A foolish man devours all he has.
Proverbs 21:20 NIV
If you want to be a good steward of what God has entrusted to you, do these four things.

First, reduce the debt you carry. Be guided by wisdom, not impulse. Spending less than you earn is the key to financial security. When you're in debt over your head it pre-commits you and dictates what you can do down the road. What you do today is the only influence you have over tomorrow.

Second, remember, cash is king! Don't worry about sophisticated investment strategies until you've got at least three to six months living expenses in the bank. That way you're prepared when emergencies arise - and they will. The Bible says, 'In the house of the wise are stores… but a foolish man devours all he has' (Proverbs 21:20 NIV).

Third, have a long-term financial goal and refer to it regularly. Lion tamers use a stool for control. Why? Because the lion will try to focus on all four legs, and end up confused. Focus on your long-term goal!

Finally, don't just save, sow: '… whoever sows generously will also reap generously' (2 Corinthians 9:6 NIV). True financial freedom comes when giving no longer threatens your sense of security, because you've learned that consecutive sowing into God's kingdom always generates consecutive reaping. The truth is , there's no better way to live!