May 15, 2025

Paying Off Debt? Why You Might Need to Ditch the Plastic

Paying Off Debt? Why You Might Need to Ditch the Plastic

Trying to Pay Off Debt? Should You Stop Using Credit Cards?

Many individuals, burdened by the weight of financial obligations, find themselves pondering a critical question: are credit cards an aid or an obstacle on the path to financial peace? This is a common and often perplexing issue for those striving to honor their financial commitments and manage resources wisely. The journey to debt freedom is a significant aspect of sound financial stewardship, and the decision regarding credit card use can dramatically influence the pace and success of this journey. This exploration seeks to address this question with practical wisdom and a perspective centered on established financial principles, aiming to help individuals make informed decisions. The very act of questioning one's current financial tools implies a desire for positive change and a search for effective strategies. This discussion is intended not as a reprimand but as a guide toward liberation from debt, offering a hopeful and empowering outlook. Individuals often seek advice that is both financially sound and aligns with their core values; this examination endeavors to bridge this gap, ensuring that guidance considers both practical and principled aspects. That’s why it’s worth asking if your current tools are helping or hindering your progress. So, are you paying off debt? You might need to ditch the plastic.

The Pressing Question on Your Path to Debt Freedom 

Many individuals, burdened by the weight of financial obligations, find themselves pondering a critical question: are credit cards an aid or an obstacle on the path to financial peace? This is a common and often perplexing issue for those striving to honor their financial commitments and manage resources wisely. The journey to debt freedom is a significant aspect of sound financial stewardship, and the decision regarding credit card use can dramatically influence the pace and success of this journey. This exploration seeks to address this question with practical wisdom and a perspective centered on established financial principles, aiming to help individuals make informed decisions. The very act of questioning one's current financial tools implies a desire for positive change and a search for effective strategies. This discussion is intended not as a reprimand but as a guide toward liberation from debt, offering a hopeful and empowering outlook. Individuals often seek advice that is both financially sound and aligns with their core values; this examination endeavors to bridge this gap, ensuring that guidance considers both practical and principled aspects.

The Double-Edged Sword: Why Credit Cards Can Hinder Your Debt Payoff

Credit cards often present an allure of convenience, rewards, and expanded purchasing power.1 However, for individuals already managing debt, this perceived "power" can quickly transform into a snare. The convenience offered by credit cards can become a significant liability when one is already grappling with debt, as the ease of use can mask the deepening of financial difficulties.The structure of credit card debt, with minimum payments, high interest rates, and compounding interest, frequently works against the debtor. Many individuals find that if they carry a balance every month, they end up paying more in interest and fees than they earn in rewards.1 As of March 2025, the average interest rate on credit cards was reported at 24.20%.1 Interest on credit cards is often compounded daily, meaning that debt can grow even without making new purchases.3 This cycle makes it exceedingly difficult to make headway on the principal balance.Furthermore, credit cards can act as a "temptation trap," making it easier to overspend and engage in impulse buying.1 Because the transaction is often a simple swipe or click, the psychological impact of spending is diminished. This ease can lead individuals to spend more than they initially intended or to purchase items they had not planned for.1

For those actively trying to reduce their debt, this characteristic of credit card use is particularly problematic.The psychological dimension of credit card use is significant. Professor Drazen Prelec's research highlights that credit cards can "disconnect the pleasure of buying from the pain of paying".4 This phenomenon, termed the "blurring of the moral tax," suggests that the psychological cost of spending a dollar on a credit card might feel like only fifty cents to the consumer.4 This disconnect is a critical factor in understanding why debt can accumulate so readily with credit cards. When spending decisions are detached from the immediate reality of their financial impact, it can inadvertently lead to a lack of mindfulness in financial dealings, an aspect that contrasts with principles of careful stewardship.Beyond interest, various hidden costs can add to the financial burden. These include annual fees for the privilege of using the card, late payment fees, and over-limit fees, all of which can exacerbate an existing debt situation.1 For individuals carrying balances, the allure of rewards like points or cashback is often a net loss, as the interest paid typically far outweighs the monetary value of these perks.1 Focusing on rewards while in debt can be a financially detrimental distraction rather than a sound strategy.

