A lot of little decisions about how we manage our money are not as clear as the big ones like tithing.

My mother was telling me the other day that my sister-in-law had wanted to take her for a manicure and a pedicure.  This seemed incredibly indulgent to my mom.  "Some hungry people could be fed with that money if I gave it away," she said.  I have had this conversation with so many women over the years.  So often we spend too much time feeling guilty about the choices we make about money.

I have gone back and forth on this question.  But when she talked about hungry people being fed, I thought about the young Vietnamese woman who does my nails.  (I said I have gone back and forth, but the question was finally settled because I wasn't taking care of my nails.)  She recently had a second child and occasionally brings the children into the shop.  The children are always beautifully dressed and obviously treasured.

These kind of service jobs are often an entry level for immigrants and ones that actually pay enough to survive, especially if they get generous tips.  My guess is that like the immigrant families that we came from, they have larger dreams for their children.

There are so many small decision about our money and our stewardship that we struggle with when perhaps we don't have to.  Some of us spend more on our houses or cars or vacations.  We budget what gives us joy.

Like that should probably be more a decision about whether it puts a strain on your budget (which should be topped by your tithe).  If it fits in your budget you will probably be helping people whether you spend it or give it away.

So maybe the solution is to periodically rethink how you spend your money and whether it give joy and life-to you and to others.  And then enjoy the choices you make.

Lord, Jesus you said that you came to give life and give it abundantly.  Help us to make choices that are life giving for us and for others.  Amen