“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish – lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish. ‘” – Luke 14:28-30
Financial responsibility in the simplest sense means being prepared for the unexpected. This may be borne out in varying situations in life.
I recall one of my financial woes I encountered was the purchase of a 2000 Toyota RAV4. The seller was returning to the USA and didn’t seek to gain the full market value. An opportunity presented itself, so I thought. I had the cash to take it off his hands right away. I was delighted and didn’t even consider the possibility of mechanical failures; after all, it’s a Toyota. What could go wrong? I had my uncle look at it for me, although he was not a mechanic. The selling price was half the cost of the market value of the vehicle. The van surely operated great for a month or two; shortly thereafter, problems started. I have never ever been to a scrapyard or parts establishment so often in my history of owning a motor vehicle, from electrical problems to overhauling and buying a used engine. The total cost spent on repairs to the vehicle, when added to the purchase price paid, almost equalled the market value of the vehicle. You know at this point who was grossly disappointed, felt ripped off, and you know the adjectives!
This again was a timely reminder to be financially responsible by carefully counting the cost of all transactions and to consider the pros and cons. Money in hand gives you options, as opportunity will flow your way, but we must be responsible enough to seek guidance from a professional. In the case cited, a mechanic should have thoroughly checked out the vehicle, which would have prevented or prepared me for the potential spending woes to come.
