Tightening the Belt on Take-out

In a previous post, Mindful Money Matters on 1/9/2026, I discussed a variety of ways to reign in expenses in the new year and provided many resources. In that post, I also briefly addressed becoming aware of how much money we are spending on take-out and fast food. We often feed our family in this way when our time is limited. Work schedules and children’s activities tend to dictate a hectic pace. As promised, I am circling back with some suggestions for reducing our reliance on fast food and strategies for having more home-made, quick and easy options for feeding the family. She also rises while it is yet night, And provides food for her household, And a portion for her maidservants. (Proverbs 31:15) In the following verse, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that caring for one’s family, especially in providing necessities, is a basic Christian responsibility. But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. (1 Timothy 5:8) The Bible also dictates that we are responsible managers of God-given blessings. There is desirable treasure, And oil in the dwelling of the wise, But a foolish man squanders it. (Proverbs 21:20) Wise people are good stewards, saving resources like "choice food and oil," while foolish people squander everything on immediate pleasure. The following provides suggestions for being good stewards of our money and still feeding our families well.