5 Practical Tips to Lower Your Utility Bills and Embrace Wise Stewardship

5 Practical Tips to Lower Your Utility Bills and Embrace Wise Stewardship 

Have you ever opened your electric bill and almost choked at the number staring back at you? You're not alone. It often feels like our utility bills—heat, air conditioning, water—are just creeping higher and higher, making us feel like we're working just to pay the power company. But what if you could cut some of those costs without freezing in the winter or sweating all summer? Today, I'm excited to share some great tips on how to do just that. 

### Becoming a Financially Confident Christian 

Hi there, I'm Ralph, welcoming you to today's edition of Financially Confident Christian. This is the show where I help you become a more financially confident believer. We're continuing our series on "Breaking the Cycle of Financial Shame," with a focus on gaining control with confidence. If you missed yesterday's show on retirement planning, be sure to check it out—it wasn't your typical retirement talk. 

Today, we're diving into a topic inspired by a conversation I recently had with my youngest son, who's transitioning from a room-sharing arrangement to living alone. Facing bills for electricity, water, and gas for the first time, he asked, "Dad, how can I save money on this?" It became clear that this is a concern many of my listeners share, so let's address this together. 

### Utilities: Not the Fixed Costs You Think They Are 

For many, utility bills seem like fixed costs, an unavoidable part of monthly expenses. You might assume there's nothing you can do about your fixed utility costs, just like a leaking subscription service that silently drains your wallet. But here's the truth—utilities are not fixed costs. You have the power to change how much you pay. 

As believers, managing our finances wisely involves both faith and practical finance management. While saving money financially is an obvious benefit, it also aligns with Christian values of stewardship. Wise stewardship means reducing waste wherever possible. Proverbs 21:20 reminds us, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Applying this wisdom to utilities, not paying for wasteful usage is a smart move. 

### 5 Tips to Save on Utilities 

1. **Adjust the Thermostat:** Lower your thermostat by just two degrees. It sounds minor, but over time, can significantly impact your bill. In winter, add an extra layer for warmth, and in summer, consider raising the temperature slightly and using a fan.

2. **Switch to LED Lighting:** Swap out your traditional bulbs for LED bulbs. These consume far less energy and last substantially longer. The investment pays off in reduced lighting costs over time.

3. **Unplug Unused Chargers:** Chargers consume energy even when not in use. Think about all the chargers we have—for phones, tablets, laptops. Unplugging them when they're not needed could save you around a dollar a day, adding up to around $30 a month.

4. **Manage Shower Time:** If you're running out of hot water quickly, consider shortening your shower by two minutes. You'll save significant amounts of water and energy without much effort.

5. **Spread the Word:** Share these strategies with others. Encourage them to explore these practical tips and visit financiallyconfidentchristian.com for additional resources. I recently wrote a book, "Becoming a Financially Confident Christian," available for free download on our website.

### Embrace Wise Stewardship 

Let's conclude with a prayer:  

Father God, we thank You for providing every resource we need. Help us see the small ways we can save and steward well. Remind us that every dollar and drop of energy matters. Teach us to be wise and faithful, using these savings to promote generosity in return. In Jesus' name, Amen. 

Utilities aren't fixed costs. By making small changes today, you can achieve significant savings tomorrow. Let's spread the word and help others become financially confident Christians, too. 

Join me tomorrow as we address taxes and tips for making tax time less stressful. Until then, stay financially savvy and God bless you!