Keep up with the Joneses

We need to learn to live within our means and at the same time meet our needs. When we try to keep up with the Joneses, we are striving to have what they have. We don’t stop and think about the amount of debt we incur as a result. The Joneses themselves have a fancier car, home, jewelry, and latest model of whatever. We want to have the same things. However, have you stopped and thought about what debt the Joneses might have? Is that new car, big home, and latest gadget paid for or have they been obtained on credit?

If it’s all on credit cards, loans, etc., do you really want to keep up with the Joneses? You don’t know what it might be like in their home when the bills come due. They might be transferring payments from one credit card to another. They might be paying their Visa with the MasterCard and the MasterCard with the American Express. Then, the American Express is being paid for with another credit card or with a loan. Their stress level is probably very high. Outwardly they might appear to be winning the American Dream, but inwardly they are drowning in debt.

You don’t want to keep up with the Joneses. You need to be content with what God has entrusted to you.

Philippians 4:11-13 –  I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

When we are content with what we have, we don’t need to covet the Joneses’ possessions.   When we are content we are living within our means.