Each homesteader has his own financial motivations and circumstances. The Bible provides financial guidelines for the Christian homesteader. Here is a list of biblical financial principles for your consideration.

1) The Christian homesteader pays his bills. He spends less than he makes.
Proverbs 3:27 & 28, 15:16, 21:20

2) The Christian homesteader expects and prepares for financial difficulties.
Proverbs 6:6-8, 10:5, 12:11, 21:20, 30:24 & 25

3) The Christian homesteader teaches his children about finances.
Proverbs 3:1 & 2, 8:17-21

4) The Christian homesteader strives to support the church financially.
Proverbs 3:9 & 10, 3:27, 11:24 & 25

The most prevalent problem that I have seen that undermines the success of the homestead is overspending. Typically, the first-time homesteader tries to do too much with too little capital. He buys more land and build a bigger home than he can afford. A dead giveaway to financial mismanagement is the homesteader with nothing to haul who drives a brand new pick-up truck! The budget is pushed beyond reasonable limits. When something breaks (and something always breaks), the homesteader must go into debt to solve the problem. It doesn't ake long to be in real financial trouble. Rather than cut back on expenses and put away money for emergencies, the inexperienced homesteader often chooses to work more hours at a job "in town". Perhaps the wife also leaves to find outside work. All of the reasons for homesteading -- more time with the family, financial independence, a simplier lifestyle, peace of mind -- are overwhelmed by financial pressures. There are few things more demoralizing than uncontrolled debt. Unpaid obligations will damage your Christian witness.

The answer is to start small, keep it simple and always have an emergency fund. You can always add to your homestead as resourses-on-hand allow...no debt-no pressure caused by debt. Undergirding financial success on the hoemstead is the belief that God knows what you need and provides your needs in a timely way, not always when you want it, but always when He knows it is best.

Children who see parents relying on God for daily needs will learn that God is real in their parents' lives. Your kids learn by watching you handle your expenses. Talk to your children, show them how you are making your decisions based on God's word. Be aware of the limitations of understanding of your younger children. Don't scare them. In a positive way, explai that God is in charge. Then invite your children to watch and see how God will meet your needs.

When God provides in special ways, it's time for a family celebration. Giving a tithe or an offering is a great way to honor God and to remind children that He is the Provider of all good things. It's good for all of God's children, even older ones, to celebrate His wonderful gifts! Include the kids in the delivery of your offerings to the church. Even the smallest ones can put an envelope into the plate as it passes by.

When the world looks at the Christian homesteader, you can be sure that it will observe your financial activities. Without saying a word, you can draw people to Christ by following God's design for your money.

Proverbs 10:22 "The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it."

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