One of my favorite topics to teach on over the years has been finances and getting ones financial house in order.  The basics are simple:  get out of debt, live below your means, control your appetites (spending), live within your budget, be an aggressive saver, always tithe, never use credit card debt, and never take a loan out for depreciating items.

60 Minutes just posted several great little 1-2 minute segments / lessons by Dave Ramsey, well known financial expert (a Christian), on these very topics.  View here. I encourage you to refresh yourself in them, and make a plan to follow them if you aren't already doing so. 

With the $700 billion crisis casting a long shadow over our friends south of us (and affecting the whole world), this is a great time to look clear-mindedly about your finances (hopefully, it's not too late).