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."

Visitors are also asked to approach this course differently than they would other money management programs. Be prayerful and attentive to personal revelation while studying the course. Listen for the Lord's direction as you work to overcome debt or find ways to save for retirement or a mission. Establish a plan that can be shared with family members and local priesthood leaders.

The first lesson — "Pay Tithes and Offerings" — reminds visitors that God is the ultimate Giver. Enlisting scripture and the words of contemporary Church leaders, the lesson emphasizes the spiritual and temporal blessings to be claimed by paying a full tithe.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve teaches that tithing helps the faithful become honest as they overcome their ill-placed desires "for the things of the world."

President Hinckley also shares his testimony of tithing, calling the commandant "a matter of faith."

"I have yet to find a faithful tithe payer who cannot testify that in a very literal and wonderful way the windows of heaven have been opened and the blessings have been poured out upon him or her," President Hinckley said.

With its many downloads and links, the course is interactive and personal. For example, one page in the "Tithes and Offerings" lesson allows visitors to print out their own feelings and experiences with tithing.

Additional lessons focus on using a budget, proven methods for overcoming debt and how to build a reserve for retirement and during times of need. Again, visitors can take advantage of several downloads to help them, say, complete a budget worksheet or estimate their family's debt-to-income ratio.

The lessons also include several optional audio clips from Church leaders, along with rank-and-file members sharing personal stories of provident living.

Liz Sowards is a young mother of four who lost her husband, Steve, to illness several years ago. The Provo, Utah, resident said she has realized the blessings of following divine direction to be prepared financially. The lessons taught in the on-line course reminded her of the blessings that await the obedient.

"What I liked most about the lessons was the prophetic counsel," said Sister Sowards. "Everybody should listen."

E-mail to: jswensen@desnews.com