A Higher Calling: What Foundational Principles Say About Debt and Stewardship

From many ethical and principled standpoints, while borrowing is not always explicitly forbidden, debt is consistently portrayed as a burden. A well-known adage states, "the borrower is slave to the lender" (a concept found in texts like Proverbs 22:7), underscoring the restrictive nature of debt.5 Another guiding principle, often cited from texts like Romans 13:8, encourages individuals to "Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another," promoting a goal of striving for debt freedom.6The effort to pay off debt can be viewed as an act of faithful stewardship. Financial resources are often considered a trust, and managing them wisely—which includes avoiding the constraints of debt—is a way to honor that trust. Some perspectives even suggest that debt is not an ideal state, encouraging individuals to seek freedom from it.6Achieving financial peace through debt freedom is often linked to a greater sense of overall well-being and an enhanced ability to contribute to broader community and charitable goals without the encumbrance of financial constraints.

There is often "great peace of mind in becoming debt free".7 Beyond the immediate financial stress, debt can limit an individual's freedom to pursue various callings or opportunities, whether in giving, service, or making significant life changes. Financial bondage can, in essence, curtail broader personal and communal engagement.The prevalent "buy now, pay later" culture, often fueled by credit, contrasts sharply with principles of contentment and reliance on careful planning and provision.5 The modern habit of borrowing for consumable goods and lifestyle expenses is a relatively recent phenomenon when viewed through a historical lens. This reliance on credit for everyday living can sometimes reflect a departure from contentment and trust in one's own well-managed resources and timely provision. For many, tackling debt is not merely a financial exercise; it is an active application of their principles, requiring diligence and a commitment to sound financial management. Some approaches even frame debt reduction as a focused effort requiring strong conviction.6

 Cutting Ties: The Powerful Benefits of Going Credit-Card-Free (At Least for Now)

For individuals striving to escape the cycle of debt, ceasing credit card use is often the most direct and effective method to halt further debt accumulation. This decisive step can compel the development of new, healthier financial habits.1 The "forced discipline" that comes from removing the option of credit spending can be invaluable for those who find the abstract limits of credit difficult to manage.The use of cash or a debit card introduces a tangible reality to spending: one cannot spend more money than is actually available in an account.1 The physical act of handing over cash can make expenditures feel more significant, thereby naturally curbing impulse purchases.8 Studies have indicated that individuals may spend up to 30% less when using cash simply because parting with physical money is psychologically more impactful than swiping a card.7 This tangibility helps re-establish a healthier respect for money and the effort required to earn it, a connection that can be diluted by the effortless nature of credit transactions. The "pain of paying" is more acute with cash, serving as an important feedback mechanism that can be dulled by credit, potentially distorting the perceived value of items and the cost of money.4Budgeting also tends to become simpler and more effective within a cash or debit-based system. As money is spent, the available balance visibly decreases, providing immediate feedback and reinforcing adherence to the budget.1

This direct correlation is often missing with credit cards, where the day of reckoning (the bill) is delayed.A significant benefit of eliminating the primary tool of debt accumulation is the potential for reduced financial stress and anxiety.1 The knowledge that purchases are owned outright, without accruing future debt, can bring a considerable measure of peace. An interesting psychological aspect highlighted by research is that some individuals prefer using cash for purchases they might later feel ambivalent about, as cash transactions leave no electronic or paper trail, allowing a sense of "forgetting" the expenditure.9 While not an endorsement of irresponsible spending, this illustrates the psychological relief that the anonymity of cash can offer compared to the detailed accounting of credit card statements.

While transitioning to a cash-only or debit-only system might feel restrictive initially, it can be viewed as a short-term adjustment for the long-term reward of financial freedom and peace. This aligns with the principle of enduring temporary challenges or discipline for a greater future good, a concept found in many philosophical and ethical traditions.

