POWER AGAINST UNNECESSARY SPENDING

TITLE: POWER AGAINST UNNECESSARY SPENDING
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Mark 5:25-34 (NKJV) – "Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse."

Supporting Texts:
Jeremiah 30:17 (NKJV) – "For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds, says the Lord, because they called you an outcast saying: 'This is Zion; no one seeks her.'"
Proverbs 21:20
Matthew 6:19-21

INTRODUCTION:
In today’s society, unnecessary spending has become a common challenge. Many find themselves in financial strain due to impulsive purchases or lifestyle choices that do not align with their true needs. The story of the woman with the issue of blood serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of unnecessary spending and the divine power available to restore us. In this sermon, we will explore how we can tap into God’s power to overcome unnecessary spending and achieve financial wisdom.

1. THE COST OF UNNECESSARY SPENDING
Understanding the consequences of unnecessary spending is crucial to breaking the cycle.

a) The Woman’s Situation: The woman suffered physically, emotionally, and financially due to her ailment (Mark 5:25-26). Her spending on doctors only exacerbated her condition, showing how unnecessary expenditure can lead to more significant problems.

b) Emotional and Spiritual Toll: Unnecessary spending often leads to guilt and stress, affecting our emotional well-being (Proverbs 12:15).

c) Spiritual Implications: Excessive spending can divert our focus from God and His provision, leading to spiritual emptiness (Matthew 6:24).

d) The Burden of Debt: The accumulation of debt due to poor financial decisions can become a weight we carry, hindering our ability to serve God effectively (Proverbs 22:7).

Biblical Example:
The Israelites faced financial hardship when they wandered in the desert, demonstrating how poor choices can lead to prolonged suffering (Exodus 16).

2. RECOGNISING THE NEED FOR CHANGE
Acknowledging the need for financial wisdom is the first step towards transformation.

a) The Realisation of Lack: The woman recognised that all her efforts had not improved her situation; rather, they had left her worse off (Mark 5:26).

b) Identifying Triggers: Understanding what drives our unnecessary spending—whether it’s emotional triggers or societal pressures—can help us make better decisions (Jeremiah 30:17).

c) Seeking God’s Help: Just as the woman sought healing from Jesus, we must seek divine guidance in our financial decisions (James 1:5).

d) Evaluating Priorities: Reflecting on our spending habits can help us align our finances with God’s will (Matthew 6:21).

Biblical Example:
Zacchaeus, after encountering Jesus, changed his approach to money, recognising the need for restitution and wise stewardship (Luke 19:8-9).

3. TAP INTO DIVINE POWER FOR RESTORATION
God’s power can restore us from the consequences of unnecessary spending.

a) Jesus’ Healing Touch: The woman was healed when she touched Jesus' garment, illustrating the power of faith in God’s ability to restore (Mark 5:27-29).

b) Divine Restoration: God promises restoration and healing, not just physically but also financially and spiritually (Jeremiah 30:17).

c) Acting in Faith: Faith requires action; we must actively seek to align our spending with God’s will and purpose (Hebrews 11:6).

d) God’s Provision: Trusting in God's provision means believing He will meet our needs without resorting to unnecessary expenditure (Philippians 4:19).

Biblical Example:
The widow of Zarephath, who trusted God during a time of famine, experienced miraculous provision (1 Kings 17:14-16).

4. PRACTICAL STEPS TOWARDS FINANCIAL WISDOM
Implementing practical measures can help us avoid unnecessary spending.

a) Create a Budget: Establishing a budget helps track income and expenses, ensuring we prioritise essential needs over wants (Proverbs 21:20).

b) Limit Impulsive Purchases: Taking a step back before making purchases can help us determine necessity versus desire (Proverbs 21:5).

c) Seek Accountability: Finding a trusted friend or mentor to discuss financial habits can help us stay accountable (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

d) Invest in Wisdom: Educating ourselves on financial management and stewardship can lead to better decisions (Proverbs 1:5).

Biblical Example:
Joseph’s wise management of resources during famine demonstrates the importance of planning and prudence (Genesis 41:46-49).

CONCLUSION:
Power against unnecessary spending lies in recognising the divine resources available to us. By seeking God’s guidance, understanding the implications of our financial choices, and implementing practical steps, we can transform our spending habits. Just as the woman with the issue of blood found healing and restoration, we too can experience God’s power in our finances, ensuring we live within our means and trust in His provision.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me recognise areas of unnecessary spending in my life.

2. I pray for wisdom to manage my finances according to Your will.

3. Remove emotional triggers that lead me to impulsive purchases.

4. I declare restoration over my financial situation in Jesus’ name!

5. Help me prioritise my spending and focus on what truly matters.

6. Grant me the discipline to stick to my budget and financial goals.

7. I pray for divine guidance in my financial decisions.

8. May I experience Your provision in times of need, Lord!

9. Surround me with wise counsel for better financial management.

10. I declare freedom from debt and financial burdens in my life!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that your eyes will be opened to see the truth in your spending habits!

2. Unnecessary spending will not hinder your financial progress any longer!

3. You will experience divine restoration in every area of your finances!

4. Every debt is broken by the power of Jesus' name!

5. God will grant you the wisdom to make sound financial decisions!

6. You will walk in abundance as you align your spending with God’s purpose!

7. Your financial struggles will become testimonies of God's provision!

8. You will be a steward of God’s resources, managing them wisely!

9. God will surprise you with His miraculous provision in your life!

10. You are set free to live a life of financial peace and stability!