Finishing Like a Champion

By Brian Jacks, MTM
Marketplace Pastor of Christ Church

In every race there is a start and a finish—and The 1322 Challenge is no different. Our 13-week journey, which we began in March, comes to an end this week. As we cross the finish line with the last blog post of this series, let’s remember this: Just as a runner continues to run and train after the race, it is important that we don’t stop either! Let’s continue to excel financially so we accomplish Proverbs 13:22, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.”

Before we pursue next steps, let’s first take a moment to celebrate our accomplishments—similar to a runner crossing the finish line or a sports team winning a championship! Take note of what was accomplished over the last 13 weeks, highlighted by The 1322 Challenge Steps:

• We CONTINUED our Financial Education. Though the pandemic caused us to adjust our plans, those that signed up for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University progressed with a self-paced program. We completed the nine (9) sessions that covered creating a spending plan, steps toward a savings plan starting with emergency savings, and education in a number of practical topics including insurance, real estate/mortgages, and retirement planning. We also encouraged each other along the way through Facebook.


• We CREATED a Spending Plan and offered a number of tools that can be found on the Financial Empowerment Ministry (FEM) website. This website highlights upcoming training workshops, resources, and access to sign up for one-on-one confidential financial coaching.


• We CALCULATED and Practiced Tithing. Though a majority of us were already tithers, many agreed to accept the challenge of giving above their tithe—and thereby grow in the grace of giving. Others committed to tithing for the first time. If you were able to either increase your giving or tithe for the first time over the 13-week journey—CONGRATS! And, as the runner I mentioned earlier, let’s not stop here. Let’s all continue to grow in the grace of giving.


• We CONNECTED as a Community through this blog. Though this is the last blog post in the series, we encourage you to get connected to the FEM website, so you can receive notifications and additional encouragement as you continue improving your financial health.

Congratulations for completing the race! So, moving forward, what can we do?

1. Stick to living on a budget or spending plan
   
   Now that you have a spending plan, it is important to stay disciplined and diligent. Set a financial management routine. As your circumstances change, proactively adjust your plan so it’s practical and relevant. And, take time to celebrate milestones like we are encouraging you to do by completing this 13-week journey.
   

   “A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.”
   

   John Maxwell, Author



2. Continue to eliminate debt
   
   Many of you have learned that creating a debt snowball is a great way to expedite your path to eliminating all debt. Create your plan and stick to it. For more information on the debt snowball, visit the resource section of the Financial Empowerment website.


3. Make sure your estate plan is in order
   
   We highlighted in a few of the blog posts throughout this journey, the importance of having adequate insurance and an estate plan that at least includes a will. Don’t put off these important financial tasks. Please don’t procrastinate. Revisit your estate plan at least every five (5) years or when your circumstances change.
   

   “If it is important to you, you will find a way. If not, you will find an excuse.”
   

   Unknown Author



4. Provide feedback so we can serve you better
   
   Lastly, help us help you. Please take a few moments to take this survey and share how The 1322 Challenge impacted you, and how the Financial Empowerment ministry can assist you moving forward.

So again, congratulations! Athletes that win a race or a championship don’t stop there. They continue to compete. The Olympian after winning the gold starts to train for the next Olympics. Championship basketball, baseball, hockey, and football teams continue to work hard and practice as they seek another championship. Let’s continue beyond our 13-week journey! If we keep diligently practicing our new habits, we'll place ourselves in position to create the best legacy possible for our children’s children!

Let’s commit and continue like champions!