But What About My Credit Score? Navigating the Concerns

Concerns about the impact of financial decisions on credit scores are legitimate. A credit score can influence the ability to secure loans, rent housing, and in some instances, may even be a factor in employment opportunities.10 It is widely understood that responsible credit card use, characterized by consistent on-time payments and maintaining low balances relative to credit limits, can contribute positively to building a credit history.2 This is often the primary argument for maintaining credit card accounts.However, the act of closing credit card accounts can have specific impacts. One key factor is the credit utilization ratio, which is the amount of credit being used compared to the total available credit. Closing a card reduces the total available credit. If balances are carried on other cards, this action will increase the utilization ratio, potentially lowering the credit score.12 For example, if an individual has $10,000 in total credit across two cards and a $3,000 balance (30% utilization), closing one card with a $5,000 limit (assuming the balance is on the other card) would change the total available credit to $5,000, and the utilization would jump to 60% ($3,000/$5,000).14Another consideration is the length of credit history. Closing older credit card accounts can reduce the average age of an individual's credit history, which may also negatively affect the score.12 Lenders generally view a longer history of responsible credit management favorably.From a broader perspective, it is important to weigh these potential impacts against the primary goal of achieving debt freedom. A temporary dip in a credit score might be a worthwhile trade-off for the long-term benefits of financial peace and stability. It has been noted that while a credit score might initially "take a bit of a hit" if an account with a balance is closed, the score "will steadily go back up as you pay down your debt".7

The ultimate aim is financial health, and a high credit score accompanied by crushing debt does not represent true financial well-being. The credit score should be viewed as a financial tool, not a master that dictates decisions to the detriment of overall financial and personal peace. For someone burdened by debt, the fear of a score drop should not prevent them from taking necessary actions, such as ceasing credit card use, to achieve liberation.The advice to use credit cards "responsibly" to build credit is sound for those not already in debt.2 However, for an individual struggling with credit card debt, the definition of "responsible use" often needs to shift to "no use" until the debt is eliminated and healthier financial habits are firmly established. The very tool suggested for credit building can be the instrument of financial difficulty for someone in a debt crisis; context is paramount. Keeping cards open solely to maintain a credit score can be a perilous strategy if discipline is an issue, as it may provide a gateway back into debt. Ultimately, paying off debt is one of the most beneficial actions for long-term credit health. An individual with no debt and a slightly lower, but still good, credit score is often in a much stronger financial position than someone with a high score but also high levels of debt. The focus should be on the sustainable, long-term health of one's financial situation.

Making Your Decision: Should You Stop Using Credit Cards? 

The decision of whether to stop using credit cards while paying off debt is a personal one, requiring honest self-assessment and careful consideration of one's unique circumstances. There is no universal answer that applies to everyone.

Individuals should engage in a period of sincere reflection, perhaps asking themselves questions such as:

  • "Am I consistently disciplined enough to use a credit card strictly for budgeted items and pay the balance in full every month, without fail, especially while under the stress of existing debt?"
  • "Do credit cards represent a significant temptation for me to overspend or make impulse purchases?" 1
  • "How severe is my current debt situation? Am I making tangible progress, or does it feel like I am merely treading water or, worse, sinking further into debt?"
  • "What does my most careful judgment, guided by my core principles, suggest is the wisest path toward financial freedom?"

Stopping credit card use, often referred to as the "cold turkey" approach, is highly recommended in several scenarios:

  • If an individual consistently carries a balance from month to month.
  • If credit cards are frequently used for emotional spending or to purchase unbudgeted items.
  • If the mere thought of using a credit card triggers anxiety about accumulating more debt.
  • If one is following a rigorous debt-elimination plan, such as those advocated by financial advisors like Dave Ramsey, which often advise ceasing credit card use entirely.15 The core principle is clear: eliminate the tool that facilitates debt.

The option of maintaining very disciplined, limited use of a single credit card might be considered, but only with extreme caution and under stringent conditions. This path is generally not advisable for those who have a history of struggling with credit card debt. The decision should also be guided by what brings the most peace of mind. If keeping and using a credit card, however carefully, causes ongoing anxiety about potential misuse or further debt, this is a strong indicator that ceasing use altogether may be the more prudent course. The pursuit of financial stability should also lead to greater personal tranquility.

For many who are struggling with debt, even an attempt at "disciplined" credit card use can be a slippery slope leading back to old, detrimental habits.1 The path that minimizes temptation is often to remove the source of temptation entirely. Radical honesty about one's own habits, tendencies, and weaknesses is paramount in this decision-making process, as many individuals may overestimate their capacity for discipline when it comes to credit.

To aid in this decision, the following table summarizes the primary considerations:

Table 1: Pros and Cons of Stopping Credit Card Use While Paying Off Debt

Aspect

Pros of Stopping Credit Card Use

Cons of Stopping Credit Card Use (or Cautions)

Debt Accumulation

Halts further debt accumulation from credit card spending.1

None directly, but requires alternative for true emergencies if no emergency fund exists.

