Generous Living: A Path to Financial Freedom

Rudy and Janet Salazar’s seminar this week, entitled Generous Living, is more than just an approach to managing money—it is a way of life that aligns our finances with biblical values and spiritual convictions. Rooted in Scriptures such as Deuteronomy 28:12-13, the husband-and-wife duo reminds us that God’s plan is for us to prosper, to have sufficient resources, and to be in a position to give generously. This promise of financial hope is not about wealth for wealth’s sake. Rather, it is about living free from debt and burdens, so that we can exercise true generosity.

The Salazars learned these lessons the hard way. Immediately after college, when love and life began in earnest, the couple found themselves making decent money yet struggling to balance a checkbook. After a series of bounced checks, mounting credit card debt, and the added pressure of a single-income household following the birth of their first child, their testimony illustrated the importance of financial planning. After losing their home to bankruptcy, the Salazars dedicated themselves to making a change.

To overcome financial challenges, the Salazars counseled attendees to “equip yourself for battle,” echoing 2 Chronicles 20:15. While victory belongs to the Lord, His people must still fight with wisdom and preparation. One vital strategy is understanding your cash flow—as highlighted in Proverbs 27:23-24—and treating it like a calorie counter for your financial health. Evaluate every expense: Is it a need or a want? Identify the 20% of costs eroding 80% of your budget, and beware of small leaks that can sink a great ship.

Finally, successful saving is achieved by automating good spending habits. One easy first step is setting up deposits into your savings account, ensuring that you pay yourself first. By combining diligent budgeting, informed spending, and automated savings, one can make a debt-free future more likely—unlocking the true potential of a generous life.

If you would like to learn more about financial planning, future sessions will be held in the International Room at the Lambuth Inn.

—Benjamin Lawson