Church News: Money U. available to members on-line

Think of all the blessings to be enjoyed, then rank them top to bottom. Health, wisdom, love, family and prosperity would all be listed high. But perhaps peace would occupy the No. 1 spot on any list of blessings.

Remember the insightful blessing the Savior offered his followers: "My peace, I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid" (John 14:27).

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Title page of on-line money management course suggests value of frugal living and preparing for future.

From the archive

• Church News: First Presidency – Feb. 9, 2008
• <I>Church News: </I>President Gordon B. Hinckley, 1910-2008 – Feb. 2, 2008
• 10% tithe is facing backlash – Nov. 24, 2007
• Money U. available to members on-line – June 23, 2007
• Jolene Parker: Disaster preparation is citizen obligation – Jan. 4, 2007

Centuries later, President Gordon B. Hinckley again promises peace to those who follow the oft-repeated, divine counsel to live providently. Members battling to defeat debt and properly manage their money can find comfort in President Hinckley's words: "Though the storms of life howl about you, you will have shelter and peace in your heart."

Since the early days of the Church, priesthood leaders have taught the blessings of paying a full tithe. They've cautioned members about accruing debt and being careless with their money. Meanwhile, countless general conference addresses have centered on the rich blessings found in simple living.

Now another resource is available to help members live providently and peacefully. An on-line course focusing on money matters has been posted on the Church-operated www.providentliving.org.

Rich in resources both spiritual and practical, the course is designed for all members, regardless of their respective backgrounds or financial situations. The use of consumer debt is growing at an alarming rate and many members are struggling under its weight. But, the online course promises on its title page, there is a way out. "You can know of the peace, security, and joy that come from obedience to principles outlined by the Lord's servants."

Entitled "Peace in Your Hearts: Managing Household Finances Wisely," the online course takes about an hour to complete if one moves directly from one lesson to the next. But visitors would be wise to take their time with each lesson. Involve spouses and other family members. Study and ponder the many resources offered in each chapter of money management.

Supplemental money management brochures and literature are also available at providentliving.org.

The on-line course begins with a brief overview and introduces "students" to the perilous but prevalent notion that debt is not only acceptable in many LDS families — but has become an essential step to "the good life." But it is grinding debt, warns President Hinckley in an audio clip, that can make members "slaves to their creditors."