Emergency Preparedness / 2022 / June
June 2022 Message
Dear Stake,
Gas prices are going up and up, and the costs of most things are also rising. When money is stretched thin it can be difficult to handle an unexpected emergency. One of the best ways to prepare for any emergency is to be wise with personal finances, so that when an unforeseen event happens, we have access to reserves that can help us weather the storm.
Joseph B. Wirthlin gave a great talk in General Conference, April 2004, called Earthly Debts, Heavenly Debts. His advice holds true. Here are his (condensed) guidelines for financial security, along with some scriptures that we have added for further study and discussion with family:
First, pay your tithing. Do you want the windows of heaven opened to you? Do you wish to receive blessings so great there is not room enough to receive them? Always pay your tithing and leave the outcome in the hands of the Lord. See Malachi 3:10-11 and Jacob 2:17-19.
Second, spend less than you earn. Avoid debt. See Mosiah 4:27 and Galatians 5:1.
Third, learn to save. Remember the lesson of Joseph of Egypt. During times of prosperity, save up for a day of want. See Genesis 41.
Fourth, honor your financial obligations. We are a people of integrity. We believe in honoring our debts and being honest in our dealings with our fellow men. See Philippians 4:8.
Fifth, teach your children to follow your example. Teach them that they cannot have something merely because they want it. Teach them the principles of hard work, frugality, and saving. See Luke 12:15 and 2 Nephi 5:17
The church's provident living website has many resources for learning about financial self-reliance. We encourage you to take a look at your spending habits and see where you can make adjustments, so that you can be better financially prepared for the future.
Sincerely,
Chris and Holly Earls
Stake Emergency Preparedness Coordinators