“If He did it for me… He can do it for you too.”
—Luchana Perez
Financial freedom is more than a goal—it’s a spiritual, emotional, and deeply personal journey. In this powerful testimony, certified financial coach Theresa Bartelle of Bartelle’s Financial Coaching sits down with her very first client, Luchana Perez, to talk about debt, discipline, and divine transformation.
💳 The Reality: Out of Debt 4 Times… but This Time It’s Forever
Luchana was no stranger to paying off debt. In fact, she had done it four times before. But it never stuck.
Why?
“I had only learned the discipline of paying it off—not the heart behind it.”
Like many of us, Luchana was tithing faithfully, but she didn’t understand how to steward the other 90%. She viewed that leftover money as hers to spend freely—until that mindset caught up with her again and again.
🙏 The Turning Point: Stewardship and the Power of Surrender
During her first session with Theresa, something shifted.
They prayed together. They read Scripture. And for the first time, Luchana asked:
“God, have I really given You everything—even my spending?”
That moment changed everything.
Through Theresa’s biblical financial coaching, Luchana realized she didn’t just need a budget—she needed to surrender her mindset. What followed was more than a breakthrough. It was freedom.
📊 The Budget Became a Blessing (Even Though She Hated It at First)
Like most people, Luchana didn’t like the word budget. But once she embraced it—and started using a budgeting app—she discovered something surprising.
“I thought I only had $5 left at the end of the month. I actually had over $1,000.”
For the first time, she saw where her money was going. She learned how to plan for fun, save for vacations, and even set guardrails for her generous heart (and gift-giving tendencies). The budget didn’t restrict her—it freed her.
🌱 The Root, the Wait, and the Work
Throughout Luchana’s journey, three powerful truths kept surfacing:
1. Root
Why do we overspend? Why do we fall back into debt?
“I had to get to the root of my spending—entitlement, impatience, and insecurity.”
2. Wait
So much debt comes from not waiting.
We want the car. The clothes. The vacation. And we want it now.
“I had to relearn that a no today doesn’t mean a no forever.”
3. Work
Freedom doesn’t come easy.
Luchana tracked every penny. She called Theresa when she couldn’t find a dime. She cut back, sacrificed, and made tough choices.
“It’s hard work. But it’s so worth it.”
✝️ Faith + Finances: God Made a Way
Once Luchana began stewarding her finances God’s way, the doors started opening:
✨ She received a promotion she never applied for
✨ Unexpected bonuses came in
✨ Her house sold at the perfect time
✨ Her parents blessed her financially
✨ And best of all—she had peace
“Before, I would’ve wasted the blessing. Now I’m able to steward it.”
💼 Emergency Funds and Layoff Warnings: Why It Matters
Midway through her coaching journey, rumors of layoffs hit Luchana’s job. She was anxious—but prepared.
Thanks to her emergency fund, she wasn’t paralyzed by fear. She could’ve taken a lower-paying job if needed. She was no longer a slave to her income.
“Having options… that’s real freedom.”
💬 Luchana’s 3 Tips for Getting Out of Debt
If you’re on the fence about starting your debt-free journey, here’s her advice:
1. Pray About It
Lay your fears before the Lord. Ask Him to reveal the why behind your struggle.
2. Seek Godly Counsel
“Don’t hold anything back—be honest about your debt. You need someone like Teresa to walk with you.”
3. Stay Committed with Accountability
Having someone in your corner makes all the difference. Be consistent. Be transparent. Don’t try to do it alone.
🧠 Final Thoughts from Teresa Bartel
“Money is paper. But if you don’t control it, it will control you.”
Debt affects more than your bank account. It affects your emotions, your relationships, and your ability to say yes to God’s call on your life.
You don’t have to live paycheck to paycheck. You don’t have to stay in a job you hate. And you don’t have to carry the weight of financial shame any longer.
📞 Ready to Begin Your Journey?
If you’re ready to experience what financial freedom feels like—and want someone who will pray with you, walk with you, and teach you both biblical wisdom and practical tools—reach out to Theresa Bartelle today.
👉 Visit: https://bartellescoaching.com
🎁 Get Your Free Consultation Now
Remember:
✝️ Your identity is not your income.
💳 Debt is not your destiny.
💥 And financial freedom is possible—with God and a plan.
Here's what you can expect from Bartelle's Financial Coaching:
Personalized Guidance: We understand that everyone's financial situation is unique. That's why our coaching adapts to your specific circumstances, ensuring that you receive customized advice and strategies tailored to your needs.
Inclusive and Respectful Environment: No matter your background, financial history, or current situation, you are welcomed here. We're committed to creating an inclusive and respectful space where everyone feels valued and supported.
Results-Oriented Approach: We're not just here to provide advice; we're here to help you achieve tangible results. Our coaching focuses on actionable strategies that lead to lasting change, empowering you to take control of your financial future.
Empowerment at the Core: We believe in empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed decisions and achieve financial success. Our coaching equips you with the skills and confidence to navigate any financial challenge that comes your way.
So whether you're looking to get out of debt, save for a major purchase, or plan for retirement, "Bartelle’s Money Talk" and Bartelle's Financial Coaching are here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to take the first step toward financial freedom? Schedule a free consultation with Theresa Bartelle today and start your journey to a brighter financial future.
Thank you for considering "Bartelle’s Money Talk" and Bartelle's Financial Coaching. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Warm regards,
Johnny and Theresa Bartelle
Founders of Bartelle’s Financial Coaching
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