Saving Time, Energy and Money

One of my favorite times of the week is when I head to the grocery store. Some people find it tedious and time-consuming, but I love being able to scan the aisles and find new and interesting food choices. Wouldn't it be fabulous if we could not only save time and energy when we go to the supermarket, but save some money, too?

Here's one way I've found that takes only a little pre-planning. The Bible says it is wise to be conscientious of your finances and take steps to be careful with all your earnings. "Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds. For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?" (Proverbs 27:23-24). Any little changes we can make in how we use our money will be honoring in God's eyes.

The next time you go to the grocery store, take a piece of paper with you. Using the signs above each aisle as a guide, write down where each of the items you typically purchase are located, in order back through the store. When you get home, either on the computer or a piece of typing paper, list each aisle and its contents, from the front of the store to the back.

Next, use your receipts to add in the regular prices of the food and supplies you buy. When you have these prices in front of you, you'll know in a quick glance what is on sale or what has gone up in price. You'll also be able to see the trends in pricing and you can purchase certain things at different times of the month when they are less expensive. Make a little note to the side if you're using a coupon for an item so you can grab them before you head out the door.

Hang this new list in the kitchen so you can mark down when you run out of something. Also use it as you prepare menus for the week - you'll know exactly where everything is when you need it and you're less likely to forget something from a long recipe. That saves you from making an extra trip on another day.

By developing a system for your shopping, you can breeze through the grocery store, resist impulse buying because you're probably not traveling down every aisle, and your saving tons of money because you've planned things out. Time, energy and money - all saved because you took a little time to be prepared.