Budgeting & Spending

Forces budgeting with tangible money (cash/debit) 1; reduces impulse buys and overspending.1

Less flexibility for unplanned expenses if an emergency fund is not yet established.

Financial Well-being

Can significantly lessen financial stress and anxiety 1; simplifies financial management.

May cause initial anxiety if one relies on cards for a sense of security (false or otherwise).

Principled Alignment

Aligns with the principle of "owe no one anything" and striving for debt freedom.6

None.

Credit Score Impact

Eliminates risk of high utilization due to new spending; allows focus on paying down existing balances which improves score.

Potential temporary credit score dip due to changes in credit utilization ratio and average age of accounts if cards are closed.12

Other Benefits/Losses

Focuses all financial energy on debt elimination.

Loss of credit card rewards (minor if carrying debt, as interest costs negate rewards 1); loss of some purchase protections.

Your Action Plan: Moving Forward with Wisdom 

Once a decision is made, a clear action plan is essential.

  1. If You're Stopping Credit Card Use:

For those choosing to cease credit card use, several practical steps can reinforce this decision and help break old patterns. The act of physically altering or removing access to cards can be a powerful psychological step.

  • The "Plastic Surgery" Ritual: Literally cutting up the credit cards can be a symbolic act of commitment to a new financial path.8 This creates a tangible moment of decision. Some financial advisors suggest a "Use it and lose it" policy: if a person, despite their best intentions, slips up and uses a credit card, they should then close that account immediately to prevent further use.7
  • Freeze Them Out: Another effective tactic is to freeze credit cards in a block of ice.8 This creates a physical barrier and a time delay, making it much harder to use the cards impulsively. This intentional "friction" counteracts the effortless spending that credit cards are designed to facilitate.
  • Out of Sight, Out of Mind (and Wallet): Remove all saved credit card numbers from online shopping accounts and digital wallets. If it is deemed absolutely necessary to keep one card for true, pre-defined emergencies (and only if an emergency fund is not yet adequate), it should be stored in a very inconvenient and secure location, not carried in a wallet or purse. This should be approached with extreme caution.
  • Switch to Cash/Debit for Everything: Fully embrace a system of using only cash or a debit card for all expenses.8 Methods like the envelope system, where cash is allocated to specific spending categories, can be very effective.
  • Inform Joint Account Holders: If credit cards are shared with a spouse or other authorized users, it is crucial to ensure everyone is in agreement and adheres to the plan to stop using the cards.
  • Build Your Budget Around Actual Cash Flow: All spending must now be dictated by the actual funds available in bank accounts, not by an arbitrary credit limit. This forces a more realistic and disciplined approach to financial management.
  1. If You Keep One Card (for True Emergencies or Specific Budgeted Items ONLY – with Extreme Caution):

This path is presented with significant reservations and is not recommended for most individuals who have previously struggled with credit card debt. It requires an exceptionally high level of discipline and vigilance. The risk of slipping back into old habits is considerable. For those whose primary goal for keeping a card is future credit building, utilizing a secured credit card after existing debts are managed and financial habits are reformed is generally a much safer and more constructive approach.18

If, despite these cautions, an individual believes they can manage a single card with extreme responsibility, the following "Zero Tolerance" rules must be non-negotiable:

  • Rule 1: Pay in Full, Always, No Exceptions. The entire balance must be paid off every month by the due date. If this cannot be done for any reason, the card must be immediately locked away or cut up.20
  • Rule 2: Budget First, Then Charge (If At All). The card should only be used for expenses that have already been explicitly allocated in the budget and for which funds are already available to pay the charge off immediately.20 It is not to be used for unbudgeted items or to bridge income gaps.
  • Rule 3: Track Every Single Penny. All transactions on the card must be meticulously tracked, ideally daily or at least weekly, to maintain constant awareness of the balance and spending patterns.20
  • Rule 4: Define "Emergency" Narrowly. If the card is kept for emergencies, "emergency" must be defined very strictly: an unexpected, essential expense (e.g., an urgent medical need for which no other funds are available, a critical car repair necessary for employment). It is not a sale, a want, or a convenience. A plan must be in place to pay off any emergency charge as rapidly as possible.
  • Rule 5: No New Debt Accumulation. Under no circumstances should the use of this card contribute to an increase in overall debt levels. Its balance must return to zero each month.

