This Women’s Month, let faith guide your financial habits.
Can We Talk About Money for a Minute?
Hey sister, let’s be honest for a second. How many times have you stood in Target, holding something you didn’t plan to buy? You know you should put it back, but somehow you find it in your cart anyway. Or scrolled through your phone for “just five minutes” only to look up and realize an hour has vanished?
I’ve been there. We all have.
As women of faith, we know we’re called to be good stewards of what God has given us. This includes our money and our time. But sometimes the gap between knowing and doing feels overwhelming, doesn’t it?
This Women’s Month, I want to share something that’s been a game-changer for me and many other women I know. It is a gentle, grace-filled approach to building better financial habits. This method honors both our humanity and our faith.
When Scripture Meets Real Life
Here’s what I love about God’s word—it meets us exactly where we are, messy habits and all. The Bible reminds us that “the earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). It also tells us that “God gives you the power to get wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18).
Everything we have? It’s on loan from Him. That perspective changes everything, including how we handle the small stuff.
The Modified Swear Jar—But Make It Biblical
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “A swear jar? Really?” Stay with me here. This isn’t about punishment or shame. It’s about turning those little moments of “oops, I did it again” into opportunities for growth. These are chances for intentional saving.
Here’s how it works: Every time you catch yourself in a habit you’re trying to change, you pause and breathe. It is impulse buying, doom-scrolling social media, or that inner critic that won’t quit. Then, you put a small amount, like R10, into a special jar.
Think of it as a physical reminder to stop, pray, and redirect. It’s like what Proverbs 21:5 says: “The plans of the diligent lead to profit.” We’re being diligent about our awareness, and that small act of saving is our profit.
Setting It Up (Without the Guilt Trip)
1. Pick One Thing (Just One!) Don’t try to change everything at once. Maybe it’s those afternoon coffee runs that add up, or the way you criticize yourself in the mirror. Choose something that either drains your wallet or your joy.
2. Keep It Simple and Kind A rand here, fifty cents there—nothing that will stress your budget. This is about awareness, not financial strain. Remember, we serve a God of grace, not guilt.
3. Give Your Savings Purpose This is where it gets exciting. What if that jar money went toward:
- A weekend retreat to recharge your soul
- A surprise blessing for someone in your community
- That emergency fund you’ve been meaning to start
- A cause that makes your heart sing
Suddenly, every rand in that jar symbolizes something beautiful God will do through you.
4. Let Scripture Be Your Soundtrack When you drop that money in, whisper a verse like:
- “Honor God with your wealth…” (Proverbs 3:9-10)
- “A generous person will prosper…” (Proverbs 11:25)
- “She considers a field and buys it…” (Proverbs 31:16)
Let God’s truth replace any shame with purpose.
Why This Actually Works
Here’s the beautiful thing about this system—it’s built on grace, not perfection. You’re not beating yourself up; you’re partnering with God to create new patterns. Every coin in that jar is a small victory, a moment where you chose awareness over autopilot.
One friend told me, “I started putting a ten rand in every time I complained about my job. Instead of praying about it, I saved the money.” Six months later, I had enough saved for a course that helped me transition to work I actually love.
Another said, “My ‘peace jar’ for negative self-talk became my daughter’s college fund starter. Every time I chose kindness toward myself, I was also choosing her future.”
Making It Sacred
Give your jar a name that speaks to your heart: “Dreams in Progress,” “God’s Abundance Fund,” or “Kingdom Building Coins.”
Make it beautiful—wrap it in fabric that makes you smile, or paint a verse on it. Let it be a visual reminder that even our smallest choices matter to God.
Set aside time each month to pray over what you’ve saved. Think about what you’ve learned about yourself. Celebrate the growth you’re seeing.
A Word for Your Heart
Sweet sister, this Women’s Month I want you to know something important. God isn’t waiting for you to have perfect financial habits. He can use you as you are. He’s not frustrated with your impulse purchases or your human moments of weakness.
He sees your heart’s wish to honor Him with your resources. He’s cheering you on in every small step toward stewardship. That jar isn’t just collecting change—it’s collecting courage, clarity, and kingdom possibilities.
You are called. You are capable. And yes, you can do this—one intentional moment at a time.
Questions You Might Be Wondering
“Why mix faith with a savings strategy?” Because our faith touches every part of our lives, including our money. When we honor God with our resources—even in small ways—we’re living out Proverbs 3:9-10 in real time. Plus, having a higher purpose makes it easier to stick with new habits.
“What if I forget or mess up my own rules?” Grace wins, every time. Just acknowledge it, reset, and maybe say a quick prayer: “Lord, help me be more intentional tomorrow.” This isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.
“How do I choose what to do with the jar money?” Pray about it. Ask God to show you where He wants to move through your savings. Maybe it’s rest you need, or generosity toward others, or an investment in your future. Trust that He’ll guide your heart toward what matters most.