10 WAYS TO LIVE ON ONE INCOME

IT’S POSSIBLE!

I realize trying to live on one income these days is very difficult, but it is possible! Actually, it’s not only possible but feasible. The secret is in smart planning, a willingness to economize, and above all, seeking what God says in His Word so that we can trust God with our finances. This is essential in today’s culture. As I look around me, my heart goes out to young people today who are facing an economic situation where living on your own, buying a home, or starting a family seems out of reach. However, I believe there are ways to mitigate future financial hardship with a few mindset changes. And to give you hope, I strongly believe we will see a change for the better in the coming months and years.  

WHEN GOD IS IN CHARGE

Granted, as Boomers, my husband and I lived on one income for decades at a time when it was much easier to do so, and we are so grateful!! It’s a wonderful privilege to have that freedom. As followers of Christ, though, we are called in any economy to trust His ability to provide for us. No matter what kind of financial climate we face, we must live according to His Word, even though we can't see the path ahead. I do not at all want to minimize the struggles so many face--I remember many years when it was difficult for us to make ends meet. However, it really comes down to our convictions, and a commitment of faith, knowing we always have God’s grace to walk it out with Him! It definitely wasn’t always comfortable for us and there were many challenges. Like the time my husband and I ate oatmeal for a week so our baby could have enough to eat, but God has always been so faithful. We experienced His mighty Hand at work in our finances time and time again. He has proven Himself to be a good, good Father, never failing to provide whatever we needed, in sometimes miraculous ways! 

A CHILD'S BANK: FIRST FAMILY FUND

WE FOUND THE SWEET SPOT

As a young married couple, we were determined to do what we believed the Word of God teaches: my husband was to be the primary breadwinner, and I would keep house and care for the children at home. Not to ignore other necessary financial choices people may make, but regarding our situation, it worked beautifully. We never lacked the essentials and enjoyed many extras as well.

LIVING BY FAITH

We didn’t do it perfectly though. We lived paycheck-to-paycheck, knowing now we could have done so much better by working together more intentionally, and actively seeking God by praying over our decisions. But from the beginning, one of the few right things we knew to do was to give a portion of my husband’s paycheck off the top. When we were first married, he worked for a farmer who provided furnished rent-free housing, utilities except the phone, and $60 a week! Every single paycheck we chose to give $15 to our church, and spent the rest on food and necessities, even feeding a fellow farm employee every day as well. Clearly, my husband is very generous, and I believe God has always honored that decision right from the start.