This path is fraught with temptation. For individuals in debt, "responsible use" 20 takes on an extraordinarily strict meaning: it's not merely about paying on time, but about

never carrying a balance and only using the card for pre-funded, budgeted expenses. The margin for error is effectively zero. The stringency of these rules underscores why completely stopping credit card use is often the more prudent and effective strategy for the majority of people working to overcome debt.

Accelerating Your Freedom: Proven Debt Attack Strategies

Simply discontinuing the use of credit cards is a crucial first step, but it is not, by itself, a complete solution to existing debt. An aggressive and systematic plan is needed to eliminate outstanding balances and achieve true financial freedom. Two widely recognized strategies for accelerating debt repayment are the Debt Snowball and the Debt Avalanche methods.

The Debt Snowball:

This method focuses on building momentum through psychological wins. The mechanics are as follows:

  1. List all debts from the smallest balance to the largest balance, irrespective of interest rates.
  2. Make minimum payments on all debts except for the one with the smallest balance.
  3. Allocate all available extra cash to aggressively pay down that smallest debt.
  4. Once the smallest debt is eliminated, take the entire amount that was being paid on it (the minimum payment plus all extra payments) and "roll it over" to the next smallest debt.
  5. Continue this process, with the payment amount "snowballing" larger with each debt that is paid off, until all debts are eliminated.7

The primary advantage of the Debt Snowball is the motivation derived from achieving quick wins by paying off smaller debts relatively rapidly.15 This can provide encouragement and sustain commitment over the long term. This behavioral benefit often aligns well with the need for perseverance and positive reinforcement, especially when the debt-reduction journey feels daunting. Paying off debt is often less about pure mathematics and more about sustained positive behavior; the Snowball method directly supports this.

The Debt Avalanche:

This method prioritizes debts by their interest rate to minimize the total interest paid over time. The mechanics are:

  1. List all debts from the highest Annual Percentage Rate (APR) to the lowest APR.
  2. Make minimum payments on all debts except for the one with the highest APR.
  3. Allocate all available extra cash to aggressively pay down the debt with the highest interest rate.
  4. Once that debt is eliminated, apply the funds that were going towards it to the debt with the next highest APR.
  5. Continue this process until all debts are paid.23

The mathematical advantage of the Debt Avalanche is that it typically results in paying less total interest over the life of the loans compared to the Debt Snowball.24 This method is often favored by individuals who are highly disciplined and motivated by optimizing the financial aspects of debt repayment.Key to Both: Extra Payments! It is crucial to understand that the effectiveness of both the Debt Snowball and Debt Avalanche methods hinges on the ability to make payments that are significantly above the minimum required. This necessitates creating a detailed budget, identifying areas where expenses can be cut, and potentially finding ways to increase income. All extra funds generated should be channeled directly into the debt repayment plan.15 Regardless of the chosen method, the common denominator for success is intensity and a willingness to make temporary sacrifices to achieve the long-term goal of debt freedom. This focused effort is paramount.

To help differentiate these strategies, the following table provides a quick comparison:

Table 2: Debt Snowball vs. Debt Avalanche: A Quick Comparison

Factor

Debt Snowball

Debt Avalanche

Order of Attack

Smallest balance to largest balance.24

Highest interest rate (APR) to lowest APR.24

Primary Benefit

Quick wins provide psychological motivation and build momentum.15

Saves the most money on interest payments over the long term.24

Best For Whom

Individuals who need encouragement and are motivated by seeing rapid progress.

Individuals who are highly disciplined and primarily focused on minimizing costs.

Total Interest Paid

Potentially more interest paid compared to Avalanche.24

Least amount of total interest paid.24

Psychological Effect

Highly motivating due to frequent successes.

Can sometimes be slower to show initial progress if high-APR debts are large.

Rebuilding and Maintaining: Credit Health After (or During) Debt Payoff

The ultimate objective of managing debt and credit is to cultivate responsible, sustainable financial behavior. A good credit score is often a natural byproduct of these healthy habits, rather than an end in itself.

