by Kate
I think the idea behind spending your values is really good (if I do say so myself). It's straightforward and easy to understand - you should spend your money and time primarily on things/experiences/services that align with your values, and you should limit your spending on anything that doesn't. Sounds great, right? Of course, it is difficult to change our habits and it can be difficult to even identify what our values are. And honestly - what is the point of doing this anyway? Why does any of this matter?
There are plenty of psychological, emotional, financial, and environmental benefits to spending your values, from lowering stress and worry, to creating an emergency fund, feeling the warm glow of generosity, or eliminating unnecessary waste. But I think there is something deeper and more essential to spending your values.
As Christians, we are called to be generous, wise, and discerning, to be good stewards, to question societal systems, and to physically take care of others (including strangers and people we don't even like). All these are actions that require a measure of self-reflection and intentional decision-making. Spending your values is part of this call to deliberate living that is so central to Christianity.
But beyond this general call to intentionality, I think that God also cares how we spend our money. It feels weird to write this because I've never believed that God is micro-managing our lives. I don't think God cares whether we go swimming today or tomorrow or whether we plant basil or mint in the pot on the front porch. We are gifted with free will and creativity and the responsibility to build our own lives. But the decisions we make every day about money matter because they contribute to the overall flourishing of our lives, and that is something that I believe God cares very deeply about. Since money is an inescapable part of our reality, God cares that we are making intentional decisions about our money that encourage our wellness and encourage us to commit more fully to the kingdom of God by working toward selflessness, peace, and hope. There is a deeper meaning to our spending then just being responsible adults or saving for a new car.
How we spend our money matters, both to us and to God. And 'spending our values' is a helpful framework to put our faith to action when it comes to money!
The power of the small amount.