True Value

"Why do you spend money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food."

(Isaiah 55:2)

As you encourage your children to spend their money wisely, use familiar examples to teach value. If a child asks to buy a video game, help the child calculate how many cheeseburger meals could be purchased with the game's price. Using this familiar and favorite item makes the cost of the game understandable and relevant and helps the child consider making wise purchasing decisions.

Older children are better able to understand the difference between cost and value. If your children receive an allowance, how long would they need to save their money to buy the item? These questions will also guide them toward wise purchases:
"How often will I use this?"
"Will I enjoy this?"
"Do I really want and need this?"
"Do I want it just because my friends have it?"
"Is there something I want more?"

Questions for Discussion

• Why can't we spend our money on whatever we want when we want it?
• What are some of the hard spending choices parents need to make?
• How can we make wise decisions when spending money?

Linda Holland is from Helena, Alabama.

Posted in 2002.