Do you ever struggle with finances? Our friend Fran has some important lessons to learn about managing her money. I tell this on-going story as though Fran is having a conversation with Jesus throughout her day, because the fact is, as Christians, we do have his presence all the time. We need to practice it more, and hopefully Fran’s story will inspire us to do that.

After Fran gets the kids in bed this evening, she says to herself, “It’s the first of the month. I’ve got to pay bills tonight.”

One of the toughest aspects of being single for Fran is the total responsibility of the finances, and it’s particularly difficult because there’s hardly ever enough money to pay all the bills. She and Jim had moved into their home just before he died, and the mortgage payment is pretty steep.

“Well, what bills will I pull out of the hat this month? Good grief that phone bill is ridiculous. And this dental bill for Alice. All she had was one small cavity,” Fran fumes.

“Oh great,” she exclaims, “I’m $200 short this month.”

“But don’t forget,” Jesus says to her, catching her by surprise, “I’ve promised to take care of you. You will not be brought to shame, or go hungry, or miss anything you need.”

Fran wasn’t aware of his presence until he spoke to her, and then she felt a little defensive. “Yeah, but I still have to pay these bills and that takes money.”

“Well, Fran, see which bills could be eliminated or reduced,” Jesus suggests.

“Well, this cable TV bill—I guess that could go. But the kids enjoy the cartoons,” Fran rationalizes.

“Yes, but they have a lot of good movies, and your mom has bought them several Bible videos,” Jesus reminds her. “Don’t you think that’s enough?”

“Yeah, you’re right. It’s just easy for me to plop them down in front of the television when I’m tired or busy,” Fran candidly admits. “But I’ll cancel the cable tomorrow.”

Looking through the rest of the bills, she says, “I know I could sell the house and live somewhere cheaper, but…” That’s the one thing Fran doesn’t want to consider. “I love my home, Lord,” Fran says.

“Fran, it’s time for you to seek counsel,” Jesus says to her. “Remember Proverbs 20:18: Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance. So, seek some counsel.”