People everywhere lately are feeling the economic squeeze, whether it be the price of gas or groceries, they are concerned about their financial situation. Articles throughout the internet are giving daily advice on how to save money, invest wisely, or survive the housing slump, just to name a few. I am all about saving money, but what concerns me is a trend to compromise one’s integrity in order to save a few dollars.

For example, I find many good deals at CVS using my Extra Care Card, not my Extra Care Cards. The CVS policy is one card per household, but many people have multiple cards so they can work the deals again and again. At restaurants, I have seen people order water (for free) and then fill up their cup with soda. If you are under charged for an item do you ask the cashier to correct the mistake or do you just think of it as a bonus? Would you lie about your child’s age in order to pay the lower price for a meal or admission to an attraction?

My husband recently heard a lecture by a well know “frugal fanny.” A story was told about the son who worked as a bagger for a grocery store. This store did not allow customers to tip the baggers. When a customer offered to tip the son, the son responded that he wasn’t allowed to take tips, but said if the money somehow landed in the cart or on the ground, that was okay. The speaker actually praised the son for being creative and making extra money. What kind of lesson is that for our children, that money is our number one priority?

Jesus says in Mark 8:36-37 “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? For what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

As we strive live our lives in a frugal manner let’s not forget what is most important. One of the main reasons we decided to change our financial situation was for our children. I want to be an example to my kids of how they should live their lives. If I am always bending the rules for my own gain, my children will most likely do the same. I remember once when I was a child I found some money ( I think it was $20) in the mall parking lot. I was very excited about finding the money and was about to pocket it when my mother told me that we should take it to the mall office so that if someone came to find it they would be able to get their money back. I would be lying to say that I wasn’t sorely disappointed. I very sadly walked with my mom to the mall office, explained what happened, and then handed over the money. I think they told me they would call me if no one claimed the money. I was pretty young, but old enough to know that I wasn’t going to get a phone call.

Even though 25 years ago that experience was painful to me, I look back on it and realize what a valuable lesson I learned. Growing up we didn’t have a lot of money. I am sure we could have put that money to good use, but my mom knew that money wasn’t ours to spend and attempted to find its rightful owner. You know, I can’t remember if anyone claimed that money or not, but that really isn’t the point. Many times when I am in a situation, involving money, which could compromise my integrity I remember that day. While I like to save money and find great deals, those things are secondary. What is more important is striving each day to live in a way that honors God, my husband, and my family.

Paul says in Philippians 4:6-13

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy”think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

For more of Frugal Friday visit Crystal’s blog.