“Besar pasak daripada tiang” is an old saying in Bahasa Indonesia. This thought hit me like a bolt of lightning when I started getting my monthly income and spending in order. I wanted to get my finances in order, so I put my spending into categories and gave each one a certain amount. Then, I calculated the difference between my expenses and my salary. My actions were driven by curiosity, not by a sudden awareness of money or a pressing need to find the trail of my hard-earned cash. But oh, the thing I found out next was nothing short of amazing. The twist is that my monthly expenses ended up being more than my monthly pay. Isn't that amazing? Even though this was strange, I still managed to save regularly every month and invest.

So, where did my money come from? I do have multiple sources of income, but the amounts are not fixed every month. Then I realized that my financial life reflects what Jesus said in Matthew 6:26, that as His children, we are taken care of by Him, surpassing what we worry about and even beyond what we can think of.

I planned to be frugal due to inflation and the worsening economy nowadays, trying to apply the principles of the world that teach us to be prudent and wise in managing finances. However, His words teach me that I am provided for by Him, not by my finances or savings. I planned to manage my expenses so they wouldn't be "besar pasak daripada tiang," but His words instruct me to sow without fear of scarcity.

How fortunate are those who experience God's wisdom and His living words! Although they may be regarded as foolish and careless by the wisdom of the world, they experience peace and prosperity that surpasses all human understanding.

I will still organize my monthly expenses and income because by doing so, I am reminded of the magnitude of my Father's provision in my life and in my family, surpassing what I can imagine and do.

Let's learn more about what the Bible says on financial management!