How can this be? If you have no utility bills, grow your own food and don’t pay taxes, how much do you need to live in a third world country? Obviously it would not get you through the week in Washington D.C. Many today can spend that much at dinner. The point is to live within your means.
The Bible gives us the concept of moderation and thrift.
(Proverbs 21:17 KJV) He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.The reference to oil may go over your head. They did more than mix it with balsamic vinegar to put on their salads. They used it as a lotion and anointed their heads with it. It was medicinal. The rich would use large quantities for extravagant purposes. Lots to drink and lots of massages can make Jack a poor boy. Today with credit cards we face the same temptation. Middle class Americans use to drive used cars and pass clothes down to their children. It was a Biblical concept.
Another aspect of delayed gratification is leaving something for your children.
(Proverbs 13:22 KJV) A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.The name of the game in Middle Class America is not to die when your last cent is spent. It is not to drive a giant RV with a bumper sticker saying, “We’re spending our children’s inheritance”. Middle Class Morality says you are building for the future. That is why old people plant fruit trees and invest in long term stocks and bonds.
I can’t give you the source but John Wesley was reported to have said, “Make all you can, save all you can, give all you can.” Of course he was also reported to live on £20 a year.
homo unius libri
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