Using a Secured Credit Card to Rebuild (If Necessary): For individuals whose credit history has been negatively impacted by past debt or for those with limited credit history, a secured credit card can be a valuable tool for rebuilding. A secured card is backed by a cash deposit made by the cardholder, and this deposit typically determines the card's credit limit.18 This collateral reduces the risk for the issuer, making these cards more accessible.Secured cards help by allowing the user to establish a positive payment history, as most issuers report activity to the major credit bureaus.18 To use a secured card effectively for credit rebuilding, it is vital to make only small, budgeted purchases that can be paid off in full and on time each month.18 This demonstrates responsible credit management. When selecting a secured card, it is beneficial to look for one that offers the potential to "graduate" to an unsecured card after a period of consistent, positive payment history.19 For those whose credit has been damaged, secured cards offer a practical path to "redeem" their creditworthiness, a concept that aligns with principles of restoration and fresh starts.

Long-Term Responsible Credit Habits (Post-Debt Freedom):

Once debt freedom is achieved, or as one progresses significantly along that path, maintaining responsible credit habits is crucial to prevent future problems. These habits include:

  • Using credit, if at all, only for budgeted items that can be paid off immediately and in full.
  • Paying all bills on time, every time. Payment history is a major factor in credit scores.
  • Keeping credit utilization low. A common recommendation is to use less than 30% of the available credit limit on any card.20
  • Avoiding the opening of too many new credit accounts in a short period, as this can negatively impact a credit score.
  • Periodically reviewing credit reports from all major bureaus for accuracy and disputing any errors.

The Trap of Old Habits:

A critical aspect of long-term financial health is vigilance against complacency. After achieving the significant milestone of debt freedom, it is essential not to revert to the spending patterns or financial behaviors that initially led to debt. Financial stewardship is an ongoing practice, not a one-time fix. Maintaining financial health requires sustained discipline and adherence to sound principles.

You're Not Alone: Resources and Support

The journey out of debt can be challenging, and acknowledging the need for help or guidance is a sign of strength and wisdom, not weakness. Several resources can provide support and practical assistance.

Christian Credit Counselors and Non-Profit Agencies: Organizations such as Christian credit counseling services and other non-profit credit counseling agencies can offer invaluable support. These agencies typically provide services such as helping individuals create workable budgets, negotiating with creditors to potentially achieve lower interest rates or waived fees, and establishing Debt Management Plans (DMPs).5 A DMP consolidates multiple unsecured debts into a single, manageable monthly payment, often resulting in reduced overall interest payments and a significantly faster debt payoff timeline.27 In a culture that often prizes self-sufficiency, admitting the need for financial help can be difficult. However, seeking wise counsel is a prudent step in good stewardship.

Church Support Systems:

Many faith communities offer support systems that can be beneficial. This might include financial literacy classes, small groups focused on stewardship, or accountability partners who can provide encouragement and help maintain focus on financial goals. Debt often carries a sense of shame and can be an isolating burden. Community and counseling resources can combat this isolation by offering shared strength and understanding.

Prayer and Principle-Centered Guidance: For those who approach finances from a faith perspective, prayer for wisdom, discipline, and strength throughout the debt-elimination process is a vital resource.6 Relying on foundational principles of stewardship and financial responsibility can provide a strong anchor during challenging times.

Embracing Financial Peace and Sound Stewardship

The decision to stop using credit cards while actively working to pay off debt is, for many, a wise and liberating step. It is often a critical component of a successful strategy to achieve both financial stability and a greater sense of personal peace. This choice directly addresses one of the primary mechanisms by which debt can accumulate and persist.

It is important to remember that achieving freedom from debt is an attainable goal. With a solid plan, consistent discipline, the right support systems, and for many, a reliance on their faith and principles, overcoming financial burdens is possible. A sentiment often shared is that "with God all things are possible," reflecting a hopeful outlook on surmounting challenges.7

The journey to financial well-being is not merely about numbers on a balance sheet; it is about achieving a state of freedom—freedom from the stress and anxiety that debt often brings, freedom to be more generous, and freedom to pursue life's callings without the heavy encumbrance of financial obligations. This broader vision of freedom is the ultimate "why" behind the effort.

Individuals are encouraged to take the first step today. This might involve a period of prayerful self-assessment, the symbolic act of cutting up a credit card, the practical step of creating a detailed budget, or reaching out to a reputable credit counseling service for guidance. Each positive action moves one closer to the goal. The path to becoming a good steward of one's resources and experiencing the profound peace that comes with financial responsibility is a journey of empowered, informed choices.

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