1. Four Myths: z“ THINGS bring happiness.” z“Your possessions define who you are.” z“The more you have, the more you should spend.” z“Spending is a COMPETITION.”

2. z Current Behavior: Nothing z Total “Scale Back” Savings: $30 (thermostat) + $25 (share cell plan) + $20 (dial up internet) + $25 (limited basic cable) = $100/month!  Total “Spartan” Savings= $30 (thermostat) + $50 (no cell phone) + $20 (dial up internet) + $40 (no cable TV)= $140/month! Finding $100

3. The Prudent Consumer Is: One who enjoys the fruits of their labor yet guards against materialism.

4. Three Biblical Financial Principles: zBeware of idols. zGuard against GREED. zBe CONTENT.

5. When we practice MODERATION and learn contentment, we become free to be a blessing to others.

6. Key Question: Are you willing to “drive your stake” lifestyle-wise?

7. Driving Your Stake Means: zThere will be a point in time when you declare, “Enough is enough.” zYou distinguish between your TRUE needs and what the culture says you need.

8. Tips for Mortgage/Taxes/Rent: zConsider the issue of renting vs. owning. zThink PREPAYMENT of mortgage. zBeware of basing a mortgage on TWO INCOMES. zExercise caution toward equity loans. zConsider an extended household.

9. Maintenance and Repairs: Become a Mr. or Ms. “Fix-it”

10. Utilities: zControl the thermostat. zUse phones wisely. zEvaluate options for Internet and cable services.

11. Spending Plan Application Individual Activity:

12. Transportation Quiz zWhat is the least expensive car you can own?

13. Transportation Quiz zWhat is the least expensive car you can own? zWhen is it economically wise to buy a new (never-owned) car?

14. Transportation Quiz zWhat is the least expensive car you can own? zWhen is it economically wise to buy a new (never-owned) car? zWhat are the economic advantages to leasing?

15. Transportation Quiz zWhat is the least expensive car you can own? zWhen is it economically wise to buy a new (never-owned) car? zWhat are the economic advantages to leasing? zWhat is the proper mileage at which it is best to unload the old car?

16. Statistics: zAverage Reliability yLife = 10.2 years yMileage = 120,000 zAverage Trade-in yTime = 4 years yMileage = 50,000

17. Pay Cash for Your Next Car!.

18. Auto Insurance Tips: zChoose the highest deductible you can afford. zShop for it. zCOMBINE policies. zLook for other discounts. zConsider eliminating COLLISION coverage on an older car.

19. Life Insurance zConsider renewable term. zConsider whether insurance is necessary.

20. Household/Personal zClothing zGambling

21. Household/ Personal and Entertainment Ideas and Spending Plan Application Individual Activity: