Spending Money

When I was working full-time, the director of financial aid for my family gave me an allowance. It didn’t seem like much at the time, but now that I am not working full-time, and hence receiving no (nothing, none, zip, zero) allowance, it seems like the previous amount was a lot.

I read with interest that the State of Kansas has passed a law about how people who are receiving financial aid from the Government (both National and State) have hit a new restriction.

Kansas welfare recipients will be unable to get more than $25 per day in benefits under a new law sent this week to Republican Gov. Sam Brownback’s desk by the state legislature. The bill also prohibits welfare recipients from spending their benefits at certain types of businesses, including liquor stores, fortune tellers, swimming pools and cruise ships. (Huff Post)

Advocates of “welfare” are quick to complain with arguments that don’t make a lot of sense. For example – “How will the needy family pay their rent?” A quick check of Kansas financial assistance laws showed 38 various programs to assist the needy. This particular program, officially TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is “sorta” like a cash allowance. It is money that the family in real need can access up to almost $500 (actually $400 – $500 depending on circumstances) when they genuinely need it. It is not designed to “pay rent,” or discharge student loans, or purchase vacations.

Isn’t it amazing how two or three families using their allowance for liquor purchases and Princess Cruises can make it difficult for everyone else?

The Scripture speaks often of the poor. Jesus said they (the poor) would always be among us (or in my case, be they — hey, just kidding). I am a strong believer in the reality that one of our responsibilities as Believers is to provide where provision is needed. Our Churches and our families must be places where financial needs of those around us can find support. Unfortunately, there are those who will take advantage of every opportunity to take and take and take. Don’t feel guilty when the time comes to say, “NO.” The Scripture also tells us that the one who doesn’t work (see 2 Thessalonians 3:10), doesn’t eat. But then, they probably shouldn’t be going to liquor stores and cruising to Europe either.