The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. ~John 10:10
How is couponing like the abundant life? Does couponing reveal the abundant life? Is it good stewardship? Or is it motivated by selfishness and greed? This is something I’ve been ruminating on for quite awhile. So let’s go:
1. You have to believe it before you see it. You have to be prepared to experience it. You have to expect it. It doesn’t just happen; it takes practice. And the more you practice, the better you get at it.
Your eyes become attuned to seeing what’s possible. Before I started couponing, actually researching it and practicing it, I did not believe it was possible to obtain the savings that I now regularly procure. I still don’t always see it. I have to look for it. I have to do my homework. But there is also definitely an element of chance and of being in the right place in the right time.
Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. ~Rev. 3:20
2. Flexibility is key. It’s about someone else’s timing, not mine. Always be ready.
The savings are not necessarily something I can control. I must always be watchful and ready to receive or to wait.
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, ~1 Peter 3:15
3. Periods of lack are part of the cycle. Expect them. Don’t freak out when they come.
This cycle of savings is a cycle. It is not never-ending or static. There are times when there are no savings to be had, times when I happily eat soup or work with what’s in my pantry ’til there’s nothing left.
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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. ~Phil. 4:11-12
4. It is a function of community. Friends help each other find tips and encouragement. It is something to be taught and passed on.
I would never have figured all of this out on my own. I am indebted to many women who were willing to share what they know.
Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God ~Titus 2:3-5
What are your thoughts?
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