rough. It is important to truly understand what diversification is in order to properly set up our investment accounts in a way that enables us to remain comfortable over the long term.
  Published 09Dec2009, viewed 189 times

• Setting Goals - Stick to the Plan and See It Through
  I realize that readers have come to expect an article that focuses on money and finances. This is still very relevant because there is a direct correlation between this topic and finances. Someone once told me that there is one place we can go and find a lot of potential for wealth. It's a place you would probably never guess.
  Published 06Dec2009, viewed 337 times

• Wills, Trusts, and Other Important Documents- Leaving a Lasting Legacy
  Whether sooner or later, death is inevitable for all of us. But for the sake of our families, we should be prepared. Rather than letting the state courts decide which family member should be entitled to our property, we can set up wills and trusts that divide our assets and document our last requests.
  Published 03Dec2009, viewed 282 times

• Long Term Care Insurance - Do I Really Need It?
  The Center for Retirement Research reported that 64% of pre-retirees will be at risk of not having enough money saved to maintain their lifestyles. If no major medical issues arise, it may not be so bad. But we are living longer, and with that comes an increased chance of needing long term care. Most couples are not financially prepared for paying that type of expense out of pocket. Here are 4 reasons to consider long term care insurance.
  Published 28Nov2009, viewed 413 times

• College Funding - Can We Still Afford to Help Our Children Pay for College?
  With such a volatile economy, most investment account values have been down. College savings accounts are also down. It also doesn't help to see college costs increasing at such high rates. Now, many parents are wondering whether they will still be able to help their children with college expenses. Here are some ideas that may help you determine the best way to help your children with their higher education expenses.
  Published 25Nov2009, viewed 472 times

• Home Budgets Can Be Thrown Off by Both the Expected and the Unexpected
  If there is one thing that can cause tremendous damage to our finances, it would have to be irregular expenses. These are expenses that do not happen every pay period or every month, but often come up at some point during the year. We will review a couple of the more popular irregular expenses.
  Published 20Nov2009, viewed 377 times

• Setting Smart Goals with Your Investment Accounts - What Do I Do if This Is a Recession?
  For the past two years, the stock market has mirrored a yo-yo. One day, it's up, while the next day, it's down. No one can agree on where the economy is headed. So, what is the best thing to do in an economic environment like this?
  Published 15Nov2009, viewed 341 times

• Rolling over 401k Accounts or Pensions - Should I Take a Lump Sum or Monthly Payments?
  When the time comes to retire, lots of questions come to mind when trying to decide how to collect on the fruits of our labor. Here are four reasons why I recommend taking the lump sum when rolling over 401k accounts or pensions.
  Published 12Nov2009, viewed 408 times

• Scriptures on Finances - God Holds Us Accountable for What He Has Given Us
  Financial stewards don't own anything. We just manage it. So, we need to make sure that we properly manage everything that God has entrusted to us.
  Published 08Nov2009, viewed 1004 times

• Living Debt Free - 7 Problems with Debt
  Debt is one of the biggest concerns for the majority of families today. Most of us are thousands and thousands of dollars in debt. We believe in buying now and paying later, but it's not in our best interest. Debt costs more than most of us realize. Living debt free is so much better. Here are seven problems associated with excessive debt.
  Published 04Nov2009, viewed 299 times

• Tips to Save Money to Buy Your Next Car
  An important money concept to consider is exercising care when buying new vehicles. Just because the car dealership makes you feel like they've given in to make their customer happy, that could not be further from the truth. Here are some tips to keep in mind during your next purchase negotiation.
  Published 31Oct2009, viewed 428 times

• Personal Finance Basics - 10 Ways to Get Financially Fit Anytime
  Resolutions are a popular way to bring in the new year. But anytime is a good time to get your finances in order. Here are 10 personal finance basics to consider if you are ready to get your financial house in order now.
  Published 29Oct2009, viewed 372 times

• Teaching Money Management - 3 Lessons Parents can Teach their Children
  As parents, we are responsible for helping our children grow up and develop skills toward self-sufficiency. The type of people our children become has a lot to do with the instruction we provide to them. Teaching money management skills is an important area that should not be overlooked as we prepare our children for life on their own.
  Published 25Oct2009, viewed 519 times

• How to Prepare a Budget - An Easy Way to Keep Tabs on Your Finances
  While we may know how much money we have coming in, studies show that most of us have no idea what is going out. Not knowing how much money we are spending each month may put us in a position where we need money that we don't have. We may end up using credit cards or getting a payday loan to cover the shortfall. We need to actually monitor our spending habits to find out the best way to maximize our financial resources.
  Published 22Oct2009, viewed 362 times

• A Payday Loan to Pay Off Credit Cards is a Bad Idea
  For the past two years, the economy has really taken us for a ride. The economic crisis is hurting families at all economic levels. Now it is more critical than ever to be careful with your finances. Eliminating debt requires both consistency and determination. It can be tempting to seek ways to speed up the process. Some people consider taking out a loan to pay off credit cards. Here is one money mistake that you should really avoid.
  Published 17Oct2009, viewed 701 times

• Get Out of Debt Quick - How to Work Toward being Debt Free
  Everyone wants to be debt free. The problem with debt elimination is figuring out where to start. The most important step is understanding your cash flow. Once you know what you have coming in and what needs to go out, you can create a debt repayment plan that can help you get out of debt quick. Learn how to creating a debt payoff plan.
  Published 14Oct2009, viewed 636 times

• Money Saving Techniques: 10 Ways to Save Money During the Holidays
  The holidays can turn happy seasons into times of stress and anguish, especially if you already have more debt than you'd like. So, here are 10 money saving techniques to help you keep your finances in order.
  Published 10Oct2009, viewed 419 times

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