So how do we cut back? We stop worrying (Ps. 49:16-17; Prov. 24:1); stop coveting (Deut. 5:21); and learn contentment (1 Tim. 6:6-8; Phil. 4:12).

Invest Regularly.

It may seem like a small amount of money, but investing just $20 a week starting early in life can multiply into millions later.

"Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again. Give portions to seven, yes to eight, for you do not know what disaster may come upon the land" (Ecc. 11:1).

So what's it all for? To buy bigger toys? To impress? No...

Help Others.

The fun of having money goes beyond acquiring more stuff. Money allows us to help others in need and make a difference in the world. Many studies show that giving people are happier people.

"A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed" (Prov. 11:25).

J. Steve Miller is author of Enjoy Your Money! How to Make It, Save It, Invest It and Give It (wisdomcreekpress.com/press_kits.html) is founder and president of Legacy Educational Resources. Located in Atlanta, he provides Web-based resources for youth workers (youth-ministry.info) and public school teachers (character-education.info) and speaks to audiences from Atlanta to Moscow. His wife, Cherie, and seven sons freely let him know what does